Best Business Bank Accounts for LLCs and Freelancers in the USA (2025 Guide)

💼 Introduction

If you’re an LLC owner, freelancer, or self-employed, having a dedicated business bank account is more than a good idea — it’s a legal and financial necessity.

In 2025, a wave of modern online banks and digital-first financial platforms make it easier than ever to:

• Separate business and personal finances

• Accept client payments

• Track taxes and expenses

• Stay compliant with the IRS

But not all business bank accounts are created equal.

This guide will walk you through the top-performing business bank accounts in the US for 2025, based on:

• No monthly fees

• Mobile and desktop access

• Tax & accounting integrations

• FDIC insurance

• Best for LLCs, freelancers, or both

Let’s explore the smartest places to keep your business money safe — and working for you.

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📌 Why You Need a Business Bank Account

⚠️ IRS recommends separating business and personal finances — or risk piercing the corporate veil.

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🏆 Best Business Bank Accounts in the USA (2025)

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1. Bluevine Business Checking

• Monthly Fee: $0

• APY: Up to 2.00% on balances up to $250,000

• Minimum Deposit: None

• Integrations: QuickBooks, Xero

• Features: Mobile deposit, bill pay, 2 free checkbooks

• FDIC Insured: Yes (via Coastal Community Bank)

✅ Pros:

• Earns interest

• No fees

• Modern interface

🚫 Cons:

• No physical branches

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2. Relay Financial

• Monthly Fee: $0

• Min Balance: $0

• Integrations: QuickBooks, Gusto, Xero

• Features: Up to 20 checking accounts, debit cards for teams, bill pay

• FDIC Insured: Yes (via Evolve Bank)

✅ Pros:

• Built for LLCs & accountants

• Budgeting via sub-accounts

• Free wires & ACH transfers

🚫 Cons:

• No check writing

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3. Novo Business Checking

• Fee: $0 monthly, $50 minimum to open

• Tools: Invoicing, Stripe, Shopify, Zapier, QuickBooks

• Refunds: All ATM fees reimbursed

• FDIC Insured: Yes (via Middlesex Federal Savings)

✅ Pros:

• Best for eCommerce + freelancers

• User-friendly app

• No hidden fees

🚫 Cons:

• No checkbooks

• Limited customer support hours

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4. Lili for Freelancers

• Fee: Free & Pro ($9/month)

• Built-In Tools: Expense tracking, tax bucket, invoicing

• Best For: Solopreneurs, gig workers, digital nomads

• FDIC: Yes (Choice Financial Group)

✅ Pros:

• Automatic tax savings

• Perfect for quarterly tax filers

• Mobile-first interface

🚫 Cons:

• No multi-user access (not ideal for LLCs with partners)

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5. Mercury Bank (for Startups)

• Fee: $0

• Best For: Tech startups & remote companies

• Features: Virtual debit cards, API access, cash management

• FDIC: Yes (via Evolve + Patriot Banks)

✅ Pros:

• Integrates with Stripe, Plaid

• Slick UI for founders

• Good for EIN-only applicants

🚫 Cons:

• Not ideal for retail or local businesses

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📊 Comparison Table – Business Checking Accounts (2025)

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🧮 What to Look For in a Business Bank Account

📌 Choose based on how you get paid, how you pay others, and how you track everything.

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🛠 How to Open a Business Bank Account (Step-by-Step)

Required Documents:

• EIN (Employer Identification Number)

• Business formation documents (LLC, Corp)

• Business license (if applicable)

• Personal ID (driver’s license or passport)

Steps:

1. Choose your preferred bank or online platform

2. Apply online (takes 5–10 minutes)

3. Upload required documents

4. Fund the account (if required)

5. Link with accounting/invoicing tools

💡 Most modern banks offer instant virtual debit cards upon approval.

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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

• ❌ Using personal account for business income

• ❌ Not separating LLC expenses

• ❌ Choosing a bank that doesn’t support integrations

• ❌ Ignoring ATM or transfer fees

• ❌ Failing to reconcile transactions regularly

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🧠 Final Thoughts

In 2025, choosing the right business bank account can streamline your entire financial workflow — and help you stay tax-compliant, organized, and ready for growth.

Whether you’re just launching an LLC, freelancing part-time, or scaling a startup — the best business checking accounts offer zero fees, integrations, and peace of mind.

Our top picks:

• 💵 Bluevine – best for earning interest

• 🔄 Relay – ideal for LLCs with sub-accounts

• 🌐 Novo – for modern freelancers and online sellers

• 🧾 Lili – for tax-focused solo workers

• 💻 Mercury – best for startup founders and tech-savvy teams

📌 Your business deserves more than a personal bank account. Upgrade your financial game today.