- Finding the best startup business bank account is simple with NerdWallet
- Many new businesses are legally required to start a business bank account
- Startup bank accounts often include tools and features designed to keep things simple for new business owners
Finding the best startup business bank account can be a key step towards success if you have just started a new company.
You might just want to use a normal business bank account for your startup. However, many startup accounts designed for new businesses have useful features to help your venture succeed. That’s why NerdWallet has ranked our best startup bank accounts by digging into fees, apps, borrowing options and more besides.
The best business account for your startup will vary depending on your circumstances, so check out the key features of each account you compare in our table below.
Our top 5 start-up business bank accounts
Our best start-up business bank providers
Each of these products may be one of a range offered by the provider. Always check terms & conditions for suitability before applying. Only affiliated products are shown. Other products are available. Read our guide to ratings.
Monzo Lite Business Account
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
NerdWallet's Review Summary
Challenger bank Monzo offers businesses intuitive and efficient app-based banking, making it a great option for new start ups. Features offered by Monzo that might be useful to any business just taking off include round-the-clock customer service, free trials of accounting software and a pots feature that lets customers separate their money. However, some of these features are only included with Monzo’s Pro account, which carries a £9 monthly fee, or the Team account, which is £25 per month.
For further details, read NerdWallet’s Monzo Business Account Review.
Monzo key features:
- Accounts open quickly: New business bank accounts with Monzo are usually open and ready to use on the same day an application goes through.
- Free transactions: Electronic payments within the UK are completely free for Monzo’s business banking customers.
- Customer service: In-app customer support from Monzo is available to business customers with urgent concerns at all hours.
NerdWallet's Pros & Cons
Pros:
- New customers can find free business banking with Monzo’s Lite offering.
- Monzo’s mobile app is one of the best-reviewed mobile banking platforms on the market.
- Businesses can get started very quickly with Monzo, as accounts tend to be open on the same day an application is made.
Cons:
- Monzo has no branches and no telephone banking options, so it might not be best for those who like a human touch.
- Charities and partnerships cannot get an account with Monzo.
- Some perks, like accounting software trials, are locked behind Monzo’s paid tiers.
This product may be one of a range offered by this provider. Always check terms & conditions for suitability before applying.
Virgin Money M Account for Business
- 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
NerdWallet's Review Summary
Startups and businesses with an annual turnover below £1 million can use Virgin Money’s M Account for Business. There are no monthly fees, and business owners can enjoy cashback on debit card purchases, three-month accounting software trials and a free business data insights platform.
For further details, read NerdWallet’s Virgin Money Business Account Review.
Virgin Money key features:
- Transaction costs: Electronic payments are free with a Virgin Money business account.
- Extras: Additional features like free data insights and accounting software trials could enhance your startup.
- FSCS protection: Deposits of up to £85,000 are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme.
NerdWallet's Pros & Cons
Pros:
- There is no monthly fee for the M Account.
- Business owners can get cashback of 0.25% on business debit card purchases.
- Over a third of new Virgin Money business banking customers can access their account on the same day they apply, with average account opening speed sitting at two days.
- Borrowing options including overdrafts and business loans are available through Virgin Money.
Cons:
- Virgin Money’s customer service is not available 24/7.
- A business must have an annual turnover of less than £1 million to open the M Account.
- With no branches in the South of England, Wales or Northern Ireland, customers in these areas will struggle to access some face-to-face services.
This product may be one of a range offered by this provider. Always check terms & conditions for suitability before applying.
The Co-operative Bank Business Bank Account
NerdWallet's Review Summary
There is a lot to like about The Co-operative Bank for startups. The bank offers start-up guidance and other support tools, plus deals on insurance, HR tools and more. The bank also places ethics at the forefront of its mission, so it may appeal strongly to socially conscious new business owners.
For further details, read NerdWallet’s The Co-operative Bank Business Account Review.
The Co-operative Bank key features:
- FSCS protection: Your eligible deposits, up to £85,000 across all of your accounts, are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).
- Borrowing: Account holders can access borrowing through an overdraft, a charge card for expenses, a credit card, or a business loan.
- Account management: Manage your money online, over the phone, via the app or in a branch
NerdWallet's Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Some of the bank’s accounts do not charge a monthly fee or digital transaction fees.
- Customers can manage their accounts online, over the phone, via the mobile app and in a branch.
- Customers can access a business overdraft, credit card, charge card and loan.
Cons:
- Customers do not have access to round-the-clock customer support.
- There are no branches in Northern Ireland.
This product may be one of a range offered by this provider. Always check terms & conditions for suitability before applying.
Barclays Business Account
NerdWallet's Review Summary
This British high-street bank has a specific account for startups, with features including a business community hub, which is intended to help new business owners meet new contacts and grow their ideas. The bank also has branches throughout the UK and offers a variety of borrowing options.
For more details, read NerdWallet’s Barclays Business Account review.
Barclays key features:
- Points of access: Barclays customers can manage their money online, via the app, over the phone, or at a wide choice of Barclays branches.
- Borrowing options: Borrowing options include loans, mortgages and overdrafts.
- FSCS Protection: Eligible deposits up to £85,000 are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).
NerdWallet's Pros & Cons
Pros:
- There are no transaction fees for everyday banking.
- The specialised account for startups includes features such as the Eagle Labs community hub, which could help them to grow and develop.
- Barclays business banking customers get free access to FreshBooks accounting software.
- Barclays has branches in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Cons:
- A Barclays business account will cost £8.50 per month following the end of the 12-month introductory offer of free digital banking.
This product may be one of a range offered by this provider. Always check terms & conditions for suitability before applying.
Tide Business Account – Free
- For registered business accounts: Must be a director of a UK company registered with Companies House.
- For sole trader accounts: Must be a UK-based sole trader or freelancer with a valid UK home address and be registered with HMRC
- For all accounts: you must be aged 18+, have a valid UK phone number and address, and hold a compatible device registered to a UK App or Google Play store
NerdWallet's Review Summary
Customers can choose between four different Tide business bank accounts, including an option with no monthly fees. Open an account through NerdWallet and the usual bank transfer fee of 20p per transaction will be waived for 12 months too.
In addition, Tide offers several tools for managing your business, including point of sale, accounting software and invoicing.
For more information, see NerdWallet’s Tide business account review.
Tide Key Features:
- Special offer: Free bank transfers for 12 months when you apply via NerdWallet.
- Protection: Up to £85,000 of eligible deposits are protected under the Financial Services Compensation Scheme.
- Point of sale: Account holders can take payments in person and online with Tide, which offers a variety of POS (point of sale) solutions.
- Borrowing: Businesses can borrow between £1,000 and £20 million through Tide’s business loans.
NerdWallet's Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Tide offers an account with no monthly fee.
- Free transfers for 12 months when applying through NerdWallet.
- You can open an account in a matter of minutes, although some more complex applications can take a few days to approve.
- Tide offers point of sale capabilities, accounting tools and more to help account holders run their business.
Cons:
- Tide does not offer a business overdraft to customers.
This product may be one of a range offered by this provider. Always check terms & conditions for suitability before applying.
*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 offer period; require a special status, such as a charity account; or have minimum turnover or balance requirements
What is a start-up business bank account?
A startup business bank account is a type of business bank account suitable for a newly created business. Like every standard business bank account, most will normally allow you to:
- transfer money
- receive money
- deposit cash or cheques
- access dedicated customer services
Where they differ is that many of these accounts are particularly tailored to startups, offering low fees, business guidance or even company incorporation services.
There are sometimes eligibility restrictions as these startup business bank accounts might only be available to brand new businesses, or those formed in the last 12 months. There might also be restrictions on annual turnover.
NerdWallet’s rankings have also included some bank accounts not specifically made for new businesses. However, startups are still eligible to apply and may benefit from some account features.
Why new businesses need a business bank account
There are many reasons your startup might need a business bank account, or why it may be better than sticking with your personal bank account. Here are a few to consider:
- Legal requirement: If your startup is a limited company it MUST have a business bank account because it is a separate entity from its owners. This means the company’s money belongs to the company, not the owners. The same rules apply to limited liability partnerships and limited partnerships.
- Terms and conditions: Some personal bank accounts cannot be used for business purposes.
- Tax: Even if not legally required to open a business bank account, your startup will still have tax obligations. A business bank account will allow you to keep your business finances separate from your personal finances, saving you time and stress.
- Account features: Most startup business accounts include tools, software, support and other features designed to help a growing business. If you just decide to stick with a personal bank account, your new business will not benefit from these.
Starting a new business can be a complicated and stressful process, but with benefits like these, opening a startup bank account can remove some of the strain.
Startup bank account features
While basic transactions like transfers, direct debits and standing orders are available for all startup business bank accounts, other features can vary significantly.
Different startup accounts offer features such as:
- a mobile app with 24/7 support
- integration with accounting software
- multi-user access
- invoicing, including tracking and reminders
- expenses management
- instant payment notifications
- fast customer payment systems
- overdrafts
- business support
- virtual office address
- savings ‘pots’ to set aside income for tax
- spending reports and data
- credit building tools
- international transactions
Another feature to consider is the cost of a startup account. Startup business bank accounts are generally low-cost, with many charging no monthly maintenance fee. However, most will charge for some transactions or services.
Another factor to consider is free trial periods. Some accounts will not charge for basic transactions for up to two years, which can be a great way to keep costs down for your new business.
With low costs, free trials and useful features, the right startup business bank account can be invaluable when growing your new business.
How to choose a startup business bank account
Choosing the right startup business bank account is simple with NerdWallet’s ranking system and reviews. But remember to look beyond star ratings, as considering your new business’s needs and what will help you the most is a key factor.
For example, if you are starting your first business and feel anxious about tackling tax and accounting, an account with free accounting software might be a good choice.
If you like doing most of your business banking on your phone or computer, an online-only business bank account could be the best option for your startup. If you prefer dealing with people face-to-face, pick a provider with branches you can easily access.
If your startup business involves taking a lot of cash payments, like a cafe, cleaning business or vending machine operator, consider accounts that offer low fees on deposits. You should always check the fees a provider will charge before signing up for a new bank account, as they can vary significantly.
If your startup will need an injection of capital or a bit of a financial safety net, consider startup business account providers who offer startup business loans or access to an overdraft facility.
Compare start-up business bank accounts
Startup business bank accounts can be a vital product for your new business, leaving you well-equipped to tackle many financial challenges you might face along the way. With so much variety, there is something for every budding business owner, from startup entrepreneurs to striving side hustlers.
But if you did not find what you are looking for here, or your business is not eligible for startup business bank accounts, why not compare all business bank accounts now?
NerdWallet’s Other Business Bank Account Roundups
Start-up business bank account FAQs
To open a start up business account, you will need to show proof of your identity and address, and supply a few details about your business.
The level of information required depends on the provider and your business structure and type, but it might include:
- Proof of identity, such as your full driving licence or valid passport.
- Proof of address, such as a recent utility bill or bank statement.
- Contact details, including phone number and email address.
- Business trading name and contact details.
- Information about your main business activity and if you trade overseas.
- Projected turnover for the next 12 months.
- The number of employees and their employment status.
- Company registration number and tax identification number.
Some start-up business bank accounts currently offer overdraft facilities, subject to approval.
A business overdraft lets you access funds up to a limit, even after the account balance falls to zero, but you will be charged interest on the amount of credit borrowed. You may also be charged business overdraft fees, including an arrangement fee or annual fee, or a penalty if you borrow more than your arranged limit.
To arrange an overdraft, you will need to meet the provider’s eligibility criteria, such as a minimum trading time, and a good credit history for your business and its directors.
Check the fees and terms carefully before you start using an overdraft and consider there may be cheaper ways to borrow money.
The time it takes for applications to be approved can depend on your circumstances. Some online-only providers may offer a decision within just 10 minutes, while for others it could take a number of weeks.
If there are any extra verification checks needed, or if there is an overall increase in applications at a particular time, this may affect how long it takes.
Some business accounts currently offer ‘free’ banking for start ups, and don’t charge a monthly or annual business banking fee. They may, however, charge you for carrying out certain transactions, such as transfers in and out. If your start up is unlikely to require many transactions, this could be a cost-effective option.
If, however, you are likely to make frequent transactions, it may work out as better value to pay a monthly or annual fee if you get some transactions at no extra cost. Other transactions and services such as international payments may still incur a charge, though.
Many business banking providers offer free banking deals to new customers, for an introductory period only. So bear in mind that monthly charges and fees per transaction may kick in once that period expires.
» COMPARE: Free business bank account deals
Yes, you can switch to another business bank account later, and it is probably easier than you think. Once you’ve chosen your new deal and a switch date, if it is a participating provider, the Current Account Switch Service (CASS) automatically transfers across your balance, standing orders and direct debits, before closing the old account.
The switch should take place within just seven business days, but your provider will contact you if there are any delays. If you need an overdraft as part of your switch, this must be agreed and in place with your new provider before the switch.
CASS covers over 50 banks and building societies in the UK but if your old or new provider is not participating in the scheme, ask your new bank how it can help you to switch. If it doesn’t offer a switching service, you may need to run your current business account alongside the new one until you are ready to make the change.
You will need to tell any clients about this change of bank details and update your invoice template, and change stored card details for recurring online payments, but the rest is taken care of.
The benefits of switching can outweigh staying with a provider if you are not happy with increased charges or the level of customer service – or you have seen a better deal that suits your growing business better.
Exactly what you need depends on the provider, but you usually need to show a passport, driving licence or photocard ID as proof of your identity. You will also need to provide confirmation of your UK address, usually using a recent bank statement, mortgage statement, council tax bill or utility bill.
You must also confirm other details, including your legal name, nationality, recent addresses, and your contact information, including your phone number and email address. This applies to each owner, director or partner of the business. Your bank will carry out similar checks on anyone authorised to operate your account, or who owns or controls more than a certain percentage of business shares or voting rights.
When you apply, you need to supply the business name and address, the date it was started, company registration number if it is a limited company or partnership, along with details of any other business bank accounts you hold.
You may also need to provide some financial information about your business, including the main business activity, number of employees, sources of income and investment, expected turnover in the next 12 months and tax status.
You will also be asked how much money you expect to pay into the account in the next 12 months, and how frequent transactions will be.
It depends on the provider. Some banks will generally let you make or receive international payments in a number of currencies. You can do this online, over the phone, or you may need to go into a branch. You will need to give a reference code, such as a BIC, SWIFT or IBAN, which you should be able to find on your bank statement or by logging in to your online account.
Before you make the transfer, check the bank’s upfront transaction and commission fees, and the exchange rate it is charging.
If international transfers are likely to be regular, you may want to consider an account plan that offers free international payments. However, there will usually be a limit set and a foreign exchange charge may still apply.
If you are a start up, you can access government support if you need advice, want help with growing your business, or are worried about debt.
- There are small business grants available to help growing businesses, depending on your region and industry.
- New and growing businesses can apply for a government-backed start up loan of £500 to £25,000, with up to 12 months of free mentoring. (This is a personal loan.)
- The Recovery Loan Scheme is a government-backed scheme helping small businesses access finance to survive and grow, running until 30 June 2024.
- If your company works on innovative projects in science and technology that makes advances in the field, you may be eligible for research and development tax relief.
- You can call a national business support helpline to get free support and advice, and learn about possible sources of finance. There are separate helplines for businesses in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
- If your business took part in the Bounce Back Loan Scheme, your lender may have contacted you about Pay As You Grow. This offers extensions to loan terms, periods of reduced payment and repayment holidays, if needed.
If you are worried about business debt, the British Business Bank offers information about how to manage debt and where to get help in your region.
» COMPARE: Best business loans
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