Running a small online business—whether it’s an e-commerce store, a digital marketing agency, or a freelancing venture—requires smart financial management. One of the most crucial steps for entrepreneurs is choosing the right business bank account.
A good business account doesn’t just hold your money; it provides tools for invoicing, payments, tax management, and global transactions. In 2025, banks and fintech providers in the UK and USA are offering specialized accounts for small businesses, making it easier than ever to manage online income.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best business bank accounts for small online businesses in 2025, including both traditional banks and modern fintech solutions.
Why Do You Need a Business Bank Account?
If you’re running a business, even as a sole trader or freelancer, a separate bank account offers many benefits:
- 💼 Professionalism – Keep personal and business funds separate.
- 📊 Tax Reporting – Simplifies bookkeeping and filing taxes.
- 🌍 Global Transactions – Many accounts allow multi-currency operations.
- 💳 Access to Credit – Build a business credit profile for future loans.
- 🔒 Security – Protects your earnings and provides fraud monitoring.
Top Business Bank Accounts for Small Online Businesses in 2025
1. Wise Business Account (Best for Global Transactions)
Why It’s Great:
Wise (formerly TransferWise) is one of the best options for online businesses that deal with international clients.
Features:
- Multi-currency account supporting 40+ currencies.
- Local bank details in UK, USA, EU, and more.
- Real mid-market exchange rates for currency conversion.
- Integration with Stripe, Shopify, Xero, and QuickBooks.
Best For:
Freelancers, e-commerce sellers, and small agencies with international clients.
2. Revolut Business (Best All-in-One Solution)
Why It’s Great:
Revolut offers a modern fintech solution that combines banking, budgeting, and business management.
Features:
- Multi-currency accounts with interbank exchange rates.
- Virtual and physical debit cards.
- Built-in tools for expense tracking and budgeting.
- Team management for small startups.
- Access to savings, investments, and crypto features.
Best For:
Small online businesses needing both banking and financial management tools.
3. Payoneer Business Account (Best for Freelancers & Marketplaces)
Why It’s Great:
Payoneer is widely used on platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, and Amazon. It’s designed for freelancers, affiliate marketers, and e-commerce sellers.
Features:
- Receive payments in USD, GBP, EUR, JPY, and more.
- Easy withdrawals to local bank accounts.
- Works seamlessly with major freelancing and e-commerce platforms.
- Low-cost international transfers compared to PayPal.
Best For:
Freelancers, affiliate marketers, and Amazon sellers.
4. Chase Business Complete Banking® (USA)
Why It’s Great:
Chase is one of the largest US banks offering small business accounts with digital banking features.
Features:
- No minimum deposit for account opening.
- Built-in QuickAccept® card payment system.
- Free mobile banking and digital invoicing.
- Access to business loans and credit lines.
Best For:
Small online businesses in the USA looking for a trusted traditional bank.
5. Starling Bank Business Account (UK)
Why It’s Great:
Starling is a leading UK digital bank offering free business accounts with no monthly fees.
Features:
- No monthly account fees.
- Real-time payment notifications.
- Integration with accounting tools like Xero and FreeAgent.
- Easy international transfers.
Best For:
UK freelancers, consultants, and e-commerce businesses.
6. HSBC Kinetic Business Account (UK)
Why It’s Great:
HSBC Kinetic is designed for small businesses and entrepreneurs who want the reliability of a major bank with modern app features.
Features:
- Mobile-first business banking.
- Easy credit access for small businesses.
- Built-in expense tracking.
- Worldwide support via HSBC’s global network.
Best For:
UK businesses needing traditional banking plus digital convenience.
Quick Comparison Table
| Bank/Service | Best For | Fees | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wise | Global payments | Low fees | Multi-currency, integrations |
| Revolut | All-in-one fintech | Free & premium plans | Budgeting, virtual cards |
| Payoneer | Freelancers/Marketplaces | Varies by platform | Global client payments |
| Chase (USA) | Traditional banking | Monthly fee (waived with balance) | QuickAccept®, loans |
| Starling (UK) | Fee-free banking | Free | App-based, integrations |
| HSBC Kinetic (UK) | Small businesses | £6.50/month | Mobile-first banking |
How to Choose the Right Business Bank Account
- Check Where Clients Are Located
- International clients? → Wise or Payoneer.
- Local UK/USA clients? → Starling, HSBC, or Chase.
- Look at the Fees
- Some banks charge monthly fees; fintech solutions often have free tiers.
- Consider Integrations
- If you use Shopify, PayPal, or Xero, choose an account that integrates easily.
- Think About Growth
- A fintech account may be enough for now, but if you plan to scale, a traditional bank can provide loans and credit lines.
Final Thoughts
For small online businesses in 2025, the best bank account depends on your client base and needs:
- Wise → Best for international freelancers.
- Revolut → Great for startups needing budgeting and analytics.
- Payoneer → Ideal for freelancers on marketplaces.
- Chase (USA) → Reliable for American small businesses.
- Starling & HSBC (UK) → Excellent digital-first UK banking options.
By choosing the right account, you can save money on fees, streamline payments, and focus on growing your business instead of worrying about transactions