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You can use a start-up business bank account for all the essentials you would expect when running a business, such as paying bills and checking statements. But you can also access time-saving tools and support for your business, such as integrated accounting and direct invoicing.
The main benefit of a business bank account is that you can separate your personal and business finances. This can make life easier when it comes to accounting and expenses, and is important if you run a limited company.
When choosing the best start-up business bank account for you, you’ll want to consider the features and functionality on offer. Are you happy with app-based access, or do you want a branch to visit if you need to? Is there a free business banking period and business support to help grow your start up?
Use our table to compare offers from business account providers, including fees charged for card purchases and bank transfers, if there is a monthly or annual charge, and if there is access to an overdraft.
Top 10 start-up business bank accounts
Top 10 start-up business bank accounts
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.
Virgin Money M Account for Business
Free
Free
From free
3 months’ free QuickBooks or Xero
- 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
Start ups and businesses with 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 start up.
- 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.
- 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 three 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 in order 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.
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 £5 monthly fee.
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.
This product may be one of a range offered by this provider. Always check terms & conditions for suitability before applying.
Starling Bank Business Account
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
NerdWallet's Review Summary
This free business account from Starling is available to start ups and includes several features attractive to a brand-new business. These include no fees for basic transactions, all-hours customer service and a high-scoring mobile app. There are also paid extras, like the £7 per month Business Toolkit, which adds tax and invoicing capabilities.
Starling key features:
- No monthly fees: Starling’s basic business account has no monthly fee.
- Transaction fees: Start ups that sign up with Starling will be able to make Faster Payments, direct debits and standing orders for no cost within the UK.
- FSCS protection: Deposits of up to £85,000 are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme.
NerdWallet's Pros & Cons
Pros:
- A basic Starling account carries no maintenance fee.
- Everyday transactions are free for business owners who have a Starling account
- On average, it takes one day to open a Starling business bank account.
- Starling has one of the best-received business banking apps out there.
Cons:
- For some features, business owners will need to pay the £7 per month cost for the Business Toolkit.
- Account holders cannot manage their money over the phone or in a branch.
- It costs a minimum of £3 to deposit cash into your account and you must do so at the Post Office.
The Co-operative Bank Business Current Account
Free
Free
Free
Free everyday digital business banking + access to selected Clover payment terminals for £1 a month*
- Must be aged 18 or over
- Must be a UK resident with a business address in the UK
- Must be sole trader or Limited company that is owned or controlled by one person
NerdWallet's Review Summary
There is a lot to like from The Co-Operative Bank for start ups. 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:
- Account options: Business owners can choose from six different current account options.
- 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 variable rate 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:
- It takes an average of 13 days to open an account with The Co-Operative Bank. This is significantly slower than most of the competition.
- 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.
HSBC Kinetic Current Account
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
NerdWallet's Review Summary
Start ups headed by sole traders and sole directors might be interested in HSBC Kinetic. The account can be managed through one of the best apps on the market, is backed by a traditional bank and includes features such as simple international payments and cash-flow insights.
HSBC Kinetic key features:
- Transactions fees: Direct debits, standing orders and other electronic payments are free.
- Borrowing: Borrowing options, such as overdrafts, credit cards and loans are accessible through a Kinetic account.
- FSCS protection: Deposits up to £85,000 are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).
NerdWallet's Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Simple electronic transactions cost nothing to Kinetic account holders.
- With loans, credit cards and overdrafts in the offing, there are several borrowing options available with Kinetic.
- Most Kinetic accounts are opened within 48 hours of application, according to HSBC.
Cons:
- After a fee-free year, accounts cost £6.50 per month.
- This account is only for sole traders and limited companies with just one director who is the sole shareholder. Additionally, the maximum annual turnover cannot exceed £6.5 million.
Barclays Business Account
Free for 12 months
Free
Free
Free invoicing and accounting software
- Must have an annual turnover between £400k- £6.5m
- Must have a straightforward and clearly defined ownership structure
- Must be at least 18 years old and be based and operate in the UK – including business owners
NerdWallet's Review Summary
This British high-street bank has a specific account for start ups, 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 start ups 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.
- The average account opening time for a business account with Barclays is quite long at seven days, while there could even be a 48-day wait for some customers.
This product may be one of a range offered by this provider. Always check terms & conditions for suitability before applying.
HSBC Small Business Banking Account
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
NerdWallet's Review Summary
Aside from its Kinetic offering, which NerdWallet has reviewed separately, HSBC’s offering for start ups includes an account specially tailored for small businesses. Perks include access to borrowing, free simple electronic transactions and numerous ways to access your account.
HSBC key features:
- Introductory offer: New business customers get 12 months of free banking.
- Transaction fees: Everyday banking transactions are free for HSBC business banking customers.
- Borrowing: Account holders can easily apply for business overdrafts, credit cards or loans.
- 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.
NerdWallet's Pros & Cons
Pros:
- The introductory offer for customers who sign up for the small business account includes free banking for a year, including no fees for everyday transactions.
- Accounts can be accessed online, via a mobile app, over the phone or at a branch.
- All sorts of borrowing options are available to HSBC customers, including loans and credit cards.
Cons:
- Although there is a fee-free introductory period, the bank then charges business customers a monthly maintenance fee of £8 on their account.
- Though there are many ways to access the account, HSBC’s mobile app has not been as well reviewed as some of the competition.
- It takes an average of 4.9 days to open an account, which is longer than some of its competitors.
Mettle Business Bank Account
Free
Free
Free
FreeAgent Included
- For sole traders or limited companies with up to two owners
- Maximum balance of £1million
- You’ll need an iOS or Android device to open and manage the account
- For UK-based companies with owners who are UK residents and pay tax in the UK only
NerdWallet's Review Summary
NatWest offshoot Mettle is an offering specifically for self-employed workers and limited companies with up to two owners. There is a lot to like here for start ups, including a great mobile app, different pots to organise your money and free access to accounting software if you make at least one transaction per month.
For more details, read NerdWallet’s Mettle Business Account review.
Mettle key features:
- Mobile app: Business banking customers can use Mettle’s well received mobile app to manage their money.
- Sole trader focus: UK-based sole traders, plus an account for limited companies with a maximum of two owners, are specifically catered for by Mettle’s account.
- Deposits protected by FSCS: Eligible deposits are protected up to a total of £85,000 by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme.
NerdWallet's Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Mettle business customers pay no monthly fees or transaction charges.
- The mobile app is one of the top banking apps on the market.
- Customers can access customer service via app, email and over the phone seven days a week.
Cons:
- Mettle has no branches for face-to-face support.
- There is no way to add a cheque to your account.
- International payments are not possible for those with a Mettle account.
- Borrowing options like overdrafts, credit cards or loans are not available with Mettle.
- Mettle says it aims to review all new applications within 72 hours (excluding weekends).
This product may be one of a range offered by this provider. Always check terms & conditions for suitability before applying.
RBS Start Up Business Account
Free
Free for 24 months
Free for 24 months
24 months free banking
- Available to eligible customers over 18, who have the right to be self employed in the UK
- This ‘Startup business account’ is available for businesses that have been trading for less than 1 year and have a projected or existing annual turnover of less than £1m
NerdWallet's Review Summary
With an RBS business account, you only pay for what you use instead of facing a flat monthly fee. An account for start ups is available, which charges no fees on everyday transactions for the first 24 months. It gives free access to FreeAgent accounting software as well as borrowing options.
For more details, see NerdWallet’s RBS business account review.
RBS key features:
- Introductory offer: Start ups can enjoy two years of no transaction fees.
- Borrowing: Business overdrafts, credit cards or loans are available to RBS business customers.
- Perks: Extras include free access to FreeAgent accounting software and you may be eligible for help from a dedicated relationship manager.
- 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 monthly charges and start-up customers can avoid everyday transaction fees for the first two years due to an introductory offer.
- Accounts are opened quickly, with 77% of RBS customers getting up and running on the day they apply.
- Customers can manage their money at a branch, over the phone, online and via the app.
Cons:
- RBS accounts are generally for customers in Scotland. If you are in England or Wales, you may be directed to open a NatWest account instead, while people in Northern Ireland are likely to be steered towards Ulster Bank.
- Although the introductory fee-free period lasts for a long time, RBS business customers will then have to pay for most transactions.
This product may be one of a range offered by this provider. Always check terms & conditions for suitability before applying.
NatWest Start Up Business Account
Free
Free for 24 months
Free for 24 months
24 months free banking
- Available to eligible customers over 18, who have the right to be self employed in the UK
- This ‘Startup business account’ is available for businesses that have been trading for less than 1 year and have a projected or existing annual turnover of less than £1m
NerdWallet's Review Summary
Among NatWest’s three different business accounts is an offering specifically designed for start ups. This account charges no monthly fee and includes a two-year period of free basic transactions for eligible customers.
For further details, check out NerdWallet’s NatWest business account review.
NatWest key features:
- Protected: Eligible deposits up to £85,000 are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).
- Introductory period: Eligible customers can get two years of free everyday banking with NatWest’s accounts for start ups.
- Borrowing options: NatWest offers business credit cards, loans and overdrafts.
NerdWallet's Pros & Cons
Pros:
- There is no monthly fee.
- Free accounting software from FreeAgent is available for NatWest customers.
- New accounts take an average of one day to open.
Cons:
- NatWest does not have branches in Scotland or Northern Ireland.
- Fees apply to all transactions outside of the introductory period.
This product may be one of a range offered by this provider. Always check terms & conditions for suitability before applying.
This top 10 only contains business account providers reviewed by NerdWallet UK.
Top 10 Start Up Business Bank Accounts: Summary
| Provider | Star rating | No. of business accounts | Free account available?* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virgin Money |  | 4 | Yes |
| Monzo | | 3 | Yes |
| Starling | | 4 | Yes |
| The Co-operative Bank |  | 6 | Yes |
| HSBC Kinetic | | 1 | No |
| Barclays |  | 3 | No |
| HSBC | | 6 | No |
| Mettle |  | 1 | Yes |
| RBS | | 3 | Yes |
| NatWest | | 3 | Yes |
This top 10 only includes providers currently offering accounts to new customers.
*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?
It is a bank account specifically designed for a start-up business, which is separate from your personal bank account. You can make deposits and withdrawals, buy goods or services using a debit card and, in some cases, access an overdraft, just like a personal current account. But business accounts usually charge fees and transaction costs, and they provide extra tools and services useful for businesses, such as business support and online accounting.
You can open a start up business account with a high street bank, or through online-only challenger banks and app-based platforms that offer business current accounts.
Just because your business is a start up doesn’t mean you are limited to a start-up account. For this comparison article, we have included any business bank account which a new business could be eligible to apply for.
Does a start up need a business bank account?
Whether you need a business bank account depends on the type of business you have, though it can also depend on your personal preference for managing your finances.
Sole trader
If you are a freelancer, self-employed or a contractor, known as a sole trader, it is your choice whether you open and use a business account. Even so, you might want to have one, so your personal transactions are kept separate from your work payments. That way, you will be able to see business income and expenses, and monitor cash flow more easily. This will also help make life easier when it comes to completing your tax return.
Separating your personal and business affairs early on could also come in handy as your business grows. Added to that, your business will build up its own business credit score and, if you manage it well, may be in a better position for a business loan or business credit card in the future.
You may also be glad to have a business account if you hire an accountant or tax adviser to manage your finances, or if HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) needs to make an inspection, as your personal transactions will be separate. And if you are billing customers, you may look more professional if payments are made to a company name, rather than your name.
If you decide to use a personal current account for business transactions instead, maybe because you only occasionally do freelance work, check the account terms and conditions. Some banks won’t let you use personal accounts for business purposes, and if your account shows lots of business-related transactions your services may be stopped and your account may be closed.
Limited company
If your start up is a limited company or limited liability partnership (LLP), even if you are the only employee, you need to have a separate business account. Company income should only go into that account, and you can pay your expenses and salaries out of it.
Your company’s money has to be kept separate from your personal money, as it is a separate legal entity. A business bank account is an easy way to prove that separation.
How to choose a bank account as a start-up business
You may like the idea of using the same provider for your personal and business accounts, to streamline your banking. This could be because you want speedy transfers between accounts, or you would like both accounts in one place.
But it makes sense to check you are not missing out on a better deal that could save money. By shopping around, you can compare the fees, extra features and charges providers are offering, and see how they stack up. You can use our comparison table to compare the price, services and benefits on offer and fees charged.
You might want to look for the lowest fees for the transactions your business is most likely to carry out. Introductory fee-free deals and other discounts are worthwhile features, but think about the whole package and what would be best value for your business, depending on the benefits offered and transaction charges once any introductory period expires and you move to a different plan.
You may also want to check feedback on review sites about the provider’s customer service and usability of its app, for example, along with ethical banking credentials, if that is important to you.
Useful start-up business bank account features
As well as day-to-day transactions, such as deposits, withdrawals, transfers, standing orders and direct debits, start-up business bank accounts offer extra benefits, admin tools and time-saving perks that personal accounts don’t provide. These features may be part of the package, or you may need to pay extra or select a specific plan.
Features on offer might include:
- a mobile app with 24/7 support
- integration with accounting software
- multi-user access
- invoicing, including tracking and reminders
- expenses management
- scheduled payments
- instant spend phone notifications
- fast customer payment systems
- introductory fee-free banking period
- overdraft facility, subject to approval
- business support
- virtual office address
- savings ‘pots’ to set aside income for tax
- spending reports and data
It is worth knowing that if there is an annual or monthly fee, it may include some services and transactions for free, which might be useful if you make lots of those types of transactions. If this fee is waived for an introductory period, find out what you are likely to pay once that period is over.
Can any business open a start-up account?
You can apply for a start up business bank account if you are a sole trader, a registered limited company or a partner in a limited liability partnership (LLP) based in the UK. Start-up business accounts are open to most sectors and business types, but some accounts will have trading or turnover limitations.
So, for example, the provider may ask that your business has been trading for less than a year, or that your turnover doesn’t exceed a specific amount. Some providers also exclude sectors they consider to be a higher risk.
If you are applying, you must be a sole trader, partner or company director aged 18 or over. If it is an app-only service, you will need a compatible device.
Limited companies must be registered with Companies House and based in the UK, and directors with access to the account must be UK residents.
How to apply for a start-up business bank account
Depending on the provider, you can apply for a business bank account online or in person, at a branch. How you do this, and the information you need to provide, will vary depending on the account provider, but it is likely to include:
Personal information
When you apply, you will need to have some specific documents and details to hand about you and anyone else who will have authorised access to the account. The provider will list what is needed, which will include proof of your identity and address through documents such as a driving licence and utility bill, and other personal information such as your date of birth.
Company information
You will need to provide details about your business, including its legal structure as sole trader, limited company, partnership or ‘other’. If applicable, you will also be asked to supply your company’s name and address, company number, date of incorporation, main business activity, the number of employees, and projected turnover in the next 12 months. You will also need to estimate the likely size and number of transfers in or out of the account.
Typical fees for business bank accounts
When choosing a business bank account, you will probably be looking for the best value when it comes to fees and charges. You may also want to consider add-ons that could offer start-up business support and save you time with online accounting extras.
Many providers charge a monthly or annual account fee, though some waive this if your balance is maintained at a certain amount. Some offer no account fees and free banking, sometimes for an introductory period, though you may need to pay to use some features.
Keep an eye out for charges and fees for these services:
- Paying in cash and making withdrawals, such as through an ATM.
- Automated payments, such as Faster Payments and direct debits.
- Non-automated payments, such as cheques and manual processing.
- International transactions, where you send or receive payment in other currencies.
- Overdraft charges, or charges for exceeding monthly transaction limits.
Bank account fees and interest are tax deductible, so you can usually include them in your expenses, under ‘financial costs’.
» MORE: Business bank account charges
Compare start-up business bank accounts
Use our table to compare start-up bank account deals. You’ll see:
- If there is a monthly or annual fee.
- If fees are charged for card purchases and bank transfers.
- If they offer an introductory period of free day-to-day business banking.
- If there is access to overdraft facilities.
- Ways to manage your account, whether by app, online or in branch.
Within each deal, click on ‘more info’ for eligibility information and product features, as well as other business bank accounts the provider offers. Then click through to the provider when you’ve found the deal for you to start your application.
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’.
While we try to provide you with accurate information, the providers can change the terms of their products at any time, therefore it is advisable to check the terms before you proceed. Please read more on our business bank account methodology.
Frequently asked questions about start-Up business bank accounts
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.
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