Sections of this topic
I reviewed a range of institutions and identified the 10 best banks for small businesses in California. These banks offer excellent business checking accounts, competitive deposit options, merchant services, and helpful software integrations. Many also have physical branches across California, making in-person support easily accessible.
To round out the list, I included several financial technology companies (Fintechs) for business owners who prefer a fully digital experience. These platforms deliver modern features, low fees, and strong tools for managing finances on the go.
While I focused on banks with a solid presence in California, I also considered national banks and Fintechs offering top-tier business banking across the U.S., bringing flexibility and innovation no matter where you’re based.
>> Open a Bluevine Account for Your Small Business >>
10 Best Banks for Small Businesses in California
- Bluevine – Best Bank for Small Businesses in California
- Lili – Best for Freelancers & Solopreneurs
- Novo – Best Bank for Integrations & Invoicing
- Grasshopper – Best for Digital Transactions
- nbkc bank – Best for Cash Deposits
- Chase Business Banking – Best Bank for Sign-On Bonus
- Found – Best for Customer Service
- Mercury – Best for Online Banking
- Live Oak – Best Bank for SBA Loans
- Wise Business Banking – Best for International Payments
Best Banks for Small Business in California at a Glance
| Bank | Ranking Title (California Edition) | Why This Match Fits (Trimmed) | Free Monthly Transactions | Free Monthly Cash Deposit Limit |
| Bluevine | Best Overall for Small Businesses in California | No-fee checking, top APY, and sub-accounts — great for digital-first businesses across CA. | Unlimited (digital) | None directly; via Green Dot/Allpoint (fees apply) |
| Lili | Best for Solo Entrepreneurs & Freelancers | Streamlined tools, cashback debit, and strong mobile features ideal for freelancers. | Unlimited (digital) | None — deposits via retail stores with fee |
| Novo | Best for Online Payments & Invoicing | Easy invoicing, Stripe Boost, and 20 “Reserves” for budgeting — perfect for service-based businesses. | Unlimited ACH & debit | None — no cash deposit support |
| Grasshopper | Best Digital Bank for Startups | Supports tech/startup workflows with bill pay, expense tracking, and digital onboarding. | Unlimited digital | None — no cash deposit option |
| nbkc bank | Best Free Business Checking | Free account, unlimited transactions, and wires — ideal for budget-conscious owners. | Unlimited | Permitted via partner ATMs; no strict limit stated |
| Chase Business Banking | Best for Physical Cash Handling in California | Wide branch/ATM coverage across CA and solid small-biz support. | 20 per month | $5,000/mo, then $2.50 per $1,000 |
| Found | Best for Built-In Bookkeeping & Taxes | Automatic expense tracking and tax tools built for solo operators. | Unlimited (non-cash) | None — no cash/check deposits |
| Mercury | Best for VC-Backed Startups | API access, multi-user roles, and no-fee domestic wires — ideal for Bay Area tech teams. | Unlimited ACH & check | No physical cash deposits |
| Live Oak Bank | Best SBA Lender & High-Yield Savings | Remote SBA loan access and top-tier savings APY — great for growth. | Not for daily ops | None — no cash deposit service |
| Wise Business Banking | Best for Global Payments & Multi-Currency | International wire support, low FX, and multi-currency wallet make it ideal for global California firms. | Unlimited digital | No cash deposit support |
Bluevine – Best Overall Bank for Small Businesses in California
Bluevine is one of the top online business banking solutions for California-based entrepreneurs, offering high-yield checking, fee-free banking, and flexible credit options. Designed for modern small businesses, it combines essential financial tools with a fully digital experience.
Pros
- Earn up to 3.7% APY on balances up to $3 million with Bluevine Premier
- No monthly fees or minimum opening deposit for standard business checking
- Offers up to 5 free sub-accounts to organize funds
- Unlimited fee-free transactions (ACH, debit, transfers)
- Access to lines of credit for qualifying businesses
Cons
- No physical branches, digital-only support
- Cash deposits are allowed only via Green Dot or Allpoint+ ATMs, with third-party fees
- No ATM reimbursements or built-in Zelle integration
- No interest earnings on sub-accounts (Reserve)
Features
- High-yield checking: 1.5% APY on balances up to $250K (standard); 3.0–3.7% with Premier
- Sub-accounts: Create up to 5, each with its own routing/account number
- Bill pay and ACH tools: Schedule vendor payments easily through the dashboard
- Cash deposit support: Enabled through the Green Dot network (fees apply)
- Mobile app functionality: Transfer funds, pay bills, and view balances
- Account integrations: Connects with QuickBooks, Xero, Plaid, and more
- Live customer support: During business hours via chat and phone
- Additional services: Business loans (lines of credit), Premier upgrades, and card management
Mobile Banking App Reviews
Bluevine’s app is rated 4.4 stars on the App Store (based on ~10K+ reviews) and 4.2 stars on Google Play. Users highlight the smooth account setup, responsive support, and fast transactions. Some mention occasional delays with mobile check deposits or third-party ATM deposit fees.
Is Bluevine Right for You?
- A digital-first bank offering high interest on checking balances
- A fee-free experience with powerful business banking tools
- No transaction limits and a need to separate business income across sub-accounts
- Access to credit, with fast application and transparent pricing
Bluevine is an excellent choice for small business owners in California who prefer managing finances online. With a generous APY, no monthly fees, and advanced money management features, it’s perfect for freelancers, startups, and remote teams looking to keep their operations lean and liquid.
>> Bluevine: Trusted by 750K+ Businesses >>
Lili – Best Bank for Freelancers & Solopreneurs in California
Lili is a modern mobile banking platform designed for freelancers, sole proprietors, and independent business owners across California. With built-in tools for banking, taxes, invoicing, and expense tracking, Lili offers a seamless all-in-one experience ideal for those running lean operations from anywhere in the state.
Pros
- No monthly fees or minimum balance requirements with the standard account
- Automatic expense categorization and tax savings features
- In-app invoicing for creating and sending professional invoices
- Early access to payments via direct deposit (up to 2 days early)
- Real-time transaction alerts and mobile check deposit
- Visa Business Debit Card with free access to 38,000+ MoneyPass ATMs
- FDIC-insured through its partner bank
Cons
- No physical branches or in-person customer service
- Cash deposits only via Green Dot retail locations (fees apply)
- No multi-user access or sub-accounts for budgeting
- Limited accounting integrations compared to other platforms
- Interest is available only with paid plans like Lili Pro
Features
- Business Checking: No monthly fees, overdrafts, or minimums
- Tax Tools: Smart expense tagging, tax savings buckets, and quarterly estimates
- Invoicing: Create, send, and manage invoices from the mobile app
- Mobile Banking: Deposit checks, move money, and monitor activity with ease
- Early Pay: Get paid up to 2 days early via direct deposit
- Lili Pro & Smart Plans: Access up to 4.15% APY, cashback rewards, and advanced reporting
Mobile Banking App Reviews
Lili scores 4.7 stars on the App Store and 4.4 stars on Google Play, with California freelancers praising the ease of use, automated tools, and fast access to funds. Some users mention limited accounting integrations and fees tied to cash deposits as drawbacks.
Is Lili Right for You?
- You’re a California-based freelancer or solo entrepreneur looking for mobile-first banking
- You want built-in tools to manage taxes, send invoices, and automate savings
- You prefer a fee-free account with early access to payments
- You don’t need physical branch access or complex business banking features
Lili is a top choice for California solopreneurs seeking simplicity, speed, and smart automation, all in one app. It’s especially well-suited for gig workers, consultants, and creatives managing their own finances.
>> Start Banking Smarter With Lili >>
Novo – Best for Streamlined Business Banking & Integrations in California
Novo is a top-tier online business banking platform built for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and small business owners who prefer a fast, modern, and integration-friendly banking experience. With no monthly fees, powerful budgeting tools, and seamless software connectivity, Novo is an ideal choice for California-based businesses that operate primarily online and value efficiency.
Pros
- No monthly fees or minimum balance requirements
- Fast, fully digital account setup (often within minutes)
- Free incoming and outgoing ACH transfers, mailed checks, and incoming wires
- Extensive integration support: QuickBooks, Stripe, Shopify, Square, Zapier, and more
- Allocate funds into up to 20 budget “pockets” for expense planning
- Refunds all ATM fees worldwide
- Real-time transaction tracking and app-based controls
Cons
- No physical branches, entirely online
- No option to deposit cash directly (must use workarounds like money orders)
- Doesn’t offer interest on balances
- No built-in lending or credit products
- Limited check deposit functionality (mobile-only and occasional delays)
Features
- Business Checking: No monthly fees, minimums, or hidden charges
- Novo Reserves: Set aside money in up to 20 customizable buckets for taxes, savings, or specific goals
- Invoice & Payment Tools: Send invoices directly from the app and accept ACH, card, or Stripe payments
- ATM Reimbursements: Unlimited fee refunds on ATM withdrawals worldwide
- App Control: Instantly freeze/unfreeze your card, transfer funds, or view insights
- Integrations: Seamlessly connects with business tools like QuickBooks, Slack, Stripe, Square, Etsy, and Zapier
Mobile Banking App Reviews
Novo’s mobile app is rated 4.7 stars on the App Store and 4.6 stars on Google Play, praised for its intuitive interface, responsive support, and smooth integrations with e-commerce and accounting tools. Some users report occasional delays with mobile check deposits, but overall satisfaction is high among digital-first users.
Is Novo Right for You?
- You operate a fully digital business in California and don’t require cash deposits or branch visits
- You want zero fees, fast setup, and smooth integration with your existing tools
- You need easy budgeting tools, invoicing features, and real-time transaction visibility
- You don’t need interest-bearing accounts or business credit lines
Novo is a strong pick for California entrepreneurs who want a clean, app-based banking experience without fees or complexity. It’s especially well-suited for freelancers, consultants, and e-commerce sellers who rely on automation and integrations to streamline their finances.
>> Simplify Your Business Finances With Novo >>
Grasshopper – Best for Digital-First Businesses & Tech Startups in California
Grasshopper Bank is a modern, FDIC-insured digital bank built for startups, small businesses, and solopreneurs. With a sleek interface, interest-earning checking, cashback rewards, and seamless integrations, all without monthly fees, Grasshopper is especially attractive to California’s tech-savvy entrepreneurs looking for smart, scalable financial tools.
Pros
- Earn up to 2.25% APY on balances up to $250,000
- No monthly fees or minimum balance requirements
- Unlimited fee-free ACH transfers, payments, and incoming wires
- Unlimited virtual and physical debit cards
- Up to 1% cashback on debit purchases with qualifying activity
- Integrates with QuickBooks, Gusto, Plaid, and more
- Built-in invoicing and payment tools
- Tailored for startups, freelancers, and digital-first founders
Cons
- No physical branches or in-person support
- No support for cash deposits
- No mobile check deposit support currently
- No business loans or credit lines
Features
- High-Yield Checking – Earn up to 2.25% APY with no balance tiers
- Founder-Friendly Interface – Clean dashboard with built-in startup tools
- Unlimited Debit Cards – Issue cards with team-level spending controls
- Cashback Rewards – Earn up to 1% back on eligible business spending
- Bill Pay & Invoicing – Send and track payments directly from your account
- Integrations – Connect easily with QuickBooks, Plaid, Gusto, and more
Mobile Banking App Reviews
Grasshopper’s app is rated 4.6 on the App Store and 4.5 on Google Play, with users highlighting its intuitive design and business-focused tools. Some mention that mobile check deposit is still a missing feature.
Is Grasshopper Right for You?
- You want a fully digital bank with strong APY and no monthly fees
- You run a startup, freelance business, or modern agency
- You value integrated invoicing, expense management, and cashback
- You don’t need to deposit cash or visit a physical branch
Grasshopper is a smart pick for California-based business owners seeking a streamlined, online-first banking experience. With no hidden fees, strong digital tools, and competitive interest, it’s especially ideal for founders and creatives working in a fast-paced, tech-driven environment.
>> Start Banking Smarter With Grasshopper >>
nbkc bank – Best for Low-Fee Banking With Hybrid Access in California
nbkc bank (National Bank of Kansas City) combines the simplicity of digital banking with the reliability of a traditional bank. With transparent pricing, no monthly fees, and strong customer service, it’s a solid choice for California-based businesses that want low-cost banking and access to key financial tools, even without local branches.
Pros
- No monthly maintenance fees or minimum balance requirements
- Free incoming wires, ACH transfers, and bill pay
- Access to over 37,000 fee-free ATMs via the MoneyPass network
- Supports cash deposits through compatible ATM networks
- Integrates with QuickBooks and Autobooks for invoicing and accounting
- Live customer support via phone, chat, or email
- Offers business savings and CDs in addition to checking
Cons
- Only one physical branch (Kansas City, MO), so no local in-person support in California
- No APY on standard checking accounts
- Cash deposits require access to specific ATMs, no Green Dot or retail partners
- Limited digital tools compared to newer Fintech platforms
Features
- Business Checking – No monthly fees, overdraft charges, or minimum balance minimums
- Savings Options – Access to business money market accounts and CDs
- ATM Access – Over 37,000 MoneyPass ATMs available nationwide
- Invoicing Tools – Integrated Autobooks support for invoicing and payments
- Mobile & Online Banking – Clean dashboard for deposits, transfers, and alerts
- Integrations – Works with QuickBooks, Plaid, Autobooks, and more
- Customer Support – Responsive, U.S.-based help from real people
Mobile Banking App Reviews
nbkc’s mobile app is rated 4.6 stars on the App Store and 4.5 stars on Google Play. Users highlight the intuitive design, no-fee banking, and responsive support. Some note that while it’s reliable, it lacks some of the slick tools found in Fintech-only platforms.
Is nbkc bank Right for You?
- You want transparent, fee-free business banking without surprise charges
- You prefer digital banking with real human support
- You value invoicing tools and wide ATM access across California
- You don’t need in-person branch access or interest-bearing checking
nbkc bank is a great fit for California small business owners who want straightforward, low-cost banking with solid digital tools and dependable service, even without a local branch presence.
>> Start Banking Smarter With nbkc bank >>
Chase Business Banking – Best for California Businesses Needing Full-Service & Branch Access
Chase Business Banking brings the scale, stability, and resources of a major national bank, making it an ideal fit for small businesses across California. With a wide network of branches in both urban and suburban areas, Chase supports a full range of business needs, from daily banking to credit, lending, and payment solutions.
Pros
- Access to 4,700+ branches and 15,000+ ATMs nationwide, including strong coverage throughout California
- Multiple business checking options tailored to different transaction volumes and balance levels
- Seamless integration with Chase QuickAccept® for accepting card payments
- Built-in Zelle® for Business for fast peer-to-peer or client transfers
- Robust lending suite including SBA loans, lines of credit, and business credit cards
- Integrates easily with accounting tools like QuickBooks and Xero
- Advanced fraud protection and account security
Cons
- Monthly fees ($15–$95) unless waived by balance or activity
- No interest earned on standard business checking accounts
- Lower-tier accounts have limited free transactions (e.g., 20–100 per month)
- Cash deposit limits, unless on a higher-tier plan
- A mobile app may be complex for users new to business banking
Features
- Business Checking Options – Choose from Business Complete, Performance, or Platinum depending on your needs
- Merchant Services – Accept card payments with Chase QuickAccept® and get same-day access to funds
- Zelle® for Business – Send and receive payments quickly between clients or vendors
- Mobile Banking – Deposit checks, pay bills, transfer funds, and monitor accounts
- Lending Options – Apply for SBA loans, lines of credit, and other financing solutions
- Accounting Integrations – Connect easily with QuickBooks, Xero, and other tools
- Customer Service – Access in-branch support, 24/7 phone help, and dedicated business specialists
Mobile Banking App Reviews
Chase’s mobile app scores 4.8 stars on the App Store and 4.4 on Google Play. Users appreciate its reliability, full-service functionality, and strong mobile deposit tools. Some report that navigating the app’s business features can take some learning.
Is Chase Business Banking Right for You?
- You want access to physical branches and cash services across California
- You run a business that accepts in-person payments or frequently deposits cash
- You’re looking for an established bank with comprehensive lending options
- You’re comfortable meeting balance or transaction thresholds to avoid fees
Chase Business Banking is a top-tier option for California businesses that need both digital tools and in-person banking. Its wide range of services, deep lending capabilities, and state-wide branch access make it a reliable long-term partner for growing and established businesses alike.
>> Start Banking Smarter With Chase Business >>
Found – Best for Freelancers & Sole Proprietors in California
Found is a mobile-first business banking platform designed for freelancers, gig workers, and sole proprietors across California. With no monthly fees, built-in tax tools, and streamlined expense tracking, Found makes it easy to stay financially organized and tax-ready, all within a single app, without the need for extra software.
Pros
- No monthly fees, overdraft fees, or minimum balance requirements
- Automatic expense tracking and tax categorization
- Built-in tax estimates and savings suggestions
- In-app invoicing and payment tracking
- Early access to direct deposits (up to 2 days early)
- Free access to 40,000+ Allpoint ATMs
- Option to receive payments via ACH, check, or card
- FDIC-insured through Piermont Bank
Cons
- Not suitable for LLCs with multiple members or incorporated businesses
- No sub-accounts or multi-user access
- Limited accounting software integrations
- No interest-earning options on checking or savings
- Cash deposits aren’t supported
Features
- Business Checking – Mobile-based with debit card and ATM access
- Tax Tools – Auto-categorization, savings guidance, and quarterly tax estimates
- Invoicing – Create, send, and track invoices within the app
- Notifications – Real-time alerts for transactions and deposits
- Card Management – Instantly freeze or unfreeze cards, upload receipts
- Reports – Built-in profit & loss, transaction exports, and tax summaries
Mobile Banking App Reviews
Found earns strong reviews, with 4.8 stars on the App Store and 4.6 on Google Play. Users in California highlight the app’s simplicity, ease of invoicing, and tax tracking. Some note that cash deposit limitations and lack of advanced integrations may be a downside for more complex businesses.
Is Found Right for You?
- You’re a freelancer, 1099 contractor, or solo entrepreneur
- You want built-in tax, invoicing, and expense tools in one place
- You don’t need physical branch access or advanced banking features
- You prefer straightforward, fee-free mobile banking designed for self-employed Californians
Found is a smart choice for California freelancers who want a lightweight, all-in-one solution for managing income, tracking expenses, and staying on top of taxes, without the overhead of traditional business banking.
>> Manage Your Business Easily With Found >>
Mercury – Best for California Startups & Tech-Driven Businesses
Mercury is a digital-first banking platform built for startups and high-growth companies across California. With no fees, modern financial tools, and deep integration capabilities, Mercury is a strong fit for the state’s thriving tech and SaaS ecosystem. It’s especially ideal for founders who value automation, scalability, and API control over traditional branch access.
Pros
- No monthly fees, overdrafts, or minimum balance requirements
- Includes digital checking and savings accounts
- Earn up to 5.45% APY via Mercury Treasury (not standard savings)
- Create sub-accounts for budgeting, projects, or departments
- Virtual and physical debit cards with spend limits
- Multi-user access with customizable permissions
- Integrates with QuickBooks, Xero, Zapier, Plaid, and more
- Access to startup tools and investor perks via Mercury Raise
- FDIC-insured via partner banks
Cons
- No physical branches or cash deposit support
- Interest is only earned through Treasury, not on standard savings
- International wires may incur fees
- Not designed for businesses needing checks or in-person service
Features
- Digital Banking – Free checking and savings with a clean online dashboard
- Mercury Treasury – Invest idle funds automatically for up to 5.45% APY
- Cash Management – Segment and automate fund movement across sub-accounts
- User Controls – Assign team roles like admin, bookkeeper, or viewer
- API Access – Automate workflows and connect to internal tools
- International Transfers – Send/receive wires in USD and select currencies
- Integrations – Sync with major accounting and business platforms
Mobile Banking App Reviews
Mercury scores 4.9 stars on the App Store and 4.7 on Google Play. Users love the intuitive web interface and startup-friendly features. Some note that the mobile app isn’t as full-featured as the desktop version.
Is Mercury Right for You?
- You run a startup, SaaS, or VC-backed company in California
- You want a modern, no-fee platform with advanced digital controls
- You don’t handle cash or require branch visits
- You value APIs, sub-accounts, and automation over traditional services
Mercury is a top pick for California’s tech-forward businesses looking to scale efficiently. With robust controls, high-yield treasury tools, and deep integrations, it’s purpose-built for the digital age.
>> Start Banking Smarter With Mercury >>
Live Oak Bank – Best for High-Yield Savings & SBA Loans in California
Live Oak Bank is an online-only, FDIC-insured bank specializing in high-yield business savings and SBA lending. Perfect for California businesses with large reserves or long-term funding needs, Live Oak offers strong APY and lending expertise, even though it doesn’t support day-to-day checking.
Pros
- Earn up to 4.00% APY on business savings
- No monthly fees or minimums on savings accounts
- Top-rated SBA lender for 7(a), 504, and USDA loans
- Fast, fully digital application and funding process
- Competitive business CD rates
- Access to industry-specific lending experts
- FDIC-insured through Live Oak Bank
Cons
- No checking account or day-to-day payment tools
- No physical branches or cash/check deposits
- Limited integrations and no debit card access
- Not ideal as a primary business bank
Features
- High-Yield Savings – Up to 4.00% APY with no fees or minimums
- Business CDs – Lock in fixed rates for long-term savings
- SBA Lending – Expert guidance on SBA 7(a), 504, and USDA loans
- Digital Onboarding – Paperless account and loan setup
- Dedicated Support – Access to knowledgeable loan officers
- Mobile Dashboard – Manage savings and loans online or via app
Mobile Banking App Reviews
Live Oak earns 4.7 stars on the App Store and 4.5 stars on Google Play. California users appreciate the ease of managing savings and applying for loans, but some would like to see full-service checking added.
Is Live Oak Right for You?
- You want to grow your business savings at a competitive rate
- You’re planning an expansion and need SBA funding
- You already have a primary checking account elsewhere
- You’re comfortable with a fully online experience
Live Oak Bank is an excellent secondary option for California business owners seeking to maximize interest and access trusted loan programs. It’s best paired with another account for everyday banking.
>> Start Banking Smarter With Live Oak Bank >>
Wise Business – Best for International Payments & Global Reach in California
Wise Business (formerly TransferWise) is a leading Fintech platform that provides borderless banking tailored for businesses with global operations. It’s especially valuable for freelancers, remote teams, and California-based companies that work with international clients or vendors.
With transparent currency exchange rates, multi-currency accounts, and local bank details in several countries, Wise simplifies global payments for West Coast businesses looking to scale beyond borders.
Pros
- Hold and convert 40+ currencies with real exchange rates
- Get local bank details in the U.S., UK, EU, Australia, and more
- Low, transparent international transfer fees—often 6–8x cheaper than traditional banks
- No monthly fees or minimum balances
- Send global payouts and invoices in multiple currencies
- Integrates with QuickBooks, Xero, and other accounting platforms
- A debit card is available for global spending and travel
Cons
- Not a full-service U.S. bank—no FDIC insurance
- No support for cash or check deposits
- Limited U.S. domestic banking features (e.g., no mobile check deposits)
- No lending, credit lines, or interest-earning accounts
- Customer support is primarily handled via email
Features
- Multi-Currency Account: Hold, send, and receive in 40+ currencies
- Global Bank Details: Access local account numbers in 9+ countries
- International Invoicing: Create and track invoices in foreign currencies
- Borderless Debit Card: Spend globally with mid-market exchange rates
- Real-Time Currency Conversion: Transparent FX with low fees
- Integrations: Connect with QuickBooks, Xero, and other business tools
Mobile Banking App Reviews
Wise’s app is highly rated, with 4.7 stars on the App Store and 4.6 stars on Google Play. Users love the fast international transfers, simple interface, and global money management. Some users have noted occasional delays with email-based customer support.
Is Wise Business Right for You?
- You regularly send or receive international payments
- You need multi-currency support and transparent exchange fees
- You don’t rely on physical banking features like cash deposits
- You’re a freelancer, consultant, or business with overseas clients or vendors
Wise Business is a top-tier choice for California entrepreneurs and businesses managing cross-border transactions. While it’s not a traditional bank, it’s one of the most efficient and affordable platforms for international money movement.
>> Start Banking Smarter With Wise >>
Methodology for the Best Banks for Small Businesses in California
To create this list of the best banks for small businesses in California, I focused on what business owners need, not just flashy features or marketing claims. From cash-handling retailers in L.A. to tech startups in San Francisco, I looked at the practical banking elements that matter most when running a business in California’s diverse economy.
- Mobile & Online Access: In a fast-moving business environment like California, managing finances on the go is non-negotiable. I prioritized banks with intuitive mobile apps, responsive dashboards, and online-first account access that save time and simplify money management.
- Low Fees: Monthly fees, ACH charges, and transaction costs can add up fast. I focused on banks that offer no-fee or low-fee structures, along with transparent pricing and easy ways to avoid charges.
- Access to Lending: I evaluated which banks provide realistic, accessible lending options, whether that’s SBA loans, lines of credit, or working capital. This is especially critical for growth-stage companies and seasonal businesses.
- Minimum Balance Requirements: Some banks have high deposit minimums that just don’t make sense for new or lean operations. I gave preference to institutions with low or no minimum balance requirements, ensuring accessibility for startups and solo entrepreneurs.
- Customer Reviews: To understand how these banks perform day-to-day, I factored in real user reviews from the App Store, Google Play, and platforms like Trustpilot. Reliability, customer support, and app performance were all taken into account.
- Ease of Use & Setup: Opening a business account shouldn’t be a hassle. I looked for banks with fast, paperless onboarding, easy-to-navigate platforms, and clear customer service support when issues arise.
- Cash Deposit Options: While many businesses are digital, plenty in California still deal with cash. I made sure to include banks that support ATM deposits or retail cash networks, with reasonable fees and access.
- Interest Earnings: Accounts that offer competitive APY, especially on checking or savings balances, earn extra credit. Every bit of passive income helps, particularly for businesses with higher cash flow.
- Software & Platform Integrations: I prioritized banks that work with popular tools like QuickBooks, Xero, Stripe, and Shopify, because smooth financial operations often depend on solid integrations.
- In-Person Support: While I lean digital-first, I also considered traditional banks with strong branch networks or live customer support, which some California businesses still depend on.
>> Earn Up to 3.7% APY on Business Checking >>
Best Banks for Small Businesses in California – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Still unsure which bank is the best fit for your California-based business? Here are answers to some of the most common questions entrepreneurs ask when choosing a business banking partner in the Golden State:
What Is the Best Bank for Small Businesses in California?
Every business has different needs, but the banks featured in this list are among the strongest options for California-based entrepreneurs. Whether you’re launching a startup in Silicon Valley, running a boutique in LA, or freelancing remotely, these banks offer the tools, flexibility, and support to help your business succeed.
Are Local Banks Better for Small Businesses?
Local banks can be a smart choice if you value personalized service, relationship-based lending, or the ability to visit a nearby branch. That said, many California business owners are turning to online banks and Fintechs for their low fees, mobile features, and ease of use. It really comes down to your specific workflow and preferences.
Do I Need Good Credit to Open a Business Bank Account?
Not necessarily. Some banks, especially Fintechs, allow you to open a business account without a credit check. However, you’re still expected to manage your account responsibly. Frequent overdrafts or unusual activity could lead to restrictions or closures, regardless of credit score.
Do Banks in California Offer Loans to Startups?
Yes, many banks in California offer loans to startups, though approval can depend on your business plan, cash flow, and time in operation. Traditional banks may be more conservative, while Fintechs and online lenders may approve smaller loans with faster applications and fewer requirements.
Which Bank Is Most Popular Among California Businesses?
Chase and Bank of America are among the most widely used due to their extensive branch networks across California. However, many startups and freelancers also turn to Fintech platforms like Bluevine or Mercury for digital convenience and fee-free services.
>> Bluevine: Simplify Your Small Business Banking >>
Bottom Line: Best Banks for Small Businesses in California
The right banking partner depends on how your business operates: digitally, locally, or a mix of both. I created this list specifically for small businesses in California, focusing on value, flexibility, and real-world usability.
From Chase’s statewide branch presence to Fintechs like Bluevine and Mercury, there’s something here for every kind of business. Whether you’re a freelancer in Los Angeles or a shop owner in Sacramento, these options suit a variety of business models. Choose the one that fits your goals and the way you prefer to manage your finances.
