Choose and run a business account

Benefits of online banking

All the major banks offer online banking. Online banking can provide a more efficient way of managing your bank accounts. You can:

• check your balances and view statements online
• move money between accounts
• make payments to suppliers
• set up regular payments such as salaries
• order chequebooks and statements
• download account information to analyse on your computer

Online banking can be very cost-effective. Charges are often lower than for ordinary accounts and accounts may offer higher interest rates. Banks usually offer online banking services at no extra cost.

Larger businesses may also be offered 'PC banking'. This requires the installation of special banking software on the computer you use to manage your account. It can offer a more effective solution if you have a large volume of banking transactions and directly link your accounting systems to your bank.

Find information on safe online banking on the Bank Safe Online website - Opens in a new window.

Subjects covered in this guide

• Introduction
• Choose the right bank
• Choose a business bank account
• Open a business bank account
• Run a business account
• Benefits of online banking
• Checklist: moving to online banking
• Be aware of bank charges

Print options - What are my print options - Opens in a new window

• Add guide to my print portfolio (print later as PDF)

Email options - What are my email options - Opens in a new window

• Tell a friend about this page
• Send me an email alert when this guide changes