Choosing the right business savings account in 2025 can make a measurable difference to your company’s financial health. With the Bank of England base rate at around 4%, there’s real potential to grow surplus funds, provided you pick an account that balances strong returns with the flexibility your cash flow demands.
Business savings accounts allow you to earn interest on money that isn’t needed for immediate expenses, turning idle cash into an active contributor to your bottom line. Yet rates, fees, and access terms vary widely between providers, and the wrong fit could quietly erode your returns.
This guide cuts through the noise, comparing leading UK options, from established high street names to agile digital challengers, so you can see which accounts offer the best mix of interest rates, costs, and accessibility. Whether you’re chasing the highest possible yield, need instant liquidity, or want fixed-term certainty, you’ll find the insights here to match an account to your business’s unique priorities.

- What are the Best Business Savings Accounts in 2025?
- Best Business Savings Accounts At A Glance
- Best Business Savings Accounts Reviewed
- Allica Bank Instant Access Savings Pot Review
- Tide Business Savings Account
- Monzo Business Instant Access Savings Pot Review
- Wise Interest Review
- Aldermore 1 Year Fixed Rate Business Savings Account Review
- Virgin Money 1 Year Business Fixed Rate Savings Account Review
- NatWest 95 Day Liquidity Manager Review
- HSBC Money Manager Easy Access Account Review
- Lloyds Bank 95-Day Notice Account Review
- Barclays Business Premium Account Review
- Capital on Tap Business Savings Account Review
- Revolut Business Savings Account Review
- Zempler Bank Instant Access Savings Pot Review
- How to Choose the Right Business Savings Account
- Typical Costs of Business Savings Accounts
- What to Look for in a Business Savings Account Provider
- Business Savings Account FAQs
What are the Best Business Savings Accounts in 2025?
Four providers stand out for their strong overall propositions in 2025. Each offers clear advantages alongside some limitations.
Allica Bank delivers some of the highest potential interest rates for businesses that meet its balance and activity requirements. Dedicated relationship managers back it for tailored support, though these conditions make it better suited to firms with more substantial reserves.
Aldermore offers dependable fixed-term rates that guarantee returns, ideal for businesses that are comfortable locking funds away. However, this also means there is no early access if cash flow needs change.
Monzo combines ease of use with instant access and seamless accounting integrations, making it an appealing choice for startups and smaller SMEs. However, its most competitive rates are reserved for paid plans.
Wise is well-equipped for internationally focused businesses, offering competitive rates across multiple currencies and strong automation features, but it operates under a safeguarding model rather than FSCS protection. Together, they represent some of the best options for balancing returns, flexibility, and usability in the current market.
Best Business Savings Accounts At A Glance
Compare the main features, pricing, and suitability of all leading providers below:
Brand | Best For | Key Features | Interest Rate | Learn More |
---|---|---|---|---|
Allica Bank Instant Access Savings Pot | Businesses seeking high returns and support | High AER, dedicated relationship managers | Up to 4.08% AER (variable) | Visit Allica Bank |
Tide Business Savings Account | Startups and SMEs with digital needs | User-friendly app, strong accounting integrations | Up to 4% AER (variable) | Visit Tide |
Monzo Business Instant Access Savings Pot | Small businesses prioritising ease of use | Seamless app integration, 24/7 support | Up to 1.40% AER (variable) | Visit Monzo |
Wise Interest | International businesses | Multi-currency capabilities, open API | Up to 4.07% AER (variable) | Visit Wise |
Aldermore 1 Year Fixed Rate Business Savings Account | Businesses with surplus cash for fixed terms | High fixed interest rates | 4.06% AER (fixed) | Visit Aldermore |
Virgin Money 1 Year Business Fixed Rate Savings Account | Large deposits needing fixed returns | Competitive fixed rates | 4.00% AER (fixed) | Visit Virgin Money |
NatWest 95 Day Liquidity Manager Account | Businesses planning withdrawals in advance | Higher notice account rates | 3.25% AER (variable) | Visit NatWest |
HSBC Money Manager Easy Access Account | Established businesses valuing stability | Tiered rates based on withdrawal frequency | Up to 1.65% AER (variable) | Visit HSBC |
Lloyds Bank 95-Day Notice Account | Larger businesses with planned cash flow | Clear notice account terms | Up to 2.77% AER (variable) | Visit Lloyds Bank |
Barclays Business Premium Account | Businesses needing branch services | Extensive branch network | Up to 1.66% AER (variable) | Visit Barclays |
Capital on Tap Savings Account | SMEs seeking high initial returns | High introductory interest rate | Up to 4.07% AER (variable) | Visit Capital on Tap |
Revolut Business Savings Account | Tech-savvy businesses comfortable with safeguarding | Tiered interest rate | Up to 3.51% AER (variable) | Visit Revolut |
Zempler Bank Instant Access Savings Pot | SMEs needing integrated financial tools | Integrated accounting tools | Up to 0.75% AER (variable) | Visit Zempler Bank |
Best Business Savings Accounts Reviewed
Allica Bank Instant Access Savings Pot Review
Why We Picked It: We like Allica Bank for its market-leading potential interest rates and personal approach to business banking. It’s a strong option for SMEs with larger balances who can meet its activity-based criteria and value having a dedicated relationship manager, something many digital challengers don’t offer. The account is also well-integrated with Xero, making it a good fit for finance teams who want smooth accounting workflows. However, businesses with smaller balances or inconsistent cash flow may find it harder to qualify for the top rates, making other instant-access accounts in this list more accessible.
Pros & Cons
- Market-leading potential variable interest rate (up to 4.08% AER* with boosts). *Rate includes standard rate of 3.08% AER (minimum balance applies) plus a 0.5% boost each month if you make 15 bank transfers out of the account in the previous month, and a 0.5% boost for six months if you complete a switch with CASS. Eligibility criteria and T&Cs apply.
- FSCS protection on eligible deposits up to £85,000
- Dedicated relationship managers for personalised support
- Seamless direct Xero integration for daily transaction feeds
- Tiered rates, with top rate for £40,000–£5m balances to suit different deposit levels
- The top rate is only available if strict balance and activity requirements are met
- Requires a linked Allica Business Current Account and eligibility approval
Pricing
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Account Fees | £0 |
Interest Rate | Up to 4.08% AER (variable)*. *Rate includes standard rate of 3.08% AER (minimum balance applies) plus a 0.5% boost each month if you make 15 bank transfers out of the account in the previous month, and a 0.5% boost for six months if you complete a switch with CASS. Eligibility criteria and T&Cs apply. |
Minimum Balance for Top Rate | £40,000 |
>> Read our full Allica Bank Savings Account Review
Tide Business Savings Account
Why We Picked It: Tide’s savings account is a good pick for digitally minded businesses seeking instant access and easy integration with accounting tools. Its promotional rate is competitive, especially for large balances, and its in-app financial tools add real convenience. Compared with Allica or Capital on Tap, it’s more accessible to smaller businesses thanks to its lower entry requirements, but the best rates end after six months and are tied to paid plans. Other providers in this list may offer better value for long-term high interest.
Pros & Cons
- Competitive promotional rate (up to 4.00% AER for six months)
- Instant access with no withdrawal penalties
- User-friendly mobile app designed for SMEs
- Syncs with popular accounting software like Xero and QuickBooks
- Multiple membership tiers (£0–£69.99 + VAT/month) for added features
- Integrated invoicing and expense tracking in-app
- Promotional rate expires after six months, with ongoing rates tied to membership tier
- Only balances over £1m are eligible for top rates
Pricing
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Interest Rate | Up to 4.00% AER (6 months), then tiered rates based on plan |
Account Fees | £0 but requires a Tide account, with fees ranging from £0 to £69.99 + VAT per month |
>> Read our full Tide Business Savings Account Review
Monzo Business Instant Access Savings Pot Review
Why We Picked It: Monzo is an excellent choice for startups and smaller SMEs looking for an intuitive, app-first banking experience with instant access to savings. Its integration with popular accounting tools and 24/7 support make managing day-to-day finances easy. While it’s less competitive on interest rates than Tide or Allica, its low barrier to entry and no-fee savings pot on the free plan make it appealing for those prioritising simplicity over yield. Businesses focused purely on maximising returns might prefer higher-paying alternatives from this list.
Pros & Cons
- Variable interest rate up to ~1.40% AER
- No minimum deposit requirement
- Instant access to savings without penalties
- Intuitive, easy-to-use mobile app
- Integrates with Xero, FreeAgent, and Sage
- 24/7 in-app chat support, plus phone for urgent issues
- FSCS protection up to £85,000
- Lower interest rate that other providers
- Must have a Monzo Business Current Account
Pricing
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Account Fees | £0 for Savings Pot but requires a Monzo Account, with monthly fees ranging from £0 to £25 |
Interest Rate | Up to around 1.40% AER (variable) |
>> Read our full Monzo Business Savings Account Review
Wise Interest Review
Why We Picked It: Wise stands out for internationally focused businesses thanks to its competitive multi-currency rates and low-cost currency conversions. Its open API and automation capabilities are rare in this market, making it ideal for tech-savvy teams and companies handling overseas payments. However, it operates under a safeguarding model rather than FSCS protection, which may be a drawback for risk-averse firms. If FSCS cover is a priority, a provider like Allica or HSBC would be safer.
Pros & Cons
- Multi-currency savings with competitive rates (GBP ~3.74% AER after 0.56% fee)
- It supports multiple currencies (GBP, EUR, USD, etc.)
- Open API for automation and custom integrations
- Seamless integration with Xero and QuickBooks
- Instant access to funds without penalties
- Suitable for international transactions and cross-border payments
- Not FSCS-protected (operates under safeguarding)
- 0.56% annual fee reduces net return
- Interest rates track central bank rates and are updated regularly causing fluctuations
Pricing
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Annual Fee | 0.56% of GBP balance 0.27% of EUR balance 4.07% on USD balance |
One-Off Fee | £45 one-time set-up fee if you don’t already have a Wise Business Account |
Interest Rate | Up to 3.74% AER (variable) on GBP Up to 1.95% AER (variable) on EUR Up to 4.07% AER (variable) on USD |
Transaction Rate | From 0.33% depending on currency |
>> Read our full Wise Business Savings Account Review
Aldermore 1 Year Fixed Rate Business Savings Account Review
Why We Picked It: Aldermore’s fixed-term account is an excellent fit for businesses with surplus funds to commit for a year. It offers one of the most competitive fixed rates on the market, backed by FSCS protection, and has a lower minimum deposit than many rivals. The downside is that funds are locked in, so it’s unsuitable for businesses needing flexible access. Companies wanting guaranteed returns without daily liquidity will find it an appealing alternative to instant-access products in this list.
Pros & Cons
- Guaranteed fixed rate (4.06% AER) for one year, regardless of market changes
- FSCS protection up to £85,000
- Low minimum deposit (£1,000) compared to some rivals
- Clear, simple account terms
- Reliable online application process
- No early withdrawals permitted
- No additional deposits are allowed during the term.
Pricing
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Account Fee | £0 |
Interest Rate | 4.06% AER |
>> Read our full Aldermore Business Savings Account Review
Virgin Money 1 Year Business Fixed Rate Savings Account Review
Why We Picked It: Virgin Money is a solid pick for businesses with larger deposits seeking fixed, predictable returns. Its competitive rates and high maximum deposit limits make it ideal for organisations managing significant cash reserves. Like Aldermore, it’s best for those who can lock funds for the term, as there’s no access before maturity. An instant-access account, such as Capital on Tap or Tide, would be a better option for flexibility.
Pros & Cons
- Competitive fixed rate (up to 4% AER) for one year
- FSCS protection up to £85,000
- Other term options range from 3 to 24 months
- High maximum deposit limits (up to £25m)
- Predictable earnings for financial planning
- Funds locked in for the full term.
- Higher minimum deposit requirement (~£5,000) than some competitors
Pricing
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Account Fees | £0 |
Interest Rate | 4.00% AER (fixed) |
Minimum Deposit | ~£5,000 |
NatWest 95 Day Liquidity Manager Review
Why We Picked It: NatWest’s notice account offers a middle ground between yield and access, with a higher rate than its instant-access accounts and no minimum balance requirement. It’s well-suited to businesses with predictable cash flow that can plan withdrawals 95 days in advance. While the rate isn’t as high as some fixed-term products, it offers more flexibility than locking funds for a year. An instant-access option from this list would better serve those needing same-day access.
Pros & Cons
- Offers a higher interest rate (around 3.25% AER) than NatWest’s instant-access accounts
- No minimum balance requirement, making it accessible to businesses of all sizes
- FSCS protection up to £85,000 for eligible deposits
- Backed by a large, established high street bank with strong brand recognition
- Suitable for businesses with predictable cash flow that can plan withdrawals in advance
- Can make withdrawals if you give 95 days’ notice
- Online account management via app and web
- Notice period limits access to funds for urgent needs
- Variable interest rates may not be as competitive as top fixed-term market offers
Pricing
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Account Fee | £0 |
Interest Rate | ~3.25% AER (variable) |
Notice Period | 95 days |
HSBC Money Manager Easy Access Account Review
Why We Picked It: We picked HSBC for its balance of flexibility and brand reliability. It allows instant access without penalties, while tiered rates reward keeping funds on deposit. It’s ideal for businesses that value the reassurance of an established bank and optional integration with Xero. However, rates are lower than those of leading challenger banks like Allica, so it’s less suited to those chasing top-tier returns.
Pros & Cons
- Rates up to around 1.65% AER for funds untouched for 60 days
- Instant access to funds without withdrawal fees
- FSCS protection up to £85,000
- Optional Xero integration
- Tiered rates based on withdrawal frequency encourage keeping funds on deposit.
- Strong brand reputation and branch network
- Interest rate resets to the lower tier after withdrawals.
- Rates are lower than top market offers
Pricing
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Account Fees | £0 |
Interest Rate Tiers | Up to 1.65% AER (variable). Depending on balance and withdrawal frequency |
Lloyds Bank 95-Day Notice Account Review
Why We Picked It: Lloyds’ notice account offers predictable terms and FSCS-backed security, making it appealing to larger businesses with stable reserves. However, its high minimum balance and withdrawal requirements make it impractical for smaller companies or those needing frequent access. Compared to NatWest’s 95-day account, Lloyds has a higher entry threshold and a lower rate, but some businesses may still prefer it for its established reputation and stability.
Pros & Cons
- Predictable 95-day notice period for withdrawals or account closure, providing clarity for financial planning
- FSCS protection up to £85,000 for eligible deposits
- Backed by a large, well-established UK bank with a strong reputation
- Suitable for businesses with stable cash reserves and planned withdrawal schedules
- Clear structure for interest earnings and withdrawal requirements
- Relatively low interest rate (around 2.77% AER) compared to other notice or fixed-term accounts
- High minimum deposit and withdrawal requirements of £10,000 limit accessibility for smaller businesses
Pricing
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Account Fee | £0 |
Interest Rate | Up to 2.77% AER (variable) |
Notice Period | 95 days |
Minimum Balance | £10,000 |
Minimum Withdrawal Amount | £10,000 |
Barclays Business Premium Account Review
Why We Picked It: Barclays is a dependable choice for businesses that value in-person banking and instant access to funds. Its extensive branch network is advantageous for companies handling cash deposits, and FSCS protection adds peace of mind. However, the interest rates lag behind many digital-first competitors in this list, so it’s better suited to businesses prioritising accessibility and service over yield.
Pros & Cons
- Tiered, variable interest rates starting from ~1.26% AER
- Instant access to funds with no penalties
- FSCS protection up to £85,000
- Extensive branch network for cash deposits and in-person transactions
- Established high street bank with a strong reputation
- Easy management alongside Barclays’ current accounts
- Rates are relatively low compared to challenger banks.
- App features are less advanced than digital-only competitors.
Pricing
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Account Fee | £0 |
Interest Rate | Up to 1.66% AER (variable) depending on balance held |
Capital on Tap Business Savings Account Review
Why We Picked It: Capital on Tap appeals to SMEs seeking a high introductory interest rate with no monthly fees. Its 24/7 UK-based human support is a standout feature, offering faster resolution than some digital-only providers. However, the promotional rate is short-lived and limited to balances between £50,000 and £500,000. It’s a strong choice for those looking to make the most of surplus funds in the short term, but long-term savers may find better ongoing rates elsewhere in this list.
Pros & Cons
- Attractive promotional interest rate (up to 4.07% AER) for the first 60 days
- No monthly fees on the savings account, maximising net returns
- Instant access to funds without withdrawal penalties
- FSCS protection via ClearBank partnership
- 24/7 UK-based human customer support for quick resolution of issues
- Linked business credit card option with rewards
- The promotional rate is short-lived, reverting to a lower variable rate afterwards.
- The top rate only applies to balances between £50,000 and £500,000, limiting flexibility for smaller or substantial deposits.
Pricing
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Account Fee | £0 |
Introductory Rate | Up to 4.07% AER (variable) |
Balance Range for Top Rate | £50,000–£500,000 |
>> Read our full Capital on Tap Business Savings Account Review
Revolut Business Savings Account Review
Why We Picked It: Revolut is a good fit for tech-forward SMEs, especially those dealing in multiple currencies. Its fully digital setup and accounting integrations make managing finances in real time easy. While its best rates require paid plans and use safeguarding rather than FSCS protection, its flexibility and global reach are compelling for international businesses. Those prioritising FSCS cover may prefer Wise’s competition in this space.
Pros & Cons
- Supports multi-currency balances with instant access to savings
- Highest rate up to ~3.51% AER on Enterprise plan
- Seamless integration with tools like Xero and FreeAgent
- Fully digital onboarding and account management
- No withdrawal penalties, allowing complete flexibility
- Quick transfers and easy currency conversion
- Not FSCS-protected; operates under a safeguarding model, which may delay access to funds in a failure scenario
- Tiered interest rates with the best rates require subscribing to higher-tier paid plans.
- Requires a Revolut Business Account, with account fees starting at £10 per month
Pricing
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Account Fees | £0 for the Revolut Savings Account, but requires a Revolut Business Account with plans starting at £10 per month |
Interest Rate | Up to 3.51% AER (variable) |
Zempler Bank Instant Access Savings Pot Review
Why We Picked It: Zempler is a niche but practical option for SMEs wanting integrated financial tools. It offers instant access, strong accounting software links, and UK-based telephone support. The requirement for a paid Business Pro plan may deter smaller businesses, and rates are lower than those of market leaders. Still, for those already using Zempler’s ecosystem, it’s a convenient way to earn interest without moving funds elsewhere.
Pros & Cons
- Integrates with Xero, QuickBooks, and Sage for streamlined accounting
- UK-based telephone support for personal assistance
- Instant access to funds without withdrawal penalties
- Eligible deposits up to £85,000 are protected by the FSCS
- Fits within Zempler’s broader suite of integrated business finance tools
- Low interest rate (0.75% AER (variable)) compared to other providers.
- Must have a Zempler Business Account with a Pro Plan (£19 per month)
- Some user reviews cite slower response times from customer support.
Pricing
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Account Fee | Requires Pro Plan, £19 per month |
Interest Rate | Up to 0.75% AER (variable) |
How to Choose the Right Business Savings Account
Interest Rates: Evaluate rates for both instant access and fixed-term options, including any promotional periods or tiered structures.
Fees and Membership Plans: Determine whether monthly fees, withdrawal penalties, or transaction charges might reduce your net returns.
Access Terms: Decide if you need on-demand withdrawal, can give notice (like 95 days) or lock funds for fixed terms.
Financial Goals: Align account choice with your longer-term objectives. A notice or fixed-term account can yield higher returns if you expect consistent surplus cash.
Deposit Protection: Ensure FSCS coverage where possible, or be comfortable with safeguarding if opting for providers like Wise or Revolut.
Usability and Support: Check if you’ll benefit from a dedicated manager (Allica) or prefer a digital self-service approach (Tide, Monzo).
Typical Costs of Business Savings Accounts
The true value of a business savings account isn’t just in the interest rate; it’s also in how much you keep after fees, penalties, and plan costs. Even a high AER can be undermined by membership charges or early access restrictions, especially if your balance is modest or your cash flow is unpredictable.
Below is a snapshot of common cost structures across leading providers. This includes monthly plan fees (where applicable), transaction charges, and penalties for early withdrawals or breaking notice terms. Use this to compare the net benefit of each account against your projected usage.
Provider | Monthly Fee Range | Transaction Fees | Early Withdrawal Penalty | Learn More |
---|---|---|---|---|
Allica Bank Instant Access Savings Pot | £0 | £0 in the savings pot | £0 (instant access) | Visit Allica Bank |
Tide Business Savings Account | £0 to £169.98 + VAT | £0 | £0 (instant access) | Visit Tide |
Monzo Business Instant Access Savings Pot | £0 – £25 | £0 in the savings pot | £0 (instant access) | Visit Monzo |
Wise Interest | £0 monthly fee. Annual fee starting at 0.29% + £45 one-time fee. | From 0.33% depending on currency | £0 (instant access) | Visit Wise |
Aldermore 1 Year Fixed Rate Business Savings Account | £0 | £0 | No withdrawals until maturity | Visit Aldermore |
Virgin Money 1 Year Business Fixed Rate Savings Account | £0 | £0 | No withdrawals until maturity | Visit Virgin Money |
NatWest 95 Day Liquidity Manager | £0 | £0 | Must give 95-days notice before access | Visit NatWest |
HSBC Business Money Manager Easy Access | £0 | £0 | The rate resets after withdrawals (tiered rate) | Visit HSBC |
Lloyds Bank 95 Day Notice Account | £0 | £0 | Must give 95-day notice before access | Visit Lloyds Bank |
Barclays Business Premium Account | £0 | £0 | £0 (instant access) | Visit Barclays |
Capital on Tap Savings Account | £0 | £0 | £0 (instant access) | Visit Capital on Tap |
Revolut Business Savings Account | From £10 | £0 | £0 (instant access | Visit Revolut |
Zempler Instant Access Savings Pot | £19 | N/A | None (instant access) | Visit Zempler |
Tip: Always weigh these costs against the interest you expect to earn. For example, a £10 monthly fee on a small balance could erase much of the benefit from a competitive rate. Conversely, if you hold a large, stable balance, paying for a higher-tier plan that unlocks a better rate might actually increase your net return.
What to Look for in a Business Savings Account Provider
When comparing providers, it’s worth looking beyond the headline interest rate. The right choice will depend on your business’s size, cash flow patterns, and operational needs.
Reputation and Stability: Established high street banks such as HSBC and Lloyds offer strong brand recognition and direct FSCS protection, giving peace of mind to risk-conscious businesses. Challenger banks like Allica, Tide, and Monzo often deliver higher rates and slicker digital platforms, but their appeal lies more in agility and innovation than in physical branch networks.
Customer Support: If personalised service matters, providers like Allica Bank stand out with dedicated relationship managers for tailored advice. For faster, on-demand help, Monzo’s 24/7 in-app chat offers instant access to human support, although some challenger banks rely more heavily on digital-only channels.
Additional Services: The right extras can save you time and money. Tide and Monzo integrate directly with popular accounting software, cutting down admin, while Wise offers specialist support for multi-currency transactions, ideal for companies trading internationally.
Fit for Your Operations: Your cash flow will dictate prioritising yield or flexibility. Businesses able to lock funds away can benefit from the guaranteed returns of fixed-term accounts like those from Aldermore or Virgin Money. If liquidity is essential, instant-access options such as Capital on Tap or Barclays will better support day-to-day cash management.
By weighing these factors alongside rates and fees, you can choose a provider that will grow your funds and work in harmony with your business’s operations.
Business Savings Account FAQs
What is a business savings account, and why does my company need one?
A business savings account holds surplus funds separately from your everyday banking, allowing them to earn interest instead of sitting idle. This boosts returns on unused cash and strengthens financial stability. It also supports better budgeting by keeping long-term reserves distinct from operational money.
Are interest rates on business savings accounts fixed or variable?
They can be either. Fixed rates stay the same for the entire term, offering certainty over returns, while variable rates can rise or fall in line with market conditions, such as changes to the Bank of England base rate. Always compare the Annual Equivalent Rate (AER) to see the true yearly return, accounting for compounding.
What role does FSCS protection play?
The Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) protects eligible deposits up to £85,000 per legal entity, per bank. If your bank fails, this protection ensures your funds are repaid within seven working days. For larger balances, spreading funds across multiple FSCS-covered banks can increase your protected total.
How do account fees impact net returns?
Monthly charges, transaction fees, or penalties can significantly reduce your actual interest earnings. Even a small fee can outweigh a high rate if your balance is modest. Always weigh ongoing costs against the interest you’ll earn to calculate your true net gain.
What is the difference between instant access and notice accounts?
Instant access accounts allow you to withdraw funds anytime, making them ideal for flexible cash flow, but they usually offer lower rates. Notice accounts require advance notice—such as 95 days—before you can access funds, but they tend to pay more in return. The choice depends on whether you prioritise liquidity or higher yield.
Should I choose a challenger bank over a traditional bank?
Challenger banks often offer higher rates and innovative digital features, appealing to tech-savvy businesses. However, some operate under safeguarding rather than FSCS protection, which is worth considering for risk management. Traditional banks provide in-branch services, established reputations, and direct FSCS cover, but may offer lower returns.
Is multi-currency functionality important?
It’s essential if your business trades in different currencies or pays overseas suppliers. Providers like Wise and Revolut typically offer competitive exchange rates and lower fees than traditional banks, which can make a noticeable difference to businesses that regularly conduct international transactions.
Why integrate my business savings account with accounting software?
Direct integration with tools like Xero or QuickBooks automates transaction syncing, reducing manual data entry and errors. It provides real-time insights into your financial position and streamlines reconciliation. This can save monthly admin hours, particularly for SMEs with limited resources.
What are fixed-term accounts best for?
They work well for businesses that can commit surplus funds for a set period without early access. Locking your money away guarantees higher, guaranteed returns, making them ideal for long-term reserves or planned future investments.
How can I compare different providers effectively?
Look beyond headline rates to consider fees, withdrawal terms, deposit protection, and any added services like accounting integrations. Customer support quality and ease of use can also significantly impact your day-to-day experience. Matching these factors to your cash flow and operational needs will help you find the best fit.