Which are the best business current accounts?
For startups
The Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) business current account for startups From one of the most recognisable names in banking, we have a business current account designed for those new to the business world. Offered to businesses who have been trading for less than a year, with a turnover of 1 million or lower, the Business Current Account for Startups is tailor-made for businesses looking to keep costs down and growth up. What’s Good? Account owners receive 24 months of free banking, which means no interest paid on balances and no charges for transactions made through the account. Youll also receive a 500 no-fee overdraft for the first 12 months of service. Internet banking, direct debits, a mobile app and all the other common features are available for ease of use. Access to a credit card with no annual fee for the first year is also included, if requested. What’s Bad? Limited to 1 million turnover, meaning it isnt exactly adaptive to rapid growth. The verdict This is the perfect business account for small businesses just starting out on their journey. Those looking to go into rapidly growing industries like big tech or finance might consider looking elsewhere, but for most businesses, the free 24 months of banking limited to 1 million turnover will suit just fine.For evolving or established businesses
The HSBC small business bank account As your business grows, you may start to feel the limitations of a startup account. Likewise, if you have been trading for over two years, it isnt something that will fit with your business. What you need is something that keeps fees low, while offering a bit more wiggle room. The HSBC small business bank account is your answer. What’s Good? For those transferring from another business bank account, the process is simple and can be done online. Once you’ve made the move, you’ve got 18 months of free banking ahead of you. No service charges, no interest, just simple ins and outs. The turnover limit is 2 million. With the national average of business turnover currently at 500, 000, that will be more than enough for most businesses. What’s Bad? No free overdraft limit. After 18 months of free banking is up, you will move to their small business tariff account, which will incur monthly fees and service charges. it’s best to consider your options beyond this point and look to other accounts on the list. The verdict One of the best business bank accounts around, the HSBC current account offers business owners room to breathe while avoiding nasty costs. Great for established businesses, anyone coming out of a startup account, or those who are seeing increased turnover.For growing enterprises
The Santander business current account While the average turnover for UK businesses is 500k, it is not uncommon for successful brands to break the 2 million mark. If that happens, youll be looking for something a bit more open. The Santander Business Current Account is, potentially, the perfect solution. What’s Good?For bigger businesses
The Cashplus Business Account As the money starts rolling in, most business current accounts start to see much higher expenses. Youll come across service charges for payments, premiums on income and interest on every penny kept in the account. The best business accounts, though, don’t need to cost an arm and a leg. The business account from Cashplus is the answer. What’s Good?Unlimited turnover. You don’t have to worry about how much you are making, as your business is free to rake in the cash. No interest paid on cash in the bank and very limited service charges. While there is a 69 annual fee, when taking into account the reduced costs thanks to the benefits, this fee is exceptionally good value. What’s Bad? There is a 2 charge per ATM use, 3 if overseas. Not a huge issue as most business accounts operate online, but it is still worth noting. There is also a 99p fee per outbound transfers, like client payments, employee wages and suppliers, that occurs on every payment except for the first three of the month. Being an online bank, Cashplus has no official branches, although on-site banking can be done via the Post Office. The verdict
For larger businesses with high profits, there isnt another account available that reduces costs so significantly. Untethered by across-the-board service fees, turnover limit or interest, businesses have much more control over their money, while retaining more of their income than they would with other business accounts. Russell Smith is managing director at Russell Smith Chartered Accountants RBS has announced a 400m compensation fund for small businesses. Read more here.
