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If you are starting a new business, opening a business bank account is one of the most important things you can do.
Do you need this account?
Although a business account is not essential for every type of business there are some advantages to getting one. The only exception is if you already own and run a limited company in the UK that has been registered with Companies House. As a limited company is a legally separate entity from you, you must have a separate bank account.
Setting up a business bank account is not essential if you are a sole trader, freelancer or doing gig work.
Benefits
One of the most significant benefits of having a business bank account is the ability to keep your personal and business finances separate. Your bank may also limit what you can do with a personal account, so switching to a business account can provide you with more choices and help your company to expand.
Some of the benefits of setting up a business bank account are:
- When it comes to submitting tax returns to HMRC, you can save admin time.
- Guiding you in establishing a credit rating for your company.
- Providing you with business tools, resources, and assistance, as well as finance and credit.
- Making your company more professional to clients and customers.
Types of business accounts:
Here are the different business bank accounts with their categories:
- Startup business bank accounts - These accounts are only for start-ups, small enterprises, freelancers, and sole traders. Some accounts provide a free trial period and business assistance tools to assist you to grow your business.
- Business bank accounts for established companies -These accounts are often categorised by turnover with limits and fees based on the size of your company.
- Community and non-profit accounts - Most UK banks offer a dedicated daily account with minimal or no fees. These banks are perfect for you if you run a charity, social enterprise, club, school, or other non-profit organisation.
Several banks provide multi-currency accounts to companies looking for international trade. If you have bad credit, you can open a business bank account with several digital/mobile banks that don't require credit checks.
How to open a business account online?
Some banks may require you to visit the branch in person to verify your ID or provide further information.
These are the requirements to apply for a business account online:
- The details of all partners, directors or members of the company and their recent home addresses.
- Complete information about your company, including contact details and trading/registration addresses in the UK.
- Company’s cash flow or forecasts.
- Company number of your company that is registered with Companies House.
Also, to apply for a UK business account, your age must be 18 or over, and you must be the owner or director of a company.
You must check the requirements for opening a business bank account from your particular bank before starting the process.
