.jpg)
Choosing the right business bank account can save your company time, money and stress. Whether you’re a start up, freelancer or small business looking to cut costs, a free business bank account can help you keep expenses low while managing your finances efficiently.
In this guide to our picks for the best free business bank accounts for 2026, we compare five popular options and explain free business checking accounts.
Free Business Bank Accounts at a Glance
Here’s a simple table to help you quickly compare free business bank account features from a small sample of providers:
Bank | Monthly Fee | Free Banking Period |
Tide Banking | £0 | Ongoing |
Barclays | £8.50 | One year |
The Co-operative Bank | £0 | Ongoing |
NatWest | £0 | Two years |
ANNA Money | £0 | Ongoing |
The Best Free Business Bank Accounts in 2026
Our Current Highlights
Free Business Checking Accounts
In the UK, a business checking account is simply an alternative name for a business current account. It’s the main account your company uses to receive money, send payments and manage cash flow.
A free business checking account has no monthly fee and often has low-cost or free everyday transactions. This is especially helpful for start-ups and sole traders managing tight budgets.
What You Get With a Free Business Checking Account
Most free accounts now include:
A business debit card
Digital and mobile banking
Free or inexpensive electronic payments
Simple invoicing and payment tools
Bookkeeping and accounting integrations
Handy spending insights and summaries
How to Compare Free Business Bank Accounts
When you compare free business bank accounts, look at:
Monthly fees
Free banking duration
Transaction charges
Customer service and support
Accounting integrations
Bonuses and cashback
Whether the account suits start-ups or established businesses better
What is a Business Checking Account?
A ‘business checking account’ is a US term for what is commonly referred to as a business current account in the UK. It handles your day-to-day money management, including:
Receiving payments
Paying suppliers
Setting up Direct Debits
Handling payroll
Monitoring cash flow
Some providers also offer optional savings pots where you can earn interest on money you set aside.
In Summary
Your ideal free business bank accounts for 2026 will offer valuable tools, no monthly fees and substantial value for a company of your size.
Tide Banking and ANNA Money are excellent for digital-first businesses.
The Co-operative Bank and NatWest stand out for long-term free banking.
Barclays offers one of the highest bonuses available and a full year with no fees.
