
Choosing the right business checking accounts in 2025 is more than a financial decision—it’s a strategic move for your company’s success. Whether you’re a startup owner, freelancer, or managing an established enterprise, your checking account plays a vital role in managing cash flow, paying vendors, and handling daily operations.
But with so many options available—from traditional banks to online-only fintechs—how do you decide which one is right for your business?
This guide breaks down the best business checking accounts of 2025, compares the top banks, and helps you identify the account that best fits your needs.
Why Your Business Checking Account Matters
A business checking account is more than just a place to deposit revenue. The right account offers:
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Low or no fees
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Easy access to funds
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Integration with accounting tools
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Mobile banking features
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Customer support tailored to businesses
When comparing accounts, it’s important to evaluate features beyond just the monthly fee. Let’s explore the top contenders in 2025.
🏆 Best Overall: Chase Business Complete Banking®
Best for: All-around value and accessibility
Monthly Fee: $15 (waived with $2,000 minimum balance or other qualifiers)
ATM Access: 15,000+ ATMs nationwide
Minimum Opening Deposit: $0
Key Features:
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Access to physical branches across the U.S.
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Built-in credit card processing via QuickAccept
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Easy integration with QuickBooks and other tools
Why It Stands Out:
Chase offers one of the most robust business banking platforms available. The Business Complete Banking account is ideal for small to midsize businesses that need in-person service and flexible features.
Best for businesses that: Want a hybrid of online convenience and in-person support.
🏦 Best Traditional Bank: Bank of America Business Advantage Fundamentals™
Best for: Established businesses needing full-service banking
Monthly Fee: $16 (waived with $5,000 balance or $250 in debit card purchases)
ATM Access: 16,000+ ATMs nationwide
Minimum Opening Deposit: $100
Key Features:
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Cash flow monitoring tools
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Mobile alerts and budgeting insights
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Business and employee debit cards
Why It Stands Out:
Bank of America’s digital tools are top-notch, and their relationship rewards program offers benefits like reduced loan rates and increased interest on savings.
Best for businesses that: Use multiple banking products and want financial flexibility.
💼 Best for Startups: Novo Business Checking
Best for: Startups and freelancers who operate primarily online
Monthly Fee: $0
ATM Access: Refunds all ATM fees
Minimum Opening Deposit: $0
Key Features:
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No hidden fees
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Integrates with Stripe, Shopify, QuickBooks
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Virtual cards available instantly
Why It Stands Out:
Novo is designed for digital-first businesses. It offers an intuitive dashboard and streamlined banking without the overhead of traditional accounts.
Best for businesses that: Are just starting out or want a lean, tech-forward banking experience.
🧾 Best for Freelancers & Side Hustlers: Bluevine Business Checking
Best for: Earning interest on your business funds
Monthly Fee: $0
ATM Access: 38,000+ MoneyPass ATMs
Minimum Opening Deposit: $0
Key Features:
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Earn 2.0% APY on balances up to $250,000
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No incoming wire fees
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Two free checkbooks
Why It Stands Out:
Bluevine is rare among business checking accounts for offering interest. With no monthly fee and impressive integration tools, it’s perfect for solo entrepreneurs or remote business owners.
Best for businesses that: Want to maximize savings and interest without paying fees.
🛠️ Best for Contractors & Service Businesses: Lili Business Checking
Best for: Gig workers and contractors
Monthly Fee: $0 to $35 (Pro and Premium tiers available)
ATM Access: 38,000+ fee-free ATMs
Minimum Opening Deposit: $0
Key Features:
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Tax tools to save a portion of income automatically
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Built-in invoicing and expense tracking
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Debit card cashback offers
Why It Stands Out:
Lili is more than a checking account—it’s an all-in-one financial tool tailored for the self-employed. It’s ideal for freelancers, creatives, and consultants.
Best for businesses that: Need simplified banking and built-in financial management tools.
🏢 Best for Mid-Sized Businesses: Axos Bank Basic Business Checking
Best for: Higher transaction volumes and growth potential
Monthly Fee: $0
ATM Access: Unlimited domestic ATM fee reimbursements
Minimum Opening Deposit: $0
Key Features:
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200 free transactions per month
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First 50 checks free
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Cash deposits via MoneyPass or Allpoint networks
Why It Stands Out:
Axos is a great fit for growing businesses that want the benefits of online banking with scalable features. It also offers more advanced options if you outgrow the basic plan.
Best for businesses that: Need a scalable banking solution with no monthly fees.
💳 Best for Merchant Services: Mercury Business Checking
Best for: Tech startups and eCommerce brands
Monthly Fee: $0
ATM Access: Allpoint network
Minimum Opening Deposit: $0
Key Features:
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Developer-friendly API
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Team management and user permissions
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Integrated virtual and physical cards
Why It Stands Out:
Mercury is built for tech-savvy businesses. Its powerful back-end, clean interface, and strong security make it a favorite among startups.
Best for businesses that: Are in tech, SaaS, or eCommerce and need custom banking tools.
🧮 Best for Nonprofits & Educational Use: TIAA Bank Small Business Checking
Best for: Nonprofits, educators, and mission-driven organizations
Monthly Fee: $0
ATM Access: Unlimited ATM fee reimbursements
Minimum Opening Deposit: $1,500
Key Features:
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Earn interest on checking
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FDIC-insured up to $250,000
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Free online bill pay and mobile deposit
Why It Stands Out:
TIAA’s history in education and nonprofit sectors means it understands mission-driven needs. Though not as flashy as some fintechs, its reliability is a big plus.
Best for organizations that: Need a stable, interest-bearing checking option with excellent service.
📊 Quick Comparison Table
Bank | Monthly Fee | APY | Opening Deposit | ATM Access | Best For |
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Chase | $15 (waived) | 0% | $0 | 15,000+ ATMs | Overall value |
Bank of America | $16 (waived) | 0% | $100 | 16,000+ ATMs | Established businesses |
Novo | $0 | 0% | $0 | Refund all fees | Startups & freelancers |
Bluevine | $0 | 2.0% | $0 | 38,000+ ATMs | Freelancers, savings |
Lili | $0–$35 | 0% | $0 | 38,000+ ATMs | Contractors & gig workers |
Axos Bank | $0 | 0.2% | $0 | Unlimited rebates | Mid-sized businesses |
Mercury | $0 | 0% | $0 | Allpoint network | Tech & eCommerce startups |
TIAA Bank | $0 | 0.10% | $1,500 | Unlimited rebates | Nonprofits & educators |
What to Consider When Choosing a Business Checking Account
When choosing your account, think about:
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Fees & minimum balances – Avoid accounts that penalize your cash flow.
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ATM access – Will you need cash often?
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Mobile and online features – Some banks offer invoicing, expense tracking, or payment processing.
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Customer support – Responsive service is critical if something goes wrong.
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Integrations – Consider how easily your bank works with tools like QuickBooks, PayPal, or Stripe.
Final Thoughts
The best business checking account in 2025 depends on your needs, business model, and growth plans. Whether you value low fees, interest on deposits, or high-tech integrations, there’s an ideal account out there for you.
Quick tips to make the most of your account:
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Set up alerts for large transactions and low balances.
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Use built-in tools for invoicing and budgeting.
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Reevaluate your account every year to make sure it’s still the best fit.
Smart banking isn’t just about storing money—it’s about fueling your business’s next big move. Choose the right partner, and you’ll set your business up for smoother operations, better financial insights, and long-term growth.