Choosing the Perfect Business Bank Account: The Ultimate Guide

At Thriday, we understand the unique challenges businesses face in today's fast-paced and competitive environment. That's why we offer a bank account* designed to streamline your financial operations and empower your business growth. In this blog, we will also introduce you to Thriday as an alternative to traditional banks, showcasing the features and advantages that set us apart.

So, let's dive in and discover how you can pick the best business bank account for your needs. 

What is a Business Bank Account?  

A business bank account is a specialised financial account designed explicitly for businesses, allowing them to separate their personal and business finances. It is a central hub for managing daily transactions, such as receiving customer payments, making purchases, paying bills, and managing payroll. 

The primary purpose of a business bank account is to provide a secure ledger for handling all financial activities related to your business operations. The Financial Claims Scheme (FCS) protects money held in a bank account, meaning that a government-backed guarantee safeguards your deposits. 

The FCS is significant because if you hold funds with some financial services providers that are not banks, you are not eligible for this protection. If you come across providers offering business accounts, transaction accounts or wallets, they are attempting to hide the fact that they are not offering protected bank accounts. So be careful!

Under the FCS, if an authorised deposit-taking institution (ADI) - such as a bank or credit union - fails, the Australian government guarantees certain deposits. Currently, the FCS protects eligible depositors up to a limit of AUD 250,000 per account holder, per ADI. 

The FCS protects small business owners and ensures confidence in the banking system by assuring depositors that their funds are protected even if a bank encounters financial difficulties.

Benefits of Separate Business and Personal Bank Accounts 

By keeping your personal and business finances separate, you can maintain accurate records, track income and expenses, and simplify tax preparation.

• Security: Having separate business and personal bank accounts is more secure because it helps maintain clear financial boundaries and protects personal assets from business liabilities.
• Clarity: A separate business bank account helps you maintain clear financial records. You can easily track business income, monitor expenses, and reconcile transactions, making it simpler to understand the financial health of your business. 
• Organisation: Separating personal and business finances streamlines the tax filing process. With a dedicated business bank account, you can quickly identify deductible business expenses, provide supporting documentation, and ensure compliance with tax regulations. 
• Professionalism: Using a business bank account reinforces the professional image of your company. It demonstrates to clients, partners, and investors that you are serious about your business and adds credibility to your operations. 

By leveraging the advantages of a separate business bank account, you can effectively manage your finances, make informed business decisions, and lay a solid foundation for long-term success.

How to Select a Business Bank Account?  

Before diving into the process of selecting a business bank account, it's essential to evaluate your specific business needs and goals. Consider the nature of your business, its size, and the volume of transactions you anticipate. Are you a sole proprietor, a partnership, or a registered company? Understanding these factors will help you identify the most suitable account features and services. Some key factors to consider are:  

1. Banking Account Opening Process: One of the most complex parts of getting started with business banking is opening a business bank account in the first place. Many banks still have archaic processes which require you to fill out forms in person at a branch. Check what's involved and what information you need to provide before you pick a bank, as it could be the difference between getting an instant bank account or getting one a month down the track.
2. Banking Account Features: Look for a business bank account with features tailored to your requirements. Some crucial elements to consider include online banking, mobile banking apps, bill payment services, enhanced security, and access to ATMs. Assess whether the bank provides additional services like merchant services, business loans, or business credit cards that align with your business objectives. 
3. Bank Account Fees: Familiarise yourself with the fee structure of the business bank account you're considering. Understand the charges associated with routine transactions, such as deposits, withdrawals, transfers, and electronic payments. Look for accounts that offer competitive rates and fee waivers for a certain number of transactions or minimum balance requirements. 
4. Accounting Software: Simplify your bookkeeping processes by selecting a business bank account that integrates value-added features such as invoicing and tax estimates. These additional features can be overlooked, but they can save you valuable time by automating the reconciliation of transactions, tracking cash flow, and generating financial reports. 
5. Digital Banking Capabilities: In today's digital age, having robust online and mobile banking capabilities is crucial. Ensure the bank offers secure and user-friendly online banking platforms and mobile apps that enable you to manage your business finances anytime, anywhere, conveniently. 
6. Customer Support: Consider the quality of customer support provided by the bank. Can you easily reach a knowledgeable representative when you have questions or issues? Evaluate the bank's customer support availability, including opening hours, response times and the channels they support (chat, email and phone). 

An excellent example of a provider that offers all of this is Thriday. You can join Thriday for free in minutes and open a business bank account*. From there, Thriday provides a comprehensive suite of features, competitive fees, seamless accounting software, intuitive online and mobile banking platforms, and exceptional customer support. The following section will explore the costs typically associated with business bank accounts, helping you make an informed decision. 

What Fees Apply to a Business Bank Account? 

When considering a business bank account, it's crucial to understand the fees that may apply. Here are some standard fees you may encounter: 

• Monthly Account Fees: Banks may charge a monthly maintenance fee for maintaining your business bank account. These fees can vary based on the type of account and the banking institution, but it's about $10 a month for most banks. Look for accounts with low or no monthly maintenance fees, especially if you're a small business or startup. Thriday offers a $0 monthly bank account* so you can get started without the hassle of paying for banking services.
• Transaction Fees: Transaction fees are charges incurred for specific types of transactions, such as deposits, withdrawals, transfers, and electronic payments. Be mindful of the transaction fees associated with your anticipated transaction volume. Some banks offer fee-free transactions up to a specific limit or provide fee waivers to maintain a minimum balance. A typical example is if you have more than $5,000 in deposits in the account, the fees are waived.
• ATM Fees: If you frequently use ATMs for cash withdrawals or balance inquiries, be aware of the ATM fees imposed by the bank. Some banks have ATM networks where fees are waived, while using ATMs outside the network may incur additional charges. 
• Overdraft Fees: Overdraft fees are levied when your account balance goes below zero, and the bank covers the shortfall. These fees can be substantial, so it's important to carefully monitor your account balance and consider opting for overdraft protection or linking a savings account to mitigate overdraft charges. 
• International Transaction Fees: If your business engages in international transactions, be aware of the associated fees. International transaction fees can quickly add up if you pay invoices for international suppliers using your Debit or Credit Card. These fees are usually a percentage of the transaction.

To make an informed decision, compare the fee structures of different banks offering business bank accounts. Consider the anticipated transaction volume, the services and features provided, and any potential fee waivers or discounts. Assessing the overall cost of maintaining the bank account will help you choose the option that aligns with your budget and business requirements. 

At Thriday, we strive to offer a transparent fee structure on our bank accounts* with competitive rates and fee waivers to support the financial growth of your business. We aim to provide value-added services while minimising costs, ensuring you can focus on what matters most: successfully running your business. 

The following section will walk you through the essential steps in opening a business bank account, making the process seamless and efficient. 

Steps to Opening a Business Bank Account 

Opening a business bank account is a straightforward process, and following these steps will help ensure a smooth and efficient experience: 

1. Obtain an Australian Business Number (ABN)

Before opening a business bank account, you must obtain an Australian Business Number (ABN) from the Australian Business Register (ABR). An ABN is a unique identifier for your business and is required for various financial and tax-related purposes. 

2. Gather Required Documentation

Prepare the necessary documentation to open a business bank account. The exact requirements may vary slightly between banks, but generally, you will need the following: 

• Proof of identity (e.g., Driver Licence, Passport or Medicare) 
• Australian Business Number (ABN) 
• Business registration details (e.g., Certificate of Incorporation) 
• Business ownership structure documentation (e.g., partnership agreement, company constitution) 

3. Research and Compare Banks 

Conduct thorough research and compare different banking institutions that offer business bank accounts. Consider account features, fees, customer support, and reputation factors. Look for banks specialising in serving small businesses and offering tailored solutions to your needs. Check the fine print to ensure you are not opening an account with a provider that is not a bank. Look out for brands offering business accounts, transaction accounts or wallets, as the FCS does not protect your funds.  

4. Apply Online or Visit Branch

Once you have chosen a bank, contact them to schedule an appointment to visit them in the branch or check if online applications are available. Online applications can save time and provide a convenient option for opening a business bank account. 

5. Complete the Application Process

During the appointment or online application, you must provide the necessary documentation and complete the application form. Be prepared to answer questions about your business, anticipated transaction volume, and banking needs. Review the terms and conditions of the account carefully before submitting your application. 

6. Set Up Online Banking and Obtain a Business Visa Debit Card

Once your application is approved, the bank will provide you with the necessary details to set up online banking access. This will enable you to manage your account, track transactions, and perform various banking operations conveniently. Additionally, you will receive a business Visa debit card that can be used for business-related purchases and transactions.  

By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to opening a business bank account that meets your financial needs and facilitates the smooth operation of your business. 

In the next section, we will introduce Thriday, highlighting why it stands out as a top business bank account* choice for businesses in Australia. 

The Best Business Bank Account in Australia: Thriday

When selecting the best business bank account in Australia, Thriday emerges as a standout option that caters specifically to the needs of businesses. Let's explore why Thriday should be your preferred choice for a business bank account*: 

Tailored Features and Benefits

Thriday offers a range of features and benefits designed to simplify and streamline your business banking experience. From robust online and mobile banking platforms and enhanced digital security with two-factor authentication to efficient cash management tools, Thriday provides the essential tools to manage your finances effectively. 

Competitive Fees and Cost Savings

Thriday understands the importance of cost management for businesses. That's why we offer competitive fees and strive to minimise costs wherever possible. You can join Thriday for free, open a $0 monthly bank account* and take advantage of enhanced features for a very affordable price. Our transparent fee structure ensures you can control expenses and maximise your business's financial growth.   

Seamless Accounting and Invoicing Software

Thriday seamlessly integrates all the critical accounting functionality you need, making your bookkeeping processes more efficient. From categorising and syncing your transactions in real time to sending invoices and quotes, you can save time, reduce errors, and gain real-time insights into your financial health. 

Dedicated Customer Support

Thriday is committed to providing exceptional customer support. Our knowledgeable and friendly customer service representatives are available to assist you with any inquiries or concerns you may have. We believe in building long-term relationships with our customers, supporting them every step of the way.   

Trusted and Reliable Banking Partner

Thriday has partnered with Regional Australia Bank (RAB) to offer bank accounts*. RAB is a trusted and reliable banking partner for businesses of all sizes. Thriday's focus on innovation, security, and customer satisfaction, combined with RAB's 150-year banking history, sets us apart from any other products in the market. With Thriday, you can know that your business's financial needs are in capable hands. 

But don't just take our word for it. Here's what some of our satisfied customers have to say: 

So, if you're searching for a business bank account that combines convenience, competitive fees, innovative features, and outstanding customer support, look no further than Thriday Bank Account. Open the door to seamless business banking and experience the difference Thriday can make for your business. 

Business Bank Account FAQs 

Can I use my personal bank account for business purposes? 

While it is possible to use your personal bank account for business transactions as a sole trader, opening a separate business account is highly recommended. Keeping your personal and business finances separate offers numerous advantages, including better financial organisation, simplified tax management, and enhanced professionalism. If your business is registered as a company, you must have a separate business bank account. 

What documents do I need to open a business bank account? 

The specific documentation required may vary between banks, but you will need to provide proof of identity, your Australian Business Number (ABN), business registration details, proof of address, and business ownership structure documentation. It's best to contact the bank directly to inquire about their specific requirements. 

Can I open a business bank account online? 

Many banks offer the option to open a business bank account online, providing a convenient and time-saving process. However, some banks may still require an in-person appointment, especially for specific business types or account features. Check with the bank to determine their application process. 

How long does it take to open a business bank account? 

The timeline for opening a business bank account can vary depending on the bank and the completeness of your application. Sometimes, it can be instant for an online application, while others may take a week or more. It's advisable to inquire about the estimated timeline when applying. 

Can I switch my business bank account to another bank in the future? 

Yes, switching your business bank account to another bank is possible if you find a better fit for your needs. However, it's essential to consider any fees or requirements associated with closing your account and opening a new one. Evaluate the benefits and potential drawbacks before making a switch. 

Opening a business bank account is an important step in effectively managing your business's finances. A bank account keeps your funds secure and lets you track your income and expenses effectively. Thriday offers a comprehensive bank account* tailored to businesses in Australia, ensuring you have the necessary tools and support to thrive. Your business deserves a banking solution that empowers growth and provides peace of mind. Choose Thriday as your partner for business today.