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Published 26 March 2024
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Best Business Bank Accounts UK March 2024

Finding the right business bank account for your organisation can help transform its finances. But where should you start? Compare the pros and cons of NerdWallet’s top 10 best business accounts below.

Many or all of the products and brands we promote and feature including our ‘Partner Spotlights’ are from our partners who compensate us. However, this does not influence our editorial opinion found in articles, reviews and our ‘Best’ tables. Our opinion is our own. Read more on our methodology here.

A business bank account is a current account designed for businesses, including sole traders, limited companies, partnerships and not-for-profit organisations – though some banks don’t cover all types of businesses.

There are many different accounts available, so it is important to pick the best business bank account for your needs. Finding the best business bank account for you doesn’t have to be difficult.

We’ve picked our top 10 business bank accounts based on our own research of the market as well as what business owners say are the most important criteria when searching for a business account. That includes monthly fees, easy account access and protection through the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).

Nerdwallet Logo Partner Spotlight

Virgin M Account for Business

For businesses with a turnover of less than £1million, the M Account for Business gives you free day-to-day online business banking for all your everyday needs.

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Top 10 Best Business Bank Accounts

This selection of brands has been reviewed and evaluated by Nerdwallet, but others are available in the UK market. Find out what we mean when we say ‘best’, why we are comfortable using it, and an in-depth explanation of Nerdwallet UK’s review methodology.

Provider

NerdWallet’s Rating

Monthly Fee

UK Card Purchase Fees

UK Bank Transfer Fees

 
4.8 / 5
Free
Free
Free
4.7 / 5
Free
Free
Free
4.7 / 5
Free
Free
From free
4.4 / 5
Free for 12 months
Free
Free
4.4 / 5
Free for 12 months
Free
Free
4.3 / 5
Free for 30 months
Free for 30 months
Free for 30 months

TSB
4.3 / 5
Free for 30 months
Free
From free
4.2 / 5
Free
Free
From free
4.2 / 5
Free for 12 months
Free
Free
4.2 / 5
Free for 12 months
Free
100 electronic payments out free per month

Important Information: Our Reviews, Star Ratings and Editor’s Picks do not consider the product provider’s lending rates and therefore do not reflect how much it costs to borrow from the reviewed brand. Always compare rates from other providers when considering any type of borrowing.

Top 10 Best Business Account Providers

This top 10 is from 23 business bank accounts that NerdWallet evaluated and reviewed. Others are available. Find out how we use ‘best’ and our guide to ratings.

Monzo Lite Business Account

4.8 NerdWallet's ratings

Free

Free

Free

n/a

  • Available to sole traders, or the director of a registered limited company by shares (Ltd)
  • Must be based in the UK
Eligibility Criteria
  • Available to sole traders, or the director of a registered limited company by shares (Ltd)
  • Must be based in the UK

This product may be one of a range offered by this provider. Always check terms & conditions for suitability before applying.

NERDWALLET’S REVIEW SUMMARY

Ideal for anyone just starting out, Monzo Business makes it easy for you to set up a new account and start managing your money. 

Monzo offers an array of business banking services from accounting software integration to ‘tax pots’. Just remember that you won’t have access to its full range of features unless you pay a monthly fee for its Pro account. For further details, read NerdWallet’s Monzo Business Account Review.

Monzo key features:

  • Quick set-up: Most customers get an account on the same day, applying via the phone app.
  • FSCS protection: Deposits of up to £85,000 are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme.
  • Free UK transfers: Monzo offers free UK transfers for its business banking customers.
  • 24/7 customer support: You can contact Monzo’s in-app customer support around the clock with urgent concerns. 
Monthly feeFree
Transaction feesYes (cash deposits, plus ATM withdrawals outside EEA)
Account managementOnline and via the mobile app
FSCS protectionYes
Average set-up timeSame day
Cash depositsYes (£1 at PayPoint)
Cheque depositsYes (free by post)
Pros and cons

Pros:

  • There is a free business account available (Monzo Business Lite). 
  • Accounts can be accessed online or via Monzo’s mobile app.
  • You may be able to get access to online banking on the same day as you apply.

Cons:

  • It is not possible to manage the account over the phone or at a branch.
  • Business accounts are not available to charities or partnerships.

Starling Bank Business Account

4.7 NerdWallet's ratings

Free

Free

Free

n/a

  • Must be a Limited Company or LLP registered at Companies House. General partnerships or charities that aren’t registered as a Limited Company aren’t supported yet
  • All directors with access to the account must be UK residents
Eligibility Criteria
  • Must be a Limited Company or LLP registered at Companies House. General partnerships or charities that aren’t registered as a Limited Company aren’t supported yet
  • All directors with access to the account must be UK residents

This product may be one of a range offered by this provider. Always check terms & conditions for suitability before applying.

NERDWALLET'S REVIEW SUMMARY

Starling has a free business bank account available to sole traders, limited companies and limited liability partnerships with no fees for basic transactions. Its apps have some of the best reviews in the banking market, which, coupled with 24/7 customer service, means it could be suitable for anyone looking for a cheap, easy-to-use business account.

Starling key features:

  • No monthly fees: There is no monthly fee for Starling’s business bank account.
  • Transactions: Everyday UK payments, such as Faster Payments, direct debits and standing orders, are free.
  • FSCS protection: Deposits of up to £85,000 are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme. 
Monthly feeFree
Transaction feesNo for Faster Payments, direct debits and standing orders, but fees may apply for other transactions
Account managementOnline and via the mobile app
FSCS protectionYes
Average set-up timeOne day (95% same day)
Cash depositsYes (Post Office)
Cheque depositsYes (free by post)
Pros and cons

Pros:

  • The standard Starling business account comes with no monthly fee.
  • You can make Faster Payments, direct debits and standing orders in the UK for free.
  • Eligible deposits are covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).

Cons:

  • Some account features are only available through its Business Toolkit, which costs £7 a month.
  • You cannot manage your account over the phone or at a branch.
  • Cash deposits at the Post Office carry a £3 minimum fee.

Virgin Money M Account for Business

4.7 NerdWallet's ratings

Free

Free

From free

n/a

  • Available for eligible businesses with up to £1m annual turnover
  • Must be based and operated in the UK (excluding Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Northern Ireland)
  • All owners, directors, senior managers and account signatories must be over 18 years old
Eligibility Criteria
  • Available for eligible businesses with up to £1m annual turnover
  • Must be based and operated in the UK (excluding Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Northern Ireland)
  • All owners, directors, senior managers and account signatories must be over 18 years old

This product may be one of a range offered by this provider. Always check terms & conditions for suitability before applying.

NERDWALLET’S REVIEW SUMMARY

Virgin Money has a number of accounts to choose from, so there is likely to be something to suit your needs if your business is based in Great Britain.

Its M Account for Business has no monthly fees for start ups and small businesses with an annual turnover of less than £1 million. You can get cashback on debit card purchases and also apply for an overdraft. For further details, read NerdWallet’s Virgin Money Business Account Review.

Virgin Money key features:

  • Account perks: There are a number of account perks, such as cashback when using your business debit card, and discounts with selected retailers and merchants. 
  • FSCS protection: Deposits of up to £85,000 are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme.
  • Charities: The bank has dedicated current accounts for charities and does not charge fees for every day banking if the charity has less than £1 million turnover a year.
Monthly feeFree
Transaction feesNo, for day-to-day banking. Yes, for other transactions
Account managementAt a branch, via the mobile app, online and over the phone
FSCS protectionYes
Average set-up time4 days
Cash depositsYes (90p per £100)
Cheque depositsYes (free via app)
Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Virgin Money offers a free business account, M Account for Business.
  • Eligible deposits of up to £85,000 will be protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).
  • Virgin Money has a current account for charities, with no fees for everyday banking for charities with a turnover of less than £1 million a year.

Cons:

  • Although Virgin Money offers 24-hour self-service over the phone, it does not offer 24/7 customer support.
  • Virgin Money’s completely free M Account is only available for businesses with an annual turnover of less than £1 million.

HSBC Kinetic Current Account

4.4 NerdWallet's ratings

Free for 12 months

Free

Free

n/a

  • You are the sole trader, or sole director and sole shareholder of the limited company
  • Must be a tax resident in the UK but not the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man
  • Maximum annual turnover of £6.5M
Eligibility Criteria
  • You are the sole trader, or sole director and sole shareholder of the limited company
  • Must be a tax resident in the UK but not the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man
  • Maximum annual turnover of £6.5M

This product may be one of a range offered by this provider. Always check terms & conditions for suitability before applying.

NERDWALLET’S REVIEW SUMMARY

HSBC Kinetic is an app-based business bank account. The account is designed for sole traders and sole directors or those working as shareholders of a limited company. It combines many of the benefits of an online-only business account (its app is one of the best reviewed) with the advantages of a traditional bank.

HSBC Kinetic key features:

  • Introductory offer: There is no monthly maintenance fee for the first 12 months. 
  • Transactions: There are no charges for everyday banking transactions including direct debits, standing orders and other payments.
  • Access to other banking facilities: Eligible customers can apply for a business overdraft or credit card. Similarly, you can apply for a HSBC Kinetic Small Business Loan worth between £1,000 and £10,000.
  • FSCS protection: Deposits up to £85,000 are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).
Monthly fee£6.50 (after 12-month free period)
Transaction feesNo for direct debits, standing orders and other payments. Yes for other transactions
Account managementOnline, over the phone, in a branch and via the mobile app
FSCS protectionYes
Average set-up time2 days
Cash depositsYes (at a branch and Post Office)
Cheque depositsYes (via the app, at a branch or Post Office)
Pros and cons

Pros:

  • HSBC Kinetic Current Account offers free direct debits, standing orders and other payments.
  • Credit facilities: You may be able to access a business overdraft, credit card or the specific HSBC Kinetic small business loan.
  • Eligible deposits are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).

Cons:

  • After the 12-month maintenance-fee-free period, HSBC Kinetic costs £6.50 a month.
  • While you can make international payments at a branch and over the phone, you cannot make them on the app.
  • HSBC Kinetic Current Account is only available to sole traders and limited companies with just one director who is the sole shareholder, and a maximum annual turnover of up to £6.5 million.

Bank of Scotland Small Business Bank Account

4.4 NerdWallet's ratings

Free for 12 months

Free

Free

12 months’ free day-to-day business banking for new businesses

  • Must be a sole trader, partner or company director and be aged 18 or over
  • Must have an annual turnover of less than £25m
  • Must not already have a Bank of Scotland business account for this business
  • A Guarantee may be required for Limited Companies and Limited Liability Partnerships
Eligibility Criteria
  • Must be a sole trader, partner or company director and be aged 18 or over
  • Must have an annual turnover of less than £25m
  • Must not already have a Bank of Scotland business account for this business
  • A Guarantee may be required for Limited Companies and Limited Liability Partnerships

This product may be one of a range offered by this provider. Always check terms & conditions for suitability before applying.

NERDWALLET’S REVIEW SUMMARY

Bank of Scotland, part of Lloyds Banking Group since 2009, has a selection of current accounts for a diverse range of businesses – from start ups and larger businesses to professional practices and charities – you’ll have access to a selection of services, including accounting software and lending facilities. For more details, see NerdWallet’s Bank of Scotland review.

Bank of Scotland key features: 

  • Introductory offers: New customers pay no monthly fees for the first 12 months, in addition to free access to Bank of Scotland’s in-built accounting software.
  • Branch access: With a network of branches in Scotland, you can manage your account in person as well as over the phone, online or via the app.
  • Business support: Business account holders will have access to a UK-based management team.
  • FSCS protection: Deposits up to £85,000 are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).
Monthly fee£8.50
Transaction feesYes (for certain transactions, depending on tariff)
Account managementOnline, over the phone, in a branch and via the mobile app
FSCS protectionYes
Average set-up time7 days
Cash depositsYes
Cheque depositsYes
Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Introductory period of 12 months with no monthly maintenance fee or transaction fees for certain transactions for new customers.
  • The account can be managed via the mobile app, online or over the phone.
  • Eligible deposits up to £85,000 are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).
  • Access to a UK-based business management team.

Cons:

  • There is an £8.50 monthly fee after the introductory fee-free period.
  • With only one branch outside Scotland, Bank of Scotland may not be best suited to those who don’t reside there and are looking for face-to-face support, though you don’t have to be based in Scotland to apply.
  • It takes, on average, seven days to open an account.

The Co-operative Bank Directplus Business Account

4.3 NerdWallet's ratings

Free for 30 months

Free for 30 months

Free for 30 months

Free everyday business banking for first 30 months + free access to the Go Get Paid app

  • Must be aged 18 or over
  • Must be a UK resident with a business address in the UK
  • Must be either a Sole trader or partnership, Limited liability partnership, Limited company
Eligibility Criteria
  • Must be aged 18 or over
  • Must be a UK resident with a business address in the UK
  • Must be either a Sole trader or partnership, Limited liability partnership, Limited company

This product may be one of a range offered by this provider. Always check terms & conditions for suitability before applying.

NERDWALLET’S REVIEW SUMMARY

Ethical and sustainable practices are key to the bank so if these issues are important to your business, you may want to consider one of its accounts. What’s more, there are multiple accounts to choose from so there is likely to be something specific to suit your needs.

The Co-operative Bank key features:

  • Range of accounts: The Co-op Bank offers six business accounts, so there is an option suitable for almost every business type, including charities.
  • FSCS protection: Your eligible deposits, up to £85,000 across all of your accounts, are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).
  • Access to overdraft and credit facilities: With a Co-op business account, you can apply for an arranged overdraft, a charge card for expenses, a credit card, and a variable rate business loan.
  • Customer support options: The account can be managed online, over the phone, via the app and at a branch.
  • Credit facilities: Business overdrafts, credit cards, charge cards and loans are available.
Monthly feeFree
Transaction feesNo
Account managementOnline, over the phone, in a branch and via the mobile app
FSCS protectionYes
Average set-up time14 days
Cash depositsYes (£1,000 free a month, then 80p per £100)
Cheque depositsYes (25 free a month, then 75p per cheque)
Pros and cons

Pros:

  • The Co-operative Bank offers multiple accounts with no monthly service fee. 
  • Eligible deposits of up to £85,000 are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).
  • You can manage your business account online, over the phone, via the mobile app and in a branch.
  • You can apply for a business overdraft, credit card, charge card and loan.

Cons:

  • The Co-operative Bank says that it can take, on average, 14 days to open an account.
  • 24/7 customer service is not available.
  • There are no branches in Northern Ireland.

TSB Business Plus Account

4.3 NerdWallet's ratings

Free for 30 months

Free

From free

30 months of free Business Banking when you switch to TSB

  • Your business must be registered in the UK
  • Must be 18 years or over
Eligibility Criteria
  • Your business must be registered in the UK
  • Must be 18 years or over

This product may be one of a range offered by this provider. Always check terms & conditions for suitability before applying.

NERDWALLET’S REVIEW SUMMARY

TSB is an established UK high street bank offering business banking to sole traders, general partnerships and private limited businesses. Your business must be registered in the UK.

The bank offers one everyday bank account for new business customers. Called the Business Plus Account, there is a monthly tariff (£5 per month) and some transaction fees after an introductory 30-month, fee-free period. For further details, see NerdWallet’s TSB Business Account Review.

TSB key features:

  • Physical branches: TSB operates a network of branches across Scotland, England and Wales.
  • 30 months’ fee-free: TSB’s 30-month offering is competitive since other banks tend to offer between 12 and 24 months only.
  • Deposit cash and cheques: You can deposit cash and cheques into your Business Plus account via a branch or at any Post Office.
  • Payment services app: Business Plus customers can access the Revenu app free for 12 months.
  • FSCS protection: Eligible deposits up to £85,000 are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).
Monthly fee£5 after 30-month fee-free period (waived if average monthly account balance is £10,000 or more over a charging period)
Transaction feesYes, for some transactions, after 30-month fee-free period
Account managementOnline, app, phone, branch
FSCS protectionYes
Average set-up time16 days
Cash depositsYes
Cheque depositsYes
Pros and cons

Pros:

  • All new business customers benefit from 30 months’ free everyday banking.
  • The account can be managed online, via the app, over the phone or at a branch.
  • Eligible deposits of up to £85,000 are protected by the FSCS.
  • There are branches in England, Wales and Scotland for face-to-face support.
  • Business Plus customers can get the payment services app Revenu free for 12 months.

Cons:

  • While it is possible for customers in Northern Ireland to open a TSB account, there are no TSB branches there.
  • Once the 30-month fee-free period is over, the account will be subject to a £5 monthly fee (for accounts under £10,000), as well as some transaction charges.
  • Customer support is not available 24/7 except for an automated chat service, so any urgent queries can only be answered via the chat’s advisers from 8am to 5.30pm on weekdays or by phone from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday and 9am to 2pm on Saturdays.
  • Average set-up time of 16 days is among the slowest for business bank account providers.

Allica Bank Business Rewards Account

4.2 NerdWallet's ratings

Free

Free

From free

Up to 1.5% cashback

  • For UK-based businesses only
  • Must have been trading for at least 12 months
  • Must have a minimum estimated annual turnover of £500k or at least 5 employees to open a Business Rewards Account

This product may be one of a range offered by this provider. Always check terms & conditions for suitability before applying.

NERDWALLET’S REVIEW SUMMARY

With a single product – its Business Rewards Account – Allica Bank is targeting established small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The account carries no monthly fees and allows free bank payments. It could be of particular interest to those looking to earn interest on savings, thanks to dedicated rewards features.

For more details, read NerdWallet’s Allica Bank Business Account review.

Allica Bank key features:

  • Instant access savings pot: You can earn 4.33% AER on business savings, as well as depositing or withdrawing from these at any time.
  • Cashback on eligible purchases: Earn 1% cashback on eligible monthly debit card aggregate purchases up to £10,000, and 1.5% on monthly aggregate purchases above £10,000. Aggregate purchases are when all the smaller sums you’ve spent are added together.
  • FSCS protection: Eligible deposits up to £85,000 are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).
Monthly feeFree
Transaction feesNo
Account managementOnline and via the mobile app
FSCS protectionYes
Average set-up timeThree to five days
Cash depositsNo
Cheque depositsNo
Pros and cons

Pros:

  • There are no transaction fees for incoming or outgoing bank payments or card payments, or for outgoing direct debits.
  • Allica Bank’s business banking customers in England and Scotland have access to local relationship managers who can provide tailored expertise.
  • Each Business Rewards Account provides an instant access savings pot with 4.33% AER.
  • Cashback of 1% offered  (and 1.5% once you spend £10,000 a month) on eligible purchases using the Business Rewards Account debit card.

Cons:

  • It isn’t possible to deposit cash or cheques into the Business Rewards Account.
  • While Allica Bank’s customer service team is based in the UK, it doesn’t offer 24/7 customer support.
  • It’s only possible to manage your account online or via the app, not over the phone.
  • It isn’t possible to send money outside the UK with this account.

HSBC Small Business Banking Account

4.2 NerdWallet's ratings

Free for 12 months

Free

Free

n/a

  • For small enterprises (including not-for-profits) with borrowing needs of up to £100k
  • Must be a tax resident in the UK but not the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man
    • Not available for sole trader or single director shareholder businesses
Eligibility Criteria
  • For small enterprises (including not-for-profits) with borrowing needs of up to £100k
  • Must be a tax resident in the UK but not the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man
    • Not available for sole trader or single director shareholder businesses

This product may be one of a range offered by this provider. Always check terms & conditions for suitability before applying.

NERDWALLET’S REVIEW SUMMARY

HSBC offers a range of business accounts for different needs so it is likely you’ll be able to find an account that suits you and your business. These options are separate from HSBC Kinetic, which has its own dedicated app.

All of the HSBC business accounts provide free basic banking transactions, such as direct debits, standing orders and other payments. However, there will be a monthly fee once the 12-month free period (if applicable) ends.

HSBC key features:

  • Free introductory offer: New business customers will benefit from 12 months’ free banking.
  • Transactions: Everyday banking transactions are free with an HSBC business account.
  • Account access: You can benefit from banking at a branch, as well as managing your account on the app, online or over the phone.
  • Credit facilities: Business overdrafts, credit cards or loans may be available through HSBC.
  • FSCS protection: Deposits of up to £85,000 are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme.
Monthly fee£8 (after 12-month free period)
Transaction feesNo for basic payments, yes for deposits and other transactions (after free period)
Account managementOnline, via the app, over the phone and at a branch
FSCS protectionYes
Average set-up time5.4 days
Cash depositsYes (at branch and Post Office)
Cheque depositsYes (at branch and Post Office)
Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Both the HSBC small business banking account and business banking account come with an introductory offer of 12 months of free banking for new customers, as well as free daily transactions.
  • Accounts can be accessed online, via a mobile app, over the phone or at a branch.
  • Everyday banking transactions, such as direct debits, standing orders and other payments, are free with HSBC business accounts.
  • Eligible deposits are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).
  • You may be able to access a business overdraft, credit card or loan through HSBC.

Cons:

  • All of HSBC’s business accounts have a monthly maintenance fee after any introductory period has ended (and its charity account charges a monthly fee as soon as you open an account).
  • HSBC does not offer 24/7 customer service.
  • HSBC says it takes on average 5.4 days to open a business bank account.

Lloyds Bank Small Businesses and Start-ups Account

4.2 NerdWallet's ratings

Free for 12 months

Free

100 electronic payments out free per month

12 months’ free day-to-day business banking for new business start ups and switchers

  • To qualify for this account you need to be a sole trader, partner or company director and be aged 18 or over
  • You must have a turnover of less than £25m
  • Must not already have a Lloyds Bank business account for this business
Eligibility Criteria
  • To qualify for this account you need to be a sole trader, partner or company director and be aged 18 or over
  • You must have a turnover of less than £25m
  • Must not already have a Lloyds Bank business account for this business

This product may be one of a range offered by this provider. Always check terms & conditions for suitability before applying.

NERDWALLET REVIEW SUMMARY

Lloyds Bank has a high street presence across England and Wales. There are a range of  business bank accounts for start ups and small businesses with various options depending on your turnover. There is also a community bank account for schools and non-profit organisations.

The business account offers a 12-month period with no monthly maintenance fee, after which there is an £8.50 monthly fee as well as various transaction fees. For more details, see NerdWallet’s Lloyds Bank Business Bank Account review.

Lloyds Bank key features:

  • Access to credit facilities: As a business bank account holder, you can apply for a range of credit facilities, including overdrafts, credit cards and business loans.
  • Multiple access points: You can manage your account at a branch, via the mobile app, online, as well as over the phone. Lloyds Bank has branches in England and Wales.
  • Community accounts: Lloyds offers community accounts for schools, credit unions and non-profit organisations.
  • FSCS protection: Eligible deposits up to £85,000 are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).
Monthly fee£8.50
Transaction feesYes
Account managementOnline, over the phone, in a branch and via the mobile app
FSCS protectionYes
Average set-up time7 days
Cash depositsYes
Cheque depositsYes
Pros and cons

Pros:

  • You can access the account online, via the mobile app, over the phone and at a branch in England and Wales.
  • Credit facilities, including overdrafts, credit cards and business loans, are available.
  • Eligible deposits of up to £85,000 are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).
  • Schools, credit unions and not-for-profit organisations can open a community account.

Cons:

  • Its business account is only free for an introductory 12-month period.
  • There are no Lloyds Bank branches in Scotland or Northern Ireland.
  • Some transaction fees apply from the moment accounts are opened, including outbound electronic payments beyond £100 per month and charges for using cash or cheques.

The pros and cons featured with each brand are chosen by us based on a combination of our expert, research-based opinions and an exclusive survey of UK business owners and decision-makers. The survey identified the business product features that people felt were most important. There are other pros and cons that should be taken into account before considering a financial product. Information was correct at the time of publication but may have changed since.

Nerdwallet Survey: December 2022

Top 10 Business Bank Accounts: Summary

This selection of brands has been reviewed and evaluated by Nerdwallet, but others are available in the UK market. Find out what we mean when we say ‘best’, why we are comfortable using it, and an in-depth explanation of Nerdwallet UK’s review methodology.

ProviderStar ratingNo. of accountsFree account available?*
Monzo2Yes
Starling4Yes
Virgin Money4Yes
HSBC Kinetic1No
Bank of Scotland7No
The Co-operative Bank6Yes
TSB1No
Allica Bank1Yes
HSBC6No
Lloyds Bank6No

Important Information: Our Reviews, Star Ratings and Editor’s Picks do not consider the product provider’s lending rates and therefore do not reflect how much it costs to borrow from the reviewed brand. Always compare rates from other providers when considering any type of borrowing.

*We have defined free accounts as ones that do not charge a monthly or annual fee. This definition does not include business bank accounts that offer a fee-free introductory period; require a special status, such as a charity account; or have minimum turnover or balance requirements.

How business current accounts work

Business current accounts operate in a similar way to personal current accounts. Generally speaking, you can withdraw or deposit cash and make payments using a debit card, whether you’re shopping online or in a store. You can also accept incoming payments, transfer money to others, and set up standing orders or direct debits. 

There are many options available, from online only to those with a high street presence, and from basic accounts to those with more complex add-ons. Many providers offer a free account as well as a paid one but, whichever you pick, you’ll likely be charged transaction fees of some sort. Below is a guide to what you should bear in mind when choosing.

Choosing a business bank account

Consider what type of business bank account you need and whether you want an online business account, a personal experience or a combination of the two. Then compare your business bank account options, taking the following factors into account.

Business bank account features

Business Bank Account Methodology

NerdWallet evaluated and reviewed 23 business bank accounts from high street and digital-only banks. Collectively, these accounts represent the largest banks by assets and internet search traffic, along with notable or emerging players in the industry.

We considered more than 10 data points for each account, based on the criteria that matter most to users, scoring them on fees, accessibility and customer service, among other factors. This information was gathered from each financial institution’s website and company representatives. In addition, data is collected regularly and reviewed by our editorial team for consistency and accuracy.

Using the same data across all products and features we were able to create star ratings presented on a scale of one to five stars, where a one-star score represents ‘poor’ and a five-star score represents ‘excellent’.    

Frequently asked questions about business bank accounts in UK

How do I open a business bank account?

What you need to do to open a business bank account in the UK will vary depending on the account provider.

You can usually apply in one of the following ways:

  • In a branch: Talk in person with a member of staff before applying.
  • Online via the provider’s website: Apply from anywhere, and you could open an account on the same day.

Through a provider’s mobile app: Set up mobile banking and manage your account on your phone as soon as it’s open without having to wait for your card and account details in the post.

Who can open a business bank account?

Sole traders can open a business bank account. Providers may offer you a specific sole trader account or a standard business account.

If you run a limited company or a limited liability partnership, no matter its size, you are likely to be able to open a business bank account.

Charities, clubs and societies may be able to open a business account. Eligibility is likely to vary between providers, so it’s worth shopping around if you’re looking to open a bank account for a not-for-profit organisation.

Some business bank accounts have strict eligibility criteria, such as minimum or maximum turnover or trading history. Providers may also have restrictions on which business structures and industries can open an account, so it’s a good idea to look through the terms of an account to make sure you’re eligible before applying.

Do I legally need a UK business bank account?

Whether you legally need a business bank account depends on the structure of your business.

Limited companies and limited liability partnerships (LLPs) should open a business current account to manage their money and keep business and personal funds separate.

This is because your business is a separate legal entity to you, so you must have a duty to keep its finances away from your own. One of the ways to do this is by using a business bank account.

Not-for-profit organisations such as charities may find it useful to have a separate business account to manage their finances and keep accurate records of income and expenditure.

Sole traders can also open business bank accounts, though it’s not a requirement; sole traders can also use a personal account for their business.

What is required to open a business bank account?

Along with personal ID, proof of your residential address, and proof of your business address, you may also be asked to show evidence of your annual turnover or estimated income, such as your previous tax return or your business plan.

How long does it take to open a business bank account?

It can take anything from just a few minutes to a few weeks to open a business current account. It depends on the provider, and how long it takes to complete its checks.

Review methodology

At NerdWallet UK, we base our reviews and our ‘Best’ pages on the results of surveys we undertook about what was important to people who use these products. This allows us to look at products impartially of any commercial arrangements we have and fairly rate the products on the same set of criteria.

Best means our ‘Best’ and is based only on what products we have aligned to our surveys, which form the basis of our reviews and ratings. This means that there will be other products on the market that we have not included in our ‘Best’ pages. Best does not mean it’s best for you, nor does it mean the ‘cheapest’.

Our reviews may display lenders’ rates. This additional information has not been included in our evaluations but is still very important when choosing a product. Rates offered can depend on circumstances, amount and term. Always check details before proceeding with any financial product.

Product details reflect the information that was available at that time but may have changed since. We strive to give you a review on as many products as possible, but there will be products not included on the market. The review is our opinion, but it does not constitute advice, recommendation or suitability for your financial circumstances.

You can view our full review methodology here.

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    6 Benefits of a Business Bank Account

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    Why choose an online business bank account?

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    Online business bank accounts are inexpensive, convenient and easy to use. While they can differ from more traditional options, online accounts may offer extra services or functions that you won’t find at the typical high street bank.

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