In researching business banking solutions, I analyzed numerous financial institutions and identified the 10 best banks for small businesses in New York. These banks offer exceptional business checking accounts, competitive deposit options, merchant services, and seamless software integrations. Many also maintain physical branches across key economic regions, providing convenient access to in-person support when needed.
To offer a well-rounded perspective, I also included several financial technology companies (Fintechs) tailored for entrepreneurs who prefer an online-only banking experience. These platforms deliver modern features, low fees, and robust didefigital tools ideal for today’s fast-paced business environment.
While my primary focus was on institutions with a physical presence in New York, I also considered national banks and Fintech providers that offer outstanding business banking products available across the U.S. These alternatives provide flexibility, innovation, and reliability, regardless of location.
>> Open a Bluevine Account for Your Small Business >>
Top 10 Banks for Small Businesses in New York
- Bluevine – Best Overall Bank for Small Businesses in New York
- Lili – Best for Freelancers & Solopreneurs
- Novo – Best Bank for Integrations & Invoicing
- Grasshopper – Best for Digital Transactions
- nbkc bank – Best Bank for Cash Deposits
- Chase Business Banking – Best for Sign-On Bonus
- Found – Best Bank for Customer Service
- Mercury – Best Online Banking
- Live Oak – Best Bank for SBA Loans
- Wise Business Banking – Best for International Payments
Best Banks for Small Business in New York at a Glance
Bank | Assigned Ranking Title | Why This Match Fits | Free Monthly Transactions | Free Monthly Cash Deposit Limit |
Bluevine | Best Bank for Customer Service | Clean UI, fast support, and helpful tools make banking simple. | Unlimited (digital only) | None directly; via Green Dot/Allpoint with fees |
Lili | Best for Digital Transactions | Real-time alerts, cashback debit, and great for freelancers. | Unlimited (digital) | None — cash via retail partners (fee applies) |
Novo | Best Bank for Sign-On Bonus | Delivers value with free tools, perks, and Stripe Boost. | Unlimited ACH & debit | None — doesn’t support cash deposits |
Grasshopper | Best for Rewards | Cashback debit, invoicing, and smooth digital experience. | Unlimited digital | None — no cash support |
nbkc bank | Best Bank for Small Businesses | Free account with unlimited transactions and solid support. | Unlimited | Allowed via ATMs; no clear stated cap |
Chase Business Banking | Best Bank for Cash Deposits | Trusted branches, great cash handling, and a sign-up bonus. | 20 per month | $5,000/mo, then $2.50 per $1,000 |
Found | Best for Online Banking | Simple, freelancer-friendly with built-in tax tools. | Unlimited (non-cash) | None — no cash/check deposits |
Mercury | Best Bank for Digital Transactions | Ideal for startups: free wires, user controls, and APIs. | Unlimited ACH & check | No cash deposits supported |
Live Oak | Best for Sign-On Bonus | Great APY and SBA loans offer long-term financial value. | Not ideal for daily ops | No physical cash deposits |
Wise Business Banking | Best Bank for Online Banking | Excellent for global businesses with low FX and multi-currency tools. | Unlimited digital | No cash deposit support |
Bluevine – Best Overall Bank for Small Businesses in New York
Bluevine stands out as one of the best online business banking solutions, offering high-yield checking, fee-free digital banking, and flexible credit options, all tailored for modern small businesses.
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 enjoy the streamlined account setup, responsive support, and fast transfers. Some note occasional delays with mobile check deposits and third-party cash 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 ideal for small business owners who prefer online banking and want their money to grow while staying liquid. With generous APY, no fees, and advanced money management tools, it’s a top choice for entrepreneurs and freelancers alike.
>> Bluevine: Trusted by 750K+ Businesses >>
Lili – Best Bank for Freelancers & Solopreneurs
Lili is a modern, all-in-one mobile banking platform designed specifically for freelancers, sole proprietors, and small business owners. With features that blend business checking, expense tracking, tax tools, and invoicing in one app, Lili offers a streamlined financial experience tailored for the self-employed.
Pros
- No monthly fees or minimum balance requirements with the standard account
- Automatic expense categorization and tax savings
- Integrated invoicing feature for creating and sending professional invoices
- Early access to payments with direct deposit (up to 2 days early)
- Real-time transaction alerts and mobile check deposit
- Visa Business Debit Card with fee-free access to 38,000+ MoneyPass ATMs
- FDIC-insured through a partner bank
Cons
- No physical branches or in-person support
- Cash deposits are available only via Green Dot retail locations (fees apply)
- No multi-user access or sub-account structure
- Limited integrations with accounting platforms compared to competitors
Features
- Business Checking: No fees, overdraft charges, or minimum balance requirements.
- Tax Tools: Expense tagging, tax bucket savings, and quarterly tax estimates.
- Invoicing: Send, track, and manage client invoices directly from the app.
- Mobile Banking: Intuitive app with check deposit, fund transfers, and notifications.
- Early Pay: Get paid up to 2 days early via direct deposit.
- Lili Pro & Smart Plans (paid tiers): Access to interest-bearing accounts (up to 4.15% APY), more advanced tools, and cashback rewards.
Mobile Banking App Reviews
Lili earns strong ratings for its simplicity and freelancer-focused features, scoring around 4.7 stars on the App Store and 4.4 stars on Google Play. Users appreciate the ease of use, built-in expense tracking, and invoicing. However, some mention limits in accounting integrations and challenges with cash deposit availability.
Is Lili Right for You?
- You’re a freelancer or solo entrepreneur looking for simple, mobile-first business banking.
- You want built-in tools to manage taxes, send invoices, and automate savings
- You prefer no-fee banking with early direct deposit access
- You don’t need physical branch support or advanced integrations
Lili is ideal for solopreneurs who value convenience, automation, and a unified platform for managing both business banking and finances. It’s a strong choice for those who want to keep their operations lean, paperless, and stress-free during tax season.
>> Start Banking Smarter With Lili >>
Novo – Best for Streamlined Business Banking & Integrations
Novo is a popular online business banking platform built for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small business owners who want a fast, modern, and integration-friendly banking experience. With no monthly fees, seamless app-based control, and robust third-party integrations, Novo helps businesses manage money, invoices, and software connections effortlessly.
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
- Novo Reserves: 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 integration with e-commerce and accounting platforms. Some users report occasional delays with mobile check deposits, but overall satisfaction is high for its ease of use and digital features.
Is Novo Right for You?
- You operate a fully digital business and don’t require branch visits or cash deposits
- You value zero fees, easy integrations, and a fast, app-driven experience
- You need tools to automate savings, send invoices, and keep your business finances organized
- You don’t need interest earnings or access to business loans
Novo is an excellent choice for tech-savvy entrepreneurs and freelancers who want a clean, efficient business banking experience. With zero fees, smart features, and deep software integrations, it’s especially powerful for online sellers, consultants, and service-based businesses.
>> Simplify Your Business Finances With Novo >>
Grasshopper – Best for Digital-First Businesses & Tech Startups
Grasshopper Bank is a modern, FDIC-insured digital bank built for startups, small businesses, and solopreneurs. It offers a sleek digital interface, interest-earning checking, cash-back rewards, and powerful integrations, all without monthly fees. Grasshopper is especially appealing to tech-savvy business owners looking for growth tools and a high-yield account experience.
Pros
- Earn up to 2.25% APY on balances up to $250,000
- No monthly maintenance fees or minimum balance requirements
- Unlimited fee-free ACH transfers, payments, and incoming wires
- Access to unlimited virtual and physical debit cards
- Up to 1% cash back on debit card purchases with qualifying activity
- Integrates with tools like QuickBooks, Gusto, and Plaid
- Built-in invoicing and payment tools
- Strong focus on tech companies, freelancers, and early-stage founders
Cons
- No physical branch access, fully digital banking
- No support for cash deposits
- No mobile check deposit support as of now
- No built-in lending or credit lines
Features
- High-Yield Checking: Earn up to 2.25% APY on balances up to $250K (no tiers)
- Startup-Focused Interface: Built for founders with integrated financial tools and user-friendly dashboard
- Unlimited Cards: Issue multiple debit cards with unique spending limits for team members
- Cashback Rewards: Up to 1% cash back on eligible debit card purchases with $10K+ in monthly spending
- Bill Pay & Invoicing: Send invoices, receive ACH or card payments directly through your dashboard
- Integrations: Connect seamlessly with platforms like QuickBooks, Plaid, and more for accounting and payroll
Mobile Banking App Reviews
Grasshopper’s app receives 4.6 stars on the App Store and 4.5 stars on Google Play, with users praising the intuitive design, business tools, and fast account access. Some users note limited functionality compared to larger banks, particularly around mobile check deposits.
Is Grasshopper Right for You?
- You want a fully digital banking solution with strong APY and no monthly fees
- You’re a startup, freelancer, or small business seeking invoicing, expense tools, and modern integrations
- You’re interested in cashback rewards for business spending
- You don’t need to deposit cash or visit physical branches
Grasshopper is an excellent choice for forward-thinking business owners who want a digital-first, feature-rich banking experience. With high interest, no hidden fees, and strong expense and card tools, it’s especially well-suited for founders, consultants, and creative professionals.
>> Start Banking Smarter With Grasshopper >>
nbkc bank – Best for Low-Fee Banking With Hybrid Access
nbkc bank (National Bank of Kansas City) offers a powerful blend of online banking convenience and traditional banking reliability. Known for its low fees, transparent pricing, and strong customer service, nbkc is a great choice for small businesses that want digital flexibility with access to physical banking services.
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 via compatible ATMs
- Integrates with tools like QuickBooks and Autobooks for invoicing and accounting
- Live customer support via phone, chat, or email
- Offers business savings and CD options alongside checking
Cons
- Limited in-person access
- No APY on standard checking accounts
- Cash deposits may require ATM network access, but no retail partner support like Green Dot
- Limited advanced digital tools compared to Fintechs
Features
- Business Checking: No monthly fees, minimums, or overdraft charges
- Savings Options: Business money market accounts and CDs for longer-term savings
- ATM Access: Use 37,000+ MoneyPass ATMs nationwide fee-free
- Invoicing Tools: Integrated with Autobooks for creating and sending invoices
- Mobile & Online Banking: Intuitive dashboard with check deposit, transfers, and alerts
- Integrations: Compatible with QuickBooks, Autobooks, and Plaid
- Customer Service: Responsive support by real people, not bots
Mobile Banking App Reviews
nbkc’s app holds solid ratings with 4.6 stars on the App Store and 4.5 stars on Google Play. Customers appreciate the user-friendly design, real-person support, and no-fee structure. A few users mention that mobile features, while reliable, aren’t as advanced as those from Fintech-only banks.
Is nbkc bank Right for You?
- You want transparent, fee-free business banking with no surprises
- You prefer a bank that offers both online access and real-person support
- You value invoicing tools and ATM access, even if branch access is limited
- You don’t need high interest yields or advanced budgeting features
nbkc bank is ideal for small business owners who appreciate traditional banking values delivered through a digital-first experience. Its simplicity, honest pricing, and dependable service make it a smart option for those who want low-cost banking without sacrificing reliability.
>> Start Banking Smarter With nbkc bank >>
Chase Business Banking – Best for Nationwide Branch Access & Full-Service Banking
Chase Business Banking combines the scale and security of a major national bank with an array of business banking services. From flexible checking options to merchant services and lending, Chase is ideal for business owners who want in-person support, physical branches, and deep financial product offerings, all backed by a trusted name.
Pros
- Access to 4,700+ branches and 15,000+ ATMs nationwide
- Multiple business checking account tiers to fit different needs
- Seamless integration with Chase QuickAccept® for accepting credit card payments
- Built-in Zelle for Business for fast payments
- Access to lines of credit, SBA loans, commercial real estate loans, and business credit cards
- Easy connection with accounting tools like QuickBooks and Xero
- Excellent fraud protection and security features
Cons
- Monthly fees ($15–$95/month) unless balance or activity requirements are met
- No interest earnings on standard business checking accounts
- Limited fee-free transactions on lower-tier accounts (e.g., 20–100/month)
- Cash deposit limits apply unless using higher-tier plans
- Mobile apps can feel complex for new users compared to Fintechs
Features
- Business Checking Options: Choose from Chase Business Complete, Performance, or Platinum Checking based on your transaction and balance needs
- Merchant Services: Accept card payments via Chase QuickAccept® with same-day deposits to your account
- Zelle® Integration: Send and receive business payments quickly and securely
- Mobile App: Deposit checks, transfer funds, pay bills, and monitor activity
- Business Lending: Offers working capital lines, equipment financing, SBA loans, and more
- Account Integrations: Sync with QuickBooks, Xero, and other business platforms
- Customer Support: In-branch service, 24/7 phone support, and business specialists
Mobile Banking App Reviews
Chase’s mobile app is highly rated, with 4.8 stars on the App Store and 4.4 stars on Google Play. Users praise the app’s stability, mobile check deposit, and full-service capabilities. Some note that navigating business features takes time due to the platform’s breadth.
Is Chase Business Banking Right for You?
- You want branch access, cash deposit support, and a full suite of business services
- You run a business that accepts in-person payments or needs physical banking services
- You’re looking for a reputable, established bank with business credit and lending options
- You’re okay with meeting balance/activity thresholds to waive fees
Chase Business Banking is a strong choice for established businesses, retailers, or entrepreneurs who need a full-service banking partner with nationwide reach. With robust financial products, merchant tools, and in-person support, Chase delivers a traditional banking experience in both digital and physical formats.
>> Start Banking Smarter With Chase Business >>
Found – Best for Freelancers & Sole Proprietors Seeking Built-In Tax Tools
Found is a mobile-first business banking platform for freelancers, gig workers, and sole proprietors. With no monthly fees, integrated expense tracking, and powerful tax tools, Found simplifies business finances, helping self-employed individuals stay organized and tax-ready without needing separate 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 (partner institution)
Cons
- No support for LLCs with multiple members or corporations
- No sub-accounts or multi-user access
- Limited accounting integrations (no QuickBooks, Xero, etc.)
- No interest-earning checking or savings
- Cash deposits aren’t supported
Features
- Business Checking: Free, mobile-based, with debit card and ATM access
- Tax Tools: Estimate quarterly taxes, auto-categorize transactions, and set aside funds
- Invoicing: Create and send invoices directly in the app, and track payment status
- Instant Notifications: Real-time alerts on spending and deposits
- Card Management: Freeze/unfreeze cards, track purchases, manage receipts
- Built-in Reports: Access profit & loss statements, transaction exports, and tax summaries
Mobile Banking App Reviews
Found’s app is highly rated, with 4.8 stars on the App Store and 4.6 stars on Google Play. Users love the clean design, ease of use, and how it simplifies tax season. A few users note limited integrations and the lack of cash deposit options.
Is Found Right for You?
- You’re a freelancer, 1099 contractor, or solo entrepreneur
- You want built-in tools for taxes, invoicing, and expense tracking, all in one app
- You don’t need access to physical branches or complex business banking features
- You prefer simple, fee-free mobile banking without paperwork or add-ons
Found is an ideal fit for self-employed professionals looking for a minimalist, all-in-one financial platform that combines banking and bookkeeping. It’s particularly strong for freelancers who want to save time managing taxes and invoicing without using separate apps.
>> Manage Your Business Easily With Found >>
Mercury – Best for Startups & Tech-Forward Businesses
Mercury is a digital banking platform built specifically for startups, tech companies, and high-growth businesses. With no monthly fees, seamless user permissions, advanced cash management tools, and API access, Mercury is a standout choice for modern businesses that need scalability and automation, not physical branches.
Pros
- No monthly fees, overdraft charges, or minimum balance requirements
- Includes checking and savings accounts, both fully digital
- Up to 5.45% APY on idle cash via Mercury Treasury (sweep program, not standard savings)
- Create sub-accounts to manage budgets, team spend, or project funding
- Virtual and physical debit cards with custom spending controls
- Excellent multi-user access with role-based permissions
- Integrates with QuickBooks, Xero, Zapier, and more
- Access to startup tools, venture capital network, and perks via Mercury Raise
- FDIC-insured via partner banks (Evolve Bank & Trust and Choice Financial Group)
Cons
- No physical branches or in-person support
- No cash deposit support
- Interest earnings are only available via Treasury, not regular savings
- Wire transfers outside the U.S. may incur fees
- Not ideal for businesses that require checkbooks or retail banking services
Features
- Digital Business Banking: Includes free checking and savings intuitive dashboard
- Mercury Treasury: Automatically invest idle funds to earn up to 5.45% APY (for balances over $500K)
- Cash Management: Segment funds, automate transfers, and track spend with clarity
- User Controls: Invite team members and assign custom permissions (admin, bookkeeper, viewer, etc.)
- API Access: For automating financial operations and building custom workflows
- International Payments: Send and receive wires in USD and select foreign currencies
- Integrations: QuickBooks, Xero, Plaid, Zapier, and custom API workflows
Mobile Banking App Reviews
Mercury’s platform is optimized for web use, but the mobile experience is rated well with 4.9 stars on the App Store and 4.7 on Google Play. Users highlight the clean interface, strong security, and support quality. However, some note that the mobile app isn’t as robust as the web platform.
Is Mercury Right for You?
- You run a tech startup, SaaS company, or digital-first business
- You want a modern, no-fee banking solution with powerful automations
- You don’t need to deposit cash or visit branches
- You value cash management tools, team permissions, and API access
Mercury is ideal for founders and startups that want to manage their finances with precision and scale. With deep integrations, flexible tools, and high-yield treasury options, Mercury is a top choice for innovative businesses and venture-backed companies.
>> Start Banking Smarter With Mercury >>
Live Oak Bank – Best for High-Yield Savings and SBA Loans
Live Oak Bank is an FDIC-insured, digital-first bank known for its high-yield business savings accounts and strong track record in SBA lending. While it doesn’t offer traditional checking, Live Oak is a smart choice for business owners looking to grow their reserves, finance large projects, or secure government-backed loans through a highly rated online bank.
Pros
- Offers one of the highest APYs on business savings accounts
- No monthly maintenance fees or account minimums for savings
- Industry leader in SBA 7(a) and 504 loans, with deep sector expertise
- Streamlined digital experience with fast application and funding
- Business CDs are available with competitive rates
- Dedicated loan officers and customer support teams
- FDIC-insured up to standard limits via Live Oak Bank
Cons
- No business checking account is currently available
- Cannot make or receive everyday payments directly, savings only
- No physical branches; entirely online
- Limited integrations and no debit card access
- Not suited for daily business banking needs
Features
- Business Savings: Earn up to 4.00% APY with no monthly fees or minimum balance
- Certificates of Deposit (CDs): Fixed-term savings options with highly competitive rates
- SBA Loans: Access SBA 7(a), 504, and USDA loans with expert guidance
- Online Application: Fully digital onboarding for savings or lending products
- Dedicated Lending Teams: Industry-specific loan specialists available for support
- Mobile Access: Manage savings and loan accounts through an intuitive mobile dashboard
Mobile Banking App Reviews
Live Oak’s mobile app earns 4.7 stars on the App Store and 4.5 stars on Google Play. Users praise the ease of account management, simple navigation, and reliability for managing savings. However, some express interest in the addition of a checking option for more complete banking.
Is Live Oak Bank Right for You?
- You’re a small business owner looking to grow savings at a high rate
- You’re planning a large expansion or capital project and want access to SBA loans
- You don’t need a checking account for day-to-day operations
- You prefer online-only banking and value personalized loan support
Live Oak Bank is best suited for businesses that want to maximize their savings or seek government-backed funding. While it lacks checking functionality, its industry-leading APYs and SBA lending expertise make it a powerful secondary bank or financing partner for growth-minded businesses.
>> Start Banking Smarter With Live Oak Bank >>
Wise Business – Best for International Payments & Global Banking
Wise Business (formerly TransferWise) is a globally recognized Fintech platform that offers borderless banking for businesses. It’s ideal for freelancers, remote teams, and companies with international clients or vendors. With low-cost currency exchange, multi-currency accounts, and local bank details in multiple countries, Wise makes global money movement simple, fast, and transparent.
Pros
- Hold and convert 40+ currencies with real exchange rates
- Get local bank details (account numbers) 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
- Fast global payouts and invoicing in multiple currencies
- Integrates with accounting tools like QuickBooks and Xero
- Debit card available for global business spending
Cons
- Not a full-service U.S. bank, no FDIC insurance on account balances
- No support for cash or check deposits
- Limited U.S. domestic banking features (e.g., no mobile check deposit)
- No lending, credit, or APY-earning products
- Limited phone support; primarily email-based customer service
Features
- Multi-Currency Account: Send, receive, and hold 40+ currencies in one dashboard
- Global Account Numbers: Get local account details in 9+ currencies (USD, EUR, GBP, AUD, etc.)
- International Invoicing: Create and send invoices in foreign currencies
- Borderless Debit Card: Spend globally with mid-market exchange rates and low fees
- Currency Conversion: Real-time FX rates with transparent fee breakdowns
- Accounting Integrations: Sync with QuickBooks, Xero, and other platforms
Mobile Banking App Reviews
Wise’s app has stellar reviews: 4.7 stars on the App Store and 4.6 stars on Google Play. Users highlight the speed and affordability of international payments, intuitive multi-currency features, and ease of use. Some note that customer service can be slow during peak times.
Is Wise Business Right for You?
- You regularly send or receive international payments
- You want multi-currency support with minimal FX fees
- You don’t need cash deposits, lending, or domestic-only features
- You’re a freelancer, consultant, or remote company working with global clients or contractors
Wise Business is perfect for international-facing businesses that want to save on foreign exchange fees and streamline global payments. It’s not a traditional bank, but it’s one of the most efficient platforms for managing money across borders.
>> Start Banking Smarter With Wise >>
Methodology for the Best Banks for Small Businesses in New York
To build this list of the best banks for small businesses in New York, I looked beyond marketing hype and focused on what truly matters when you’re running a business day to day. Here’s what I prioritized during my research:
- Low Fees: I prioritized banks with no monthly fees or easy ways to waive them. I also looked at transaction, ACH, and cash deposit fees, because these are everyday business activities where costs can sneak in.
- Manageable Minimum Balances: Some banks require upfront deposits or ongoing balance minimums. I gave preference to those with low or no requirements, making them accessible for startups and solo founders.
- Interest Earnings: If a business bank account offered competitive APY, especially on checking balances, that gave it an edge. Fintechs like Bluevine and Grasshopper stood out here.
- Mobile & Online Access: I focused on banks with strong mobile apps and intuitive online dashboards, because I want to manage my business finances anytime, anywhere, without hassle.
- Ease of Use & Setup: I gave preference to banks with quick account setup, clean user interfaces, and helpful customer service. A good banking experience should be seamless from day one.
- Customer Reviews: I factored in real user feedback from the App Store, Google Play, Trustpilot, and others to see how each bank performs in real-world use, especially around reliability, support, and speed.
- Cash Deposit Options: For businesses that handle cash, I looked for banks that support cash deposits via ATM or partner networks, with transparent fees.
- Software Integrations: I value banks that integrate with QuickBooks, Stripe, Shopify, and more, tools that I and many business owners rely on daily.
- Access to Credit: Whether it’s a line of credit or an SBA loan, I noted which banks offer lending products that small businesses can access.
- Lending Products: I considered whether the bank offers SBA loans, lines of credit, or working capital, as access to financing can be crucial for growth
- In-Person Support (Optional): While I prefer digital-first banking, I included a few traditional banks with branch access or exceptional support for those who want a more personal touch.
>> Earn Up to 3.7% APY on Business Checking >>
Best Banks for Small Businesses in New York – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Still deciding which bank is right for your business? Here are answers to some common questions about business banking in New York:
What Is the Best Bank to Use in New York?
Any of the banks featured in our list are strong options for New York-based businesses. Whether you run a sole proprietorship, LLC, or startup, these banks offer the features, support, and flexibility to help your business grow.
What Is the Most Popular Bank in New York?
Chase is the most widely used bank in New York, with the largest number of branch locations across the state, including both New York City and more rural areas. Its widespread presence and robust business offerings make it a convenient choice for many.
Do Banks Give Loans to Startups?
Yes, some banks offer loans to startups, but approval often depends on your business plan, revenue potential, and financial history. Traditional banks may be more cautious, while Fintechs and online lenders might offer faster access to small business funding with fewer requirements.
Do I Need a Good Credit Score to Open a Business Bank Account?
Not always. Many banks, especially Fintechs, don’t perform a credit check to open a business account. However, maintaining your account responsibly is key, as banks will monitor your activity and may close accounts with frequent overdrafts or suspicious activity.
Are Local Banks Better for Small Businesses?
Local banks can be a great choice if you value personalized service, relationship-based lending, and in-branch support. However, online banks and Fintechs often provide lower fees, modern features, and 24/7 digital access. The best fit depends on your business model, tech preferences, and whether you handle cash frequently.
>> Bluevine: Simplify Your Small Business Banking >>
Bottom Line
The right banking partner depends on how your business operates: online, in person, or both. I created this list specifically for small businesses in New York, focusing on value, flexibility, and real-world usability.
From Chase’s widespread branch network to Fintechs like Bluevine and Mercury, there’s something for every need. Whether you’re a freelancer in Brooklyn or a retailer upstate, these options cover a wide range of business models. Choose the one that aligns best with your goals and how you like to manage your money.
>> Open Your Bluevine Business Account Today! >>