Key takeaways
- The best business checking account for LLC owners should offer low fees, easy digital access, and tools that simplify everyday money management.
- Your choice depends on how your LLC operates. Digital-first accounts work well for service-based businesses, while traditional banks are better for companies that handle cash and need in-person customer support.
- Each provider in this list offers a unique strength, from earning interest to managing multiple accounts or accessing physical branches.
- Understanding your transaction volume, cash needs, and preferred banking style will help you narrow your options and choose the right provider for your company.
The best business checking account for LLC owners provides low fees, easy account access, and the tools you need to manage cash flow without slowing your business down. When helping business owners open LLC accounts, I quickly learned that the right checking account affects everything from paying bills and tracking expenses to staying prepared for tax season. A strong account should be simple to open, affordable to maintain, and flexible enough to grow with your business.
In this guide, I reviewed a wide range of banks and fintech providers to help you find the best small business checking account for your LLC needs, whether you’re working solo, running a startup, or managing a growing team.
Here are the top business checking accounts for LLCs based on features, fees, and overall value.
- Relay
Relay is a financial technology company and is not an FDIC-insured bank. Banking services provided by Thread Bank, Member FDIC.
: Best for LLCs needing multiple accounts and user permissions - Bluevine
Bluevine is a financial technology company, not a bank.
Bluevine deposits are FDIC-insured through Coastal Community Bank,
Member FDIC.
: Best for earning interest with a no-fee digital account - Novo
Novo Platform Inc. (Novo) is a fintech, not a bank. Banking services provided by Middlesex Federal Savings, F.A., Member FDIC.
: Best digital-only account for fast access to funds and payments - Mercury
Mercury is a fintech company, not an FDIC-insured bank. Banking services provided through Choice Financial Group and Column N.A., Members FDIC.
: Best for tech-focused LLCs needing seamless online banking and added FDIC coverage - U.S. Bank
Member FDIC.
: Best for low-transaction LLCs wanting branch access - Axos Bank
Member FDIC.
: Best for LLCs wanting low fees and full traditional banking features - Chase
Member FDIC.
: Best for full-service business banking with cash deposit support - Lili
Lili is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services are provided by Sunrise Banks, N.A., Member FDIC.
: Best mobile-first option for solo and small LLCs - North One
North One is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services for the deposit account provided by The Bancorp Bank, N.A., Member FDIC.
: Best for fast setup and predictable flat-fee digital banking - Grasshopper
Grasshopper Bank, N. A., Member FDIC.
: Best digital-only option for earning interest on higher balances
Best business checking accounts for LLCs at a glance
Relay: Best for LLCs needing multiple accounts and user permissions
What I Like
- Inexpensive wire transfers
- No opening deposit required
- Large variety of software integrations
Drawbacks
- No lending products
- No physical locations
- Interest-bearing checking is not available
Read our Relay Business Checking review
Features
- Open up to 20 individual business checking accounts
- Customer service via phone, live chat, and support center email
- FDIC insurance coverage up to $3 million
- Same-day ACH delivery
- Checks can be sent online for free; third-party checks are unavailable
- Up to 50 debit cards per cardholder, per checking account
- Money management platform built into online banking
Relay Starter Business Checking is best for LLCs needing multiple accounts and user permissions, especially if you want flexible banking tools without monthly fees. Choose Relay if your business needs simple, organized cash management that can scale with your team.
When to choose Relay
- You need multiple checking accounts: Relay lets you create and manage up to 20 individual accounts, which makes it easy to separate taxes, payroll, profit, and operating expenses.
- You want role-based user permissions: You can assign cards and access levels to partners, employees, or bookkeepers without giving everyone full control.
- You prefer digital banking with strong cash-flow tools: Automated transfers, spend controls, and easy integrations help you organize your LLC’s money without extra admin work.
Bluevine: Best for earning interest with a no-fee digital account
What I Like
- Excellent line of credit product
- $500 sign-up bonus for new business checking account holders with promo code FSM500
- Three business checking options with competitive interest rates
Drawbacks
- No physical branch locations
- No savings, money market, or CD accounts
- Fees are charged for depositing cash
Read our Bluevine business checking review
Features
- Free debit card
- Line of credit and business credit cards available
- Extended FDIC insurance up to $3 million
- Up to 20 subaccounts
- No monthly maintenance fee
- International business payments are available
- Upgraded plans allow fees to be waived when conditions are met
- No minimum monthly balance requirement
- Live customer support available
- One free checkbook per year on an introductory account
Bluevine Standard Business Checking is best for earning interest with a no-fee digital account, making it a strong fit for LLCs that want to maximize cash flow without paying monthly fees. Choose Bluevine if your business keeps regular balances and values a modern, online-first banking experience.
When to choose Bluevine
- You want to earn interest on your balance: Bluevine pays competitive APY on qualifying balances, helping your LLC put idle cash to work.
- You prefer a no-fee digital checking account: With no monthly fees or minimum balance requirements, Bluevine keeps operating costs predictable for small businesses.
- You rely on smooth online banking tools: Bluevine offers fast payments, easy transfers, invoicing options, and integrations that support a streamlined, paper-free workflow.
Novo: Best digital-only account for fast access to funds and payments
What I Like
- No monthly maintenance fees
- ATM fee refund up to $7 monthly
- Faster access to our funds using Novo Boost and Express ACH
Drawbacks
- Account does not earn interest
- Unable to deposit cash directly
- No savings accounts and limited lending products
Read our Novo business checking review
Features
- Online banking includes unlimited invoicing and bill pay
- Live customer support from dedicated professionals
- Deposit checks directly through the mobile app
- Merchant cash advances available through Novo Funding
- Stripe payouts up to two days early with Novo Boost
- Set aside funds for taxes and other large business expenses with Novo Reserves
- Live customer support from dedicated professionals
Novo is a fintech, not a bank. Banking services provided by Middlesex Federal Savings, F.A. Member FDIC.
Novo Business Checking is a solid choice for digital-only LLCs needing simple banking, fast access to funds, and faster payments. Choose Novo if you want a clean, lightweight banking experience without monthly fees or unnecessary features.
When to choose Novo
- You want quick access to payments and transfers: Novo offers faster payouts from platforms like Stripe, which helps smooth cash flow for service-based and online LLCs.
- You prefer a streamlined, digital-only experience: With no branches and no monthly fees, Novo keeps your account simple and easy to manage entirely from your phone or desktop.
- You rely on essential business integrations: Novo connects with tools like QuickBooks, Shopify, and PayPal, making it easier to manage invoices, expenses, and online sales in one place.
Mercury: Best for tech-focused LLCs needing seamless online banking and added FDIC coverage
What I Like
- Outstanding yields on balances over $250,000 with Mercury Treasury
- No fees for domestic or international wires
- No required monthly maintenance fee on introductory account
Drawbacks
- No paper check writing ability
- Limited lending options
- Cash deposits are not accepted
Read our Mercury business checking review
Features
- Automatic receipt matching
- Unlimited bill payments
- Mercury Treasury cash management options are available
- 1.5% auto cash back rewards from corporate card
- Employee debit cards allow you to set spending controls
- Up to $5 million in FDIC insurance through partner banks
- Set custom user permissions for your team members
- Create autotransfer rules for accounts
- Virtual and physical debit cards are available
- Ability to send 1099s electronically
Mercury is a fintech company, not an FDIC-insured bank. Banking services provided through Choice Financial Group and Column N.A., Members FDIC.
Mercury Business Checking is best for tech-focused LLCs seeking seamless online banking with enhanced FDIC insurance coverage. Choose Mercury if your company values modern financial tools and operates without the need for physical branches.
When to choose Mercury
- You run a tech-forward or online-only business: Mercury is designed for startups, ecommerce companies, and digital LLCs that prioritize fast, intuitive online banking.
- You want expanded FDIC insurance protection: Through its partner banks and sweep network, Mercury offers higher total FDIC coverage, which is helpful for businesses holding larger balances.
- You prefer advanced financial tools and automations: Mercury includes features like virtual cards, API banking, cash-flow insights, and integrations that support a modern finance infrastructure.
U.S. Bank: Best for low-transaction LLCs wanting branch access
What I Like
- Accounts can be opened in person, online, or by phone
- No required monthly maintenance fee
- Free mobile check deposits
Drawbacks
- Limited free transactions
- Expensive wire fees
- Opening deposit is required
Read our U.S. Bank Business Checking review
Features
- Easy integration with overdraft protection or credit card processing for your business
- Send and receive money through the app
- Customer service online, by phone, or in-branch during business hours
- Mobile app to monitor accounts, make transfers, and deposit checks
- Digital invoicing and payment systems are integrated into your business dashboard
- Other products include lending and cash flow products, along with other account options
U.S. Bank Business Essentials Checking is best for low-transaction LLCs wanting branch access and traditional banking support. Choose U.S. Bank if your business benefits from in-person service or needs a reliable brick-and-mortar banking relationship.
When to choose U.S. Bank
- You want access to physical branches and ATMs: U.S. Bank offers a large regional footprint, making it a strong choice for LLCs that handle cash or prefer in-person banking.
- Your business has a light monthly transaction volume: Business Essentials keeps costs low for LLCs with modest activity, helping you avoid unnecessary fees.
- You value relationship banking and long-term support: U.S. Bank is a good fit if you plan to expand into lending, merchant services, or other financial products as your business grows.
Axos Bank: Best for LLCs wanting low fees and full traditional banking features
What I Like
- Free incoming wires
- Large welcome bonus up to $600
- Opening deposit not required
Drawbacks
- Monthly service fee on interest-bearing account
- Overdraft items $25 each, up to a maximum of $75 per day
- No physical branches
Read our Axos Basic Business Checking review
Features
- Enhanced security features
- Payroll options available
- Unlimited ATM fee reimbursements
- Online wires and bill pay
- Commercial lending products are available
- Business and personal account access through online banking
- Online wires and bill pay
- Payroll and merchant services available
- Accounting software integrations
Axos Bank is a member of the FDIC.
Axos Basic Business Checking is best for LLCs wanting low fees and full traditional banking features without giving up the convenience of an online-first experience. Choose Axos if you want predictable costs, solid digital tools, and access to broader banking services as your business grows.
When to choose Axos
- You want a low-fee checking option: Axos offers no monthly maintenance fees and reimburses certain ATM fees, which helps keep your operating costs down.
- You need a blend of digital and traditional banking: Axos is online-first but still provides access to essential business services like cash deposits (via partner networks) and treasury tools.
- You plan to grow into more banking products: With lending, savings, and merchant services available, Axos is a solid long-term fit for LLCs preparing for expansion.
Chase: Best for full-service business banking with cash deposit support
What I Like
- Built-in invoicing
- Easy-to-waive monthly maintenance fee
- Up to a $500 bonus when you open an account and meet qualifying activities
Drawbacks
- ATM fees not reimbursed
- Fee for cash deposits of more than $5,000 per statement period
- Limited number of free transactions
Read Our Chase Business Complete Banking® review
Features
- Chase QuickAccept® payment services
- Deposit checks, view account balances, pay bills, and make transfers through the mobile app
- Manage debit, deposit, and ATM card settings for individual employees
- Integrates with QuickBooks and other leading accounting software
- Live customer support online or in-branch during business hours
- Other products include business savings, CDs, lending products, credit cards, merchant services, and collection services
Chase is a member of the FDIC.
Chase Business Complete Banking® is best for full-service business banking with cash deposit support and strong in-person access. Choose Chase if your LLC needs reliable branch banking, robust payment tools, or plans to scale into additional financial services.
When to choose Chase
- You handle cash or need frequent branch access: Chase offers one of the largest national branch and ATM networks, making it ideal for LLCs that rely on in-person deposits or withdrawals.
- You want built-in payment tools: With features like Chase QuickAccept for card payments, you can accept and settle transactions quickly without separate merchant accounts.
- You plan to build a long-term banking relationship: Chase provides credit cards, business loans, and merchant services, which makes it a strong option for LLCs preparing for future growth.
Lili: Best mobile-first option for solo and small LLCs
What I Like
- Built-in expense tracking
- Payouts up to two days early
- No monthly maintenance fees
Drawbacks
- No real estate lending options
- No physical branches
- Key features require a paid plan
Read our Lili Business Checking review
Features
- Team access through online banking
- Invoicing software available
- High-yield savings accounts
- FDIC coverage up to $3 million
- Express ACH available
- Automatic alerts and notifications
- Built-in bookkeeping on paid plans
Lili is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services are provided by Sunrise Banks, N.A., Member FDIC.
Lili Basic Checking is best for solo and very small LLCs wanting a mobile-first banking experience with built-in budgeting and tax tools. Choose Lili if you want simple, intuitive banking designed to streamline your day-to-day finances.
When to choose Lili
- You run a single-member or small LLC: Lili’s streamlined features work best for businesses with straightforward finances and minimal transaction complexity.
- You want built-in financial tools: Lili includes automatic expense categorization, budgeting features, and tax tools to help simplify money management.
- You prefer managing everything from your phone: With its mobile-first design and easy-to-use app, Lili is ideal if you don’t need branch access or advanced traditional banking services.
North One: Best for fast setup and predictable flat-fee digital banking
Features
- Same-day ACH available
- 1% cashback on debit transactions for North One Plus
- Two business accounts to choose from
- Business term loans and a line of credit are available
- No overdraft fees
- Large list of software integrations
- Unique login for additional users
- Interest options with high APY
North One is a financial technology company, and not a bank. Banking services are provided by The Bancorp Bank, N.A., Member FDIC.
North One Standard Account is best for LLCs needing fast setup, predictable flat-fee pricing, and simple budgeting tools in a digital-only environment. Choose North One if you want straightforward banking with easy money management features and no unnecessary complexity.
When to choose North One
- You want simple, predictable pricing: North One’s flat monthly fee makes it easy to budget for banking costs without worrying about surprise charges.
- You need a quick and easy account setup: The streamlined application process helps new LLCs get a business checking account up and running in minutes.
- You prefer clean digital tools for budgeting and spending: With built-in envelopes, easy payment options, and app-based controls, North One supports simple, organized financial management.
Grasshopper: Best digital-only option for earning interest on higher balances
What I Like
- Up to 1.35% APY
- Unlimited 1% cash back on qualified online or signature-based purchases
- No monthly fee or minimum balance required
Drawbacks
- Opening deposit required
- Cash deposits not accepted
- No physical locations
Read our Grasshopper Bank Business Checking review
Features
- Earn up to 3.10% APY on balances greater than $25,000 when Accelerator Checking is bundled with an Accelerator Money Market Savings account
- FDIC insurance up to $125 million
- Free physical and virtual debit cards
- Autobooks, QuickBooks, Plaid, and Claude integrations
- Free domestic ACH and wire transfers when balances are kept at $25,000 or greater
- Personalized support from a US-based client services team available by phone, email, chat, and secure message
- Free bill pay, check deposit, and digital invoicing tools
- International wire transfers are available
- Other products include savings accounts, startup banking services, treasury management, CRE loans, and SBA loans
Grasshopper Bank, N. A., Member FDIC.
Grasshopper Accelerator Checking is an excellent digital-only option for earning interest on higher balances with modern fintech features. Choose Grasshopper if your LLC wants a sleek online banking experience with tools designed to support growth and cash-flow efficiency.
When to choose Grasshopper
- You want to earn interest on larger balances: Accelerator Checking offers competitive APY, making it a strong fit for LLCs that maintain higher operating or reserve balances.
- You prefer a fully digital banking experience: Grasshopper is designed for online-first businesses that don’t need branch access or traditional in-person services.
- You value modern fintech tools: From invoicing support to cash-flow insights and integrated spend management, Grasshopper provides features that help streamline operations for growing LLCs.
How I evaluated the best LLC business bank accounts
I reviewed a wide range of business bank accounts to identify which ones offer the strongest value for LLCs. In evaluating the best small business checking account for LLC, I considered how well each provider’s features support the way small businesses actually manage money. Key criteria included:
What to consider when choosing a business bank account for your LLC
While I used our own criteria to select the best business bank account for LLCs, there are several factors you should review before choosing the right fit for your company:
1. Confirm eligibility for your LLC structure
Not all banks support every business type. Some limits apply to entities that can open an account, while others may require you to visit a branch even if online applications are available. Many fintech companies offer a fully digital sign-up, but always check whether your LLC qualifies and whether in-person verification is required.
2. Understand the fee structure and how it applies to your LLC
Some providers offer truly fee-free checking, while others charge monthly fees that can be waived if you meet certain requirements. Before opening an account, consider:
- Can I consistently meet the criteria to waive monthly fees?
- Does the account include enough free transactions or cash deposits for my business volume?
- If I need to pay a monthly fee, do the added features justify the cost?
In some cases, a low monthly fee may be worth it if the bank offers tools or services that fee-free accounts do not.
3. Determine who needs to approve and access the account
For single-member LLCs, account opening is straightforward since you’ll be the only signer.
Multi-member LLCs, however, may need additional documentation and signatures. Before applying, clarify:
- Who must be listed as an authorized signer?
- Who needs ongoing access to the account, such as partners, managers, bookkeepers, or employees?
Most financial institutions require every individual with access to be on record with the bank.
4. Review customer experiences and feedback
Before opening a new business bank account, take time to evaluate the provider’s reputation and service quality. Look for information on customer support availability, complaint patterns, and how well the bank or fintech responds to small business needs. Keep in mind that experiences can vary widely, so focus on feedback and insights that relate to business banking rather than personal accounts.
For additional guidance, see our full guide on how to choose a bank for your small business.
What you need to open a small business checking account
In addition to the documents listed or linked in the sections above, there are general documents you could be required to have to open a business bank account. Here is a general list of what you will need:
- EIN or SSN if you’re a sole proprietor
- Fictitious business name certificate or doing-business-as (DBA) certificate
- Business formation documents
- Organization documents, including your ownership agreements
- Business licenses
- Government-issued photo ID, such as a passport or driver’s license
Additionally, to open an LLC account, you need to submit the following:
- Personal identification and information
- EIN
- Business information and license
- Business formation documents
- LLC operating agreement
What is an LLC account?
An LLC account is a dedicated business bank account opened in the name of a limited liability company. It keeps your business and personal finances separate, which helps maintain your liability protection and ensures the company, not its members, is responsible for its debts and obligations. Using a separate account also makes bookkeeping, tax preparation, and everyday money management easier for small business owners.
Types of LLC accounts
The following are common types of LLCs that may open business banking accounts. Each type has different formation rules and purposes, which can affect how the account is set up.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Yes. A separate bank account is essential because it keeps your personal and business finances separated. This helps maintain your liability protection, supports accurate bookkeeping, and makes tax preparation easier.
It is not recommended. Mixing personal and business funds can weaken your liability protection and create accounting problems. Most banks require a dedicated business account when you operate as an LLC.
Banks typically require your Articles of Organization, LLC Operating Agreement, EIN, business licenses when needed, and government-issued identification for all signers. Some banks may request additional documents depending on your state and business structure.
Yes. You can add authorized signers such as other members, managers, or bookkeepers. Each authorized person must provide identification and any additional information the bank requires. It is important to decide who will have access before you apply.
Bottom line
All the banks on this list can provide your LLC with a strong business checking account along with helpful tools and services that support day-to-day operations. Before choosing the best business account for LLCs, take time to identify which features matter most for your company. Once you understand your priorities, select the account that offers the right mix of convenience, cost, and flexibility for your business.