Selecting the right business checking account is crucial for managing your business finances efficiently. After a year of using Bluevine Business Checking, we want to share why it has become our preferred banking solution. Here's an in-depth look at the benefits that influenced our decision to switch.
Key Reasons for Switching to Bluevine
1. No Monthly or Overdraft Fees
One of the immediate benefits of Bluevine compared to other banks like BVA is the absence of monthly maintenance and overdraft fees. For instance, BVA charges a $16 monthly fee if your balance falls below $5,000 or if your monthly debit card spending is less than $250.
Additionally, a $10 fee applies for each overdraft occurrence. Bluevine, in contrast, does not penalize for falling below a certain balance or overdrafting, making it particularly attractive for startups and small businesses.
2. High Interest on Checking Balances
Bluevine offers an impressive 2% APY on checking account balances up to $250,000. This rate is exceptionally competitive, especially compared to traditional business checking or savings accounts.
To qualify for this interest rate, you need to either receive over $2,500 per month from customer payments or spend at least $500 on your debit card monthly.
3. Extended FDIC Insurance
Through partnerships with multiple banks, Bluevine provides up to $3 million in FDIC insurance. This is well above the standard $250,000 per account, ensuring additional security for your growing business finances.
4. Efficient Money Management Tools
- Transaction Flexibility: Enjoy unlimited free incoming and outgoing standard ACH transactions.
- Free Checkbooks: Receive two free checkbooks per year, which can be a significant saving.
- ATM Access: Withdraw cash with no fees at over 37,000 MoneyPass ATMs nationwide.
- Sub-Accounts: Create up to five sub-accounts with individual account numbers and rules, helping keep your business finances organized.
5. International Payments
Bluevine allows for international payments to 32 countries in 15 different currencies. The fee is $25 plus 1.5% for currency conversion, which is competitive but should be compared with services like Wise.com for the best rates.
6. User Access Levels
You can give access to your account to additional users under different roles: authorized user, accountant, and contributor. This feature is particularly useful for businesses that need to delegate financial responsibilities securely.
Additional Services from Bluevine
Apart from checking accounts, Bluevine offers several other financial products aimed at supporting small businesses:
- Loans and Lines of Credit: Borrow up to $250,000 with straightforward terms.
- Bluevine Business Credit Card: No annual fee and 1.5% cash back on all purchases.
Conclusion
Bluevine has proven to be a robust platform for business banking, combining flexibility, high-yield interest, and comprehensive services without the common fees many other banks impose. Whether you're just starting out or looking to switch, Bluevine offers a compelling package that supports both daily operations and financial growth.
If you want to learn more about how to open a business bank account in 2024, check out the article right here.
If you want to learn more about the best first business credit card or examine other options, check out the articles below:
- Best 1st Business Credit Card 2024
- American Express Business Gold Review 2024
- American Express Business Checking Account 2024
- American Express Blue Business Plus Review 2024
- Bank of America Business Banking Review 2024
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why did you switch to Bluevine Business Checking?
We switched to Bluevine Business Checking primarily due to its lack of monthly maintenance and overdraft fees, high-interest rate on checking balances, and extended FDIC insurance. These features provided significant financial advantages compared to our previous bank.
What interest rate does Bluevine offer on checking balances?
Bluevine offers a 2% APY on checking account balances up to $250,000. To qualify, you need to receive over $2,500 per month from customer payments or spend at least $500 monthly using your Bluevine debit card.
How does Bluevine handle FDIC insurance for its accounts?
Bluevine provides up to $3 million in FDIC insurance through partnerships with multiple banks, offering much higher coverage than the standard $250,000 per account, which adds extra security for your business funds.
What are the key money management tools offered by Bluevine?
Bluevine offers unlimited free ACH transactions, free checkbooks, access to over 37,000 fee-free MoneyPass ATMs, and the ability to create up to five sub-accounts with individual account numbers to help organize your business finances.
Does Bluevine support international payments, and what are the fees?
Yes, Bluevine supports international payments to 32 countries in 15 different currencies. The fees include a $25 transaction fee plus 1.5% for currency conversion, which is competitive but can be compared with services like Wise.com for potentially better rates.