One of the questions we’re asked all the time is:
“Which business bank account should I open?”
The honest answer? It depends on your business.
The good news is there are some brilliant options available now, and they’re a far cry from the days of sitting in a bank for two hours signing endless paperwork!
Whether you’re just starting out or thinking about switching, here are our favourite business bank accounts and who they’re best suited for.
1. Starling Bank – Our Overall Favourite
If we had to recommend just one account to most of our clients, it would probably be Starling.
It’s free to open, easy to use, and just…works.
Why we love it:
- No monthly account fee
- A brilliant mobile app
- Fast UK bank transfers
- Connects with accounting software
- Great customer support
A couple of things to bear in mind…
If your business takes lots of cash, Starling probably isn’t the best fit because cash deposits come with fees.
Approval time: Usually within 24 hours for straightforward applications.
Monzo Business
If you already love Monzo personally, chances are you’ll love their business account too.
It’s especially good if you like knowing exactly where your money is going.
Why we like it:
- Free business account available
- Tax Pots (which we LOVE!)
- Simple invoicing
- Great budgeting features
- Really easy-to-use app
Worth knowing…
Some of the more advanced features sit behind a paid plan.
Approval time: Usually a few days.
Tide
If speed is your thing, Tide is definitely worth looking at.
You can often have an account open incredibly quickly, and it comes with some handy business tools too.
Why we like it:
- Free account available
- Fast application process
- Built-in invoicing
- Expense management
- Great for freelancers, contractors and new businesses
Just check…
Transaction fees can vary depending on how you use the account, so it’s worth having a look before signing up.
Approval time: Many accounts are approved within an hour, with most opened within 48 hours.
If you’d rather stick with a traditional high street bank, HSBC is still a really solid choice.
It offers all the benefits of digital banking while giving you access to a larger banking network if that’s important to you.
If your business regularly pays cash into the bank, Lloyds is definitely worth considering.
With plenty of branches and good cash handling facilities, it can be a better fit than some of the newer digital banks.
Just bear in mind that monthly fees usually apply once any introductory offer ends.
Don’t Forget About Mettle…
Although it didn’t quite make our top five, Mettle deserves a special mention.
Why? Because eligible customers can get FreeAgent accounting software included at no extra cost.
Considering FreeAgent normally costs around £150 a year, that’s a pretty nice bonus.
If you’re looking for both a business bank account and accounting software, Mettle could be a really smart option.
So…Which One Would We Choose?
If you’re asking us…
Starling is still our overall favourite for most small businesses.
It’s simple, reliable and integrates really well with the accounting software we use every day.
If speed is your priority, we’d also happily recommend Tide.
And if you’re planning on using FreeAgent, it’s definitely worth taking a look at Mettle too.
Need a Little Help?
Opening the right bank account is only one piece of the puzzle.
Choosing the right business structure, keeping on top of your bookkeeping, understanding your tax bills and making sure you’re not paying more tax than you need to—that’s where we come in.
At 2 Sisters Accounting, we love helping small businesses feel confident about their finances without all the jargon.
So if you’re not sure which account is right for you (or you’ve got a hundred other accounting questions), just get in touch.
We’d love to help.
2 Sisters Accounting Ltd
Out of 5 stars
Overall rating out of 25 Google reviews
Beth has been my accounts go to for several years now. From the very humble beginnings of my business to it now being much bigger, she’s been fantastic every step of the way. Her advice always puts my business and me first, and she explains things clearly and simply. Highly recommend!
Absolutely outstanding service from 2 Sisters Accounting Ltd! From the moment I became a company director, they’ve been by my side, guiding me through everything, running my business, starting my family, and even buying my first home. Their support has been invaluable! No question is ever too small, and they always respond quickly, clearly, and accurately. I especially love that I can book a call anytime, making everything feel effortless. Their modern, forward-thinking approach sets them apart, no outdated, old-school accountancy here! If you're looking for accountants who truly have your back, 2 Sisters Accounting Ltd are the ones to trust. The future of accounting is here! 🚀✨
Beth and Jessie are superstars - wish if jumped in with them sooner! The have always provided me with useful advice and saved me significant amounts of time and money for VAT and corporation Tax! Thanks again girls ❤️
As someone very uninformed about tax matters, I've found 2 Sisters Accounting Ltd. very approachable, responsive and knowledgeable with regards any questions I've raised with them. I can trust that all work will be done quickly and efficiently to a high standard.
A great, personalised service from the sisters. Pleased to recommend them.
Swapping to 2 Sisters Accounting is one of the best business decisions I've ever made. Beth is a financial wizard, and capable of explaining complex accounting rules in a way that makes sense. I no longer feel confused about my finances, feel confident in managing my cash flow, and know that Beth is doing an amazing job at managing the more complicated stuff so I don't have to think about it. I would 100% recommend them for everyone.
As a small business owner, running an enterprise efficiently requires using the best tools available to free up your time. Beth and Jessie have proved to be an invaluable support for me as my business grows. Great communication, prompt responses when anything is urgent and brilliant, proactive advice to make my life easier. I would happily recommend Two Sisters Accounting to any small business looking to make their life more efficient and enjoyable.
I moved over to 2 Sisters Accounting about 3 years ago after getting fed up with accountants that I had to constantly chase and didn't feel were on my side as a customer, I'm so glad I did. Jessie and Beth exude professionalism, but also understanding and kindness. They are communicative, responsive, and demonstrate business savvy, and even more importantly, empathy. Being a small business owner is always challenging, but having someone like 2 Sisters in your corner allows you to get on with doing the work, knowing that there is someone you can trust to give you could advice and have your best interests at heart when it comes to all things tax, VAT, and company accounts. Highly recommended.
The 2 sisters team have bought so much peace of mind and time back to me within my business. They take care of everything for me, making sure I'm always ahead with my filings and that I know everything going on. They make things super simple, I'm always happy with their response times and my business wouldn't be the same without them. Would recommend to any small business!
2 Sisters Accounting offer an efficient, stress free service. Beth and Jessie are both great at what they do. They explain everything in simple terms and are thoroughly lovely to boot! You may even get sweets from them at Christmas. What more could you ask for?! I highly recommend their services.
2 sisters accounting are superb local accountants. Having known Jessie and Beth for the past year - I know how deeply they hold client experience at a high level. Not only are they a good shoulder to lean on but they are always extremely helpful and offer solid business advice in a simple yet effective manner. Also, most importantly, when they make a commitment they follow through on it. I would highly recommend the 2 sisters team.
