Freelancing has become more than just a trend—it’s a lifestyle. From creative professionals to digital nomads, millions are choosing independence over the 9-to-5 grind. But with freedom comes responsibility, especially when it comes to managing money. Freelancers juggle irregular income, tax obligations, and business expenses, making the right bank account more than just a convenience—it’s a lifeline.
In this guide, we’ll break down the top bank accounts for freelancers based on what matters most: low fees, high perks, and tools that help you thrive. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling your freelance business, you’ll find an account that fits your needs and helps you keep more of what you earn.
Why Freelancers Need a Specialized Bank Account
Before we dive into the best banks, let’s talk about why freelancers shouldn’t settle for a traditional personal account:
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Separate business and personal finances – Essential for budgeting, tax prep, and looking professional.
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Easy invoicing and payments – Some accounts come with built-in invoicing tools or easy integration with platforms like PayPal and Stripe.
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Low or no fees – Freelancers often can’t predict cash flow, so avoiding monthly fees and overdraft charges is crucial.
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Tax support – Some digital banks offer automatic savings for taxes or categorize expenses to simplify filing.
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Access to business credit or funding – Down the road, a good banking relationship can help with growth.
Now that we’ve covered why it matters, let’s explore the best options available in 2025.
1. Lili – Built for Freelancers
Best for: All-in-one freelancer banking
Fees: No monthly fee, no overdraft fees
Perks:
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Tax bucket to auto-save a percentage of income
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Built-in invoicing and expense management
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Real-time expense tracking and categorization
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Free ATM withdrawals at 38,000+ locations
Lili is tailor-made for freelancers and gig workers. What sets it apart is its freelancer-specific features, like automatic tax savings and expense categorization by IRS code. You can also create and send invoices directly from the app—super handy if you don’t want to pay for additional tools.
If you upgrade to Lili Pro ($9/month), you get features like an emergency bucket, financial insights, and priority support.
Ideal for: Freelancers who want a modern, all-in-one solution without extra tools or apps.
2. Novo – Simple Business Banking with Great Integrations
Best for: Freelancers who use multiple business tools
Fees: No monthly fees, no minimum balance
Perks:
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Integrates with Stripe, Shopify, QuickBooks, and more
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Free ACH transfers, mailed checks, and incoming wires
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Create multiple “Reserves” for taxes, savings, or project funds
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Virtual debit card available instantly
Novo isn’t strictly for freelancers, but it checks all the boxes. It’s a tech-savvy business account that connects smoothly with popular freelance tools. Their easy-to-use app allows you to manage finances, set money aside, and keep track of your spending.
Novo also has great customer service, and the ability to send checks from the app is a game-changer if you still deal with old-school clients.
Ideal for: Freelancers with multiple income streams and app integrations.
3. Bluevine – High-Yield Interest and Business-Friendly
Best for: Freelancers looking to grow savings
Fees: No monthly fee, no incoming wire fees
Perks:
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Earn up to 2.0% APY on balances up to $250,000
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Two free checkbooks per year
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Pay vendors and contractors directly
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Integrates with QuickBooks and Xero
Bluevine is great for freelancers who want to make their money work for them. Unlike most business checking accounts, Bluevine pays a competitive interest rate. And while it’s a business account, there’s no need to have a registered LLC to open one—perfect for sole proprietors.
With its combination of high yield and practical features, Bluevine is a solid pick for freelancers who keep a larger balance or plan to.
Ideal for: High-earning freelancers or those who want to grow their savings passively.
4. Found – Effortless Banking Plus Tax Tools
Best for: Freelancers focused on tax automation
Fees: No monthly fee
Perks:
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Automatic expense tracking and tax estimate tools
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Schedule C generation for easy tax filing
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Invoicing built into the app
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Accept payments via ACH, debit card, or Venmo
Found is another banking app designed exclusively for freelancers, and it shows. From tax tools to easy income tracking, it removes much of the stress around tax season. You can snap pictures of receipts, tag expenses, and even get quarterly tax reminders.
Their premium plan, Found Plus ($14.99/month), gives you advanced reports and priority support, which might be worth it during tax season.
Ideal for: Freelancers who dread tax time and want built-in help.
5. Chase Business Complete Banking – Traditional Power, Modern Perks
Best for: Freelancers who prefer a traditional bank
Fees: $15 monthly fee (waived with $2,000 balance or qualifying activity)
Perks:
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Access to 4,700 branches and 16,000 ATMs
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Built-in QuickAccept for card payments
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Zelle integration for fast transfers
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Business credit card options
If you prefer a brick-and-mortar option, Chase is one of the best traditional banks for freelancers. It gives you in-person support, plus modern features like mobile check deposit and same-day payments through QuickAccept.
The monthly fee is easy to avoid, and you get the credibility of a big-name bank—useful if clients are skeptical of online banks.
Ideal for: Freelancers who want a mix of physical banking and tech features.
6. Axos Basic Business Checking – All Online, All Free
Best for: Cost-conscious freelancers
Fees: No monthly maintenance fee, no overdraft or NSF fees
Perks:
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Unlimited domestic ATM fee reimbursements
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First set of 50 checks free
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No minimum opening deposit
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Excellent mobile app
Axos is a fully online bank that punches above its weight. With no fees and no deposit requirements, it’s a solid choice if you’re just starting your freelance journey. They even reimburse you for ATM fees, which is rare among online banks.
It’s not as flashy as Lili or Novo, but it’s dependable, free, and user-friendly.
Ideal for: New freelancers or those focused on minimizing costs.
What to Look For in a Freelancer Bank Account
Here’s a quick checklist to help you pick the right fit:
✅ Low or no fees
✅ Invoicing and payments
✅ Tax support or automation
✅ Integrations with tools you already use
✅ Mobile app functionality
✅ Savings or high-interest options
✅ ATM access or fee reimbursements
Every freelancer is different, so your ideal account will depend on your workflow, income sources, and comfort with digital tools.
Bonus Tips: Managing Money as a Freelancer
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Open two accounts: One for income, one for taxes or savings.
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Set aside 25–30% for taxes each time you get paid.
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Track every expense: Use apps or bank categorization tools.
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Automate what you can: Recurring payments, transfers, and savings help smooth out cash flow.
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Review quarterly: Freelance income fluctuates, so check your budget regularly.
Final Thoughts: Your Bank Should Work as Hard as You Do
Freelancing gives you freedom, but it also requires smart financial choices. Choosing a bank account that aligns with your goals can make managing your business smoother, less stressful, and even more profitable.
Also Read: Top Mobile Banking Security Features You Should Know About
Whether you want sleek digital tools, tax help, or a good old-fashioned bank branch, there’s something on this list that’ll help you keep your finances as organized as your workflow.
