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Banking

If you’re self-employed, you can usually use a personal bank account for business transactions. However, many sole traders still choose to open a dedicated business account to keep their finances organised.

This section explains when a separate account makes sense, how to choose one, what protection you get, and what to consider before switching banks.

Choosing a business bank account

  • Do you need to open a separate bank account for your business?
  • Can you use a personal bank account for business?
  • How to choose a business bank account as a sole trader
  • Can you open a business account before you start trading?
  • How long does it take to open a self-employed bank account?
  • Can you open a business account with bad credit?

Managing your business banking

  • Can you have more than one business bank account?
  • Can a partnership have a joint business bank account?
  • Business banking charges explained
  • Does FSCS protection apply to business bank accounts?
  • Should you open a business savings account?

Switching and accounting software

  • How to switch business bank accounts as a sole trader
  • Do Tide and Zempler integrate with Xero, FreeAgent and QuickBooks?

Business bank account reviews

  • Tide business account review
  • Zempler Business Go account
  • ANNA Money business account review
switch change bank account sole trader

How to switch business bank accounts if you’re a sole trader

January 30, 2026
How to switch bank accounts as a sole trader. A practical guide to moving payments, avoiding missed Direct Debits, and changing banks without disruption.
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Sole trader bank accounts: what to look for when comparing providers

January 24, 2026
There are several reasons why opening a business bank account and keeping your business and personal finances separate is a good idea for a sole trader.
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ANNA Money review: free business account with MTD filing tools

January 22, 2026
ANNA Money is an app-based business account for small companies and sole traders, offering a debit card and built-in Making Tax Digital (MTD) tools.
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Joint business bank accounts – are they right for your partnership?

January 6, 2026
Considering a joint bank account for your business partnership? Discover the pros, cons, and which UK banks offer joint accounts as of July 2025.
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How to reduce your business bank charges in 2026 as a sole trader

January 6, 2026
Practical tips for the self-employed on choosing the right bank account, understanding fee structures, and avoiding unnecessary or hidden charges.
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What is the £120,000 FSCS and does it apply to business bank accounts?

December 1, 2025
We look at what the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) is and how it protects sole trader and limited company bank deposits.
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Business loans for the self-employed: what banks really look for

February 16, 2025
If you are a small business owner and are thinking of asking your bank for a business loan, here are some of the key factors you must bear in mind.
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