5 best online business bank accounts in January 2026

Key takeaways

• A top online business account lets you send and receive payments quickly, avoid costly transaction and account fees, scale globally, and more. 

• The best online business banking solutions include Airwallex, Novo, and American Express, based on our analysis of fees, yields, functionality, and features.

• A 2025 survey found 98% of small businesses are satisfied with their fintech products, highlighting growing confidence in digital-first banking solutions. 

• With more than 30 million SMBs in the US, demand for business banking is high. For many owners, traditional brick-and-mortar branches are no longer the most practical way to manage their money. 

In fact, Airwallex, Novo, American Express, Found, and Bluevine are the best online business bank accounts, with Airwallex standing out for its international payments and multi-currency features.

Whether you’re just starting your business or looking for a new account to support its growth, this guide highlights which online financial services providers are strongest in key areas, helping you choose the right business account for your needs. 

Comparing the best online business banking accounts 

*Subject to change; you typically must meet certain requirements to earn incentives.

1. Best overall: Airwallex

Our take: Airwallex is the best online business account for small business owners and entrepreneurs as it lets them manage all their financial needs via a single platform, no account maintenance fees, minimum deposit, or minimum balance required. 

Airwallex is an especially good choice if you have global ambitions. For instance, its multi-currency accounts let you receive funds from customers in their currency and convert them into different currencies, minimizing costly conversion fees and making your global cash management faster, smoother, and more efficient.

The platform also gives you access to global account details, fast transfers to more than 200 countries, and essential business tools such as corporate cards and expense management. It also integrates with popular accounting platforms such as Xero and QuickBooks.

Overall, Airwallex is a solid one-stop shop if you want to minimize the time and effort spent on managing your finances and focus on what you do best – growing your small business.

Pros

• Fully online application and account activation

• Choose from 3 plan types to suit your business needs and budget 

• End-to-end encryption and bank-level security

Cons

• Traditional business savings account not available

• $15-$25 fee on SWIFT transfers

• No overdraft facility

2. Best for no fees: Novo Business

Our take: If you’re looking to minimize costs, Novo Business is a good option. In addition to waiving monthly maintenance fees, it doesn’t charge for ACH transfers, incoming domestic wires, insufficient funds, stopped payments, or paper statements. It also doesn’t charge ATM withdrawal fees and reimburses customers up to $7 per month if a third-party network provider does. 

The Novo account could also be a good choice if you want to reduce the hassle of chasing payments, letting you set automated reminders for invoice followups. Novo users also receive discounts on popular business tools, including Slack, Dropbox, Microsoft Ads, and Asana.

Keep in mind, however, that Novo’s business account isn’t entirely free; you’ll pay up to $30 for outgoing wires and 1.5%-2% fees for express outgoing ACH delivery and express check deposits. Plus, it lacks Airwallex’s global reach.

Pros

• No minimum balance

• Integrations with Gusto, Stripe, and QuickBooks

• AI-powered bookkeeping

Cons

• No interest on deposits

• Savings accounts not available

• No proprietary ATM network

3. Best for rewards: American Express Business Checking

Our take: The American Express Business Checking account is a best online small business checking account if you’re looking to get something back on your day-to-day business spending. American Express Business often has a welcome offer. (As of writing this, you could earn 30,000 Membership Rewards points after performing select ‘qualifying activities.’) 

You also earn a point for every $2 of eligible debit card spending, which you can convert into account deposits or put toward travel benefits with Amex partners, including airline tickets and guest rooms. There isn’t a cap on rewards, so this account is suitable if you’re planning to do a lot of spending on your card. 

Although Amex doesn’t have the same expense management capability as Airwallex, you can integrate your account with accounting software, such as Xero and QuickBooks. This functionality can help streamline bookkeeping, speed up reconciliations, and reduce admin at tax time.  

Pros

• Earn 1.30% annual percentage yield (APY) on balances up to $500,000

• 24/7 customer service

• No minimum balance requirement

Cons

• Users can’t deposit cash

• No overdraft facility

• $25 fee on outgoing domestic wires

4. Best for LLCs: Found Business Banking

Our take: Found’s three business account options come with built-in tools for invoicing, expense tracking, and tax planning via a mobile-first platform, making them appealing for LLCs that want to simplify their finances without relying on separate accounting software.

For example, LLCs can create up to 5 business accounts under a single login, each with its own checking account, bookkeeping, and tax tools. You’ll also receive real-time reporting and information on contractor management, including W-9 collection and 1099 payments.

Paid Plus and Pro account holders earn an APY on their balances, while Pro users also get debit card rewards. However, these account options start at $149.99 and $720 per year, respectively, so it’s essential you factor in that cost when deciding whether Found is right for you. It’s also worth noting that Found is built for U.S.-centric businesses, and so, unlike Airwallex, it has limited global payments functionality.

Pros

• Free plan with no minimum balance requirement

• Order up to 10 physical cards and 20 virtual cards

• Helps identify relevant tax write-offs

Cons

• Lending and payroll features not available

• No welcome bonus

• Lacks multi-currency support 

5. Best for online checking APY: Bluevine

Our take: Bluevine is a best online small business checking account if you’re particularly interested in earning a generous yield on your everyday spending balances. 

Its Standard business checking account, which doesn’t charge a monthly maintenance fee, offers 1.3% APY on balances, and its top-tier Premier business account offers a 3.0% APY, among the highest available. However, Premier account holders face a $95 monthly fee unless they maintain an average daily balance of at least $100,000 and have at least $5,000 in debit card spending each billing period.

Bluevine, like Found, is also geared toward U.S.-centric small businesses, so it’s not a fit if you need true multi-currency accounts or competitive foreign exchange (FX) pricing. 

Pros

• Waives overdraft fees

• Mobile deposits and app access

• Large ATM network via MoneyPass

Cons

• Bookkeeping limitations

• Outgoing wire fee of $15

• ATM withdrawal fee of $2.50 outside MoneyPass network

Methodology for choosing the best online business bank account

To create our list of the best online business banks and business accounts, we looked at dozens of online providers in the US and evaluated them on key factors such as account fees, minimum deposits and account balances, APYs, and global functionality. 

We also considered digital-first features, like mobile apps, fully online applications and account activation, and small business software integrations. In addition to examining the providers’ websites, we read numerous reviews from industry experts and users on social media platforms and review sites, such as Reddit and Trustpilot.

Understanding online business bank accounts

An online business bank account is a digital-first account designed to help organizations manage their finances through mobile apps, desktop services, and financial platforms.

Types of online business bank accounts

The most common types of accounts for your small business include:

Business checking

These accounts let you make and accept payments, cash and write checks, and manage everyday cash flow. Some also include built-in features for tax management, such as income tracking and report generation.

Novo is the best business account for simple checking as it skips the monthly maintenance fee and other common charges, like early account closing and paper statement fees. It’s a good fit for fledgling U.S.-based businesses.

Business savings

Savings accounts help you set money aside, while also earning interest on your balance. They are a low-risk way to save for future expenses, planned investments, or upcoming tax bills. 

If you’re looking for a standalone best online business savings account, consider Axos Bank Premium Business Savings, which charges no monthly maintenance fee, free domestic and incoming wires, and a 3.60% APY.

Money Market Accounts (MMAs)

Money market accounts also allow you to earn interest on business savings while maintaining liquidity. They typically offer higher yields than standard checking or savings accounts, without directly investing the account holder’s funds.

The U.S. Bank Platinum Business Money Market account is a top option for businesses looking to add one to their financial portfolio, as it offers an up to 3.5% special interest rate and no deposit fee for your first 25 deposit transactions. You can also have the monthly maintenance fee waived if you maintain a minimum daily ledger balance of $10,000. 

Multi-currency accounts

Multi-currency accounts let you hold, send, and receive money in different currencies via a single account. They reduce the need for frequent currency conversions, helping cut exchange-rate costs. 

Airwallex, our best overall online business account, is also a top pick for multi-currency accounts as it lets you keep balances in 20+ currencies, and offers fee-free international payments to 120+ countries.

Benefits of online business bank accounts.

• Lower fees: Many online tools charge little or no monthly fees as they don’t have the same overheads as traditional banks.

• Easy access: When you manage your account via an app or online platform, you should have near-immediate access to your balances, most recent spending, and transaction alerts. 

• Business tools: Features such as expense tracking, invoicing, and accounting integrations dramatically improve cash flow management.

Risk of online business bank accounts

• Limited cash services: Some providers don’t support cash deposits, which may not suit cash-based businesses.

• Smaller ATM networks: Most online banks and financial companies don’t have physical branches, leaving customers reliant on third-party networks that may charge standalone fees. 

• Problems with tech: Connectivity issues can sometimes cause lags or access problems, particularly for businesses relying on a single account.

Key features of choosing the best online business bank accounts

We’ve rounded up some important features to look at when comparing online business bank accounts:

• Low costs: Many online accounts charge minimal or no monthly fees and have low balance requirements, making them ideal for small businesses or startups, but you should check their full fee schedule to accurately assess costs.

• Perks: Some providers offer attractive extras such as competitive interest rates on balances and cash back on debit card spending.

• Service and access: The best online accounts typically include 24/7 support via phone, email, or live chat.

• Tools and integrations: Built-in cash management tools and integrations with accounting software can help streamline tax reporting and administrative tasks.

• Scalability: Strong online accounts support growth, with features such as multi-user access and international payments.

How to apply for an online business bank account 

Opening a business bank account is usually straightforward, especially if you have the correct information on hand. Here’s a quick overview of the process:

1. Choose the right provider: Compare potential accounts based on fees, features, and integrations to ensure they meet your individual needs.

2. Prepare your documents: Gather key information such as business registration details, proof of address, Employer Identification Number (EIN), Social Security numbers, and personal identification for company owners and directors.

3. Complete the online application: Fill in the provider’s digital application form, which often takes just a few minutes to submit.

4. Verify your identity: Upload documents and complete any necessary compliance checks.

5. Activate your account: Once approved, you can use your account to send, receive, and manage business payments.

Learn more about business account requirements in the U.S. 

Alternatives to online business bank accounts

If you don’t think an online business account is right for you, there are other options:

• Traditional banks: Established banks often provide in-branch access, cash-handling services, and financing. They may be a good choice for organizations that prefer face-to-face service or make frequent cash deposits.

• Local credit unions: These accounts typically offer lower fees and more personalized service than online banks, though digital and global features tend to be limited.

• Spend management platforms: These focus on controlling company expenses, issuing company cards, and tracking spending. Many businesses use these alongside a traditional bank account, rather than as a replacement.

Frequently asked questions about the best online business bank accounts

Can I open a business bank account online? 

Yes, many banks and fintech providers let you open a business bank account entirely online. This process typically involves completing a digital application, uploading documents, and passing identity checks.

Can I open a business bank account with just an EIN?

Many providers accept an Employer Identification Number (EIN) instead of a Social Security number, though you’ll still need to provide personal ID and business formation documents.

What bank account is best for an LLC?

Airwallex is the best bank account for global LLCs, given its multi-currency accounts, competitive foreign transaction fees, and all-in-one platform. Found is another top option, offering robust built-in business, accounting, and expense management tools. Ultimately, the best LLC business account depends on your needs and goals. Try to look for low fees, strong online features, and tools such as multi-user access.

Sources

1. https://www.ftassociation.org/new-state-of-fintech-survey-reveals-high-levels-of-satisfaction-value-and-trust-in-fintech/

2. https://www.deloitte.com/us/en/what-we-do/capabilities/converge/articles/small-business-banking.html 

3. https://www.novo.co/60ca70f6cb7406afbf948a8e/6758945f19eeedcd8bc77e28_NovoFeeSchedule2024.pdf 

4. https://www.americanexpress.com/en-us/campaigns/banking/business/checking-account/welcome-bonus-300-5K-deposit-v7/ 

5. https://found.com/legal/fee-schedule-lead 

6. https://www.bluevine.com/business-checking/no-monthly-bank-fees 

7. https://www.axosbank.com/business/savings/business-savings-accounts/business-premium-savings# 

8. https://www.usbank.com/business-banking/banking-products/business-bank-accounts/business-money-market-account.html 

Disclaimer: We wrote this article in Q4 2025. We based the information on our own online research and were not able to manually test each tool or provider. The information is provided for educational purposes only, and a reader should consider the specific requirements of their business when evaluating providers. If you would like to request an update, feel free to contact us at [email protected].