The best small business banks in California should offer a great business checking account to go with outstanding business products and services. Many of the banks on my list have physical locations in multiple economic regions, and most allow you to open accounts from anywhere, even if you’re not near a branch. Each of the banks below spotlights an economic region, with links directly to the bank’s website:
- Featured bank in California statewide: U.S. Bank Member Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. (FDIC)
- Featured bank in Southern border: Chase Member Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. (FDIC)
- Featured bank in Southern California: BMO Member Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. (FDIC) (formerly Bank of the West)
- Featured bank in the Bay Area: California Bank & Trust Member Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. (FDIC)
- Featured bank in Northern California: Westamerica Bank Member Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. (FDIC)
- Featured bank in Central Coast: Mechanics Bank Member Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. (FDIC)
- Featured bank in Central Sierra: PNC Bank Member Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. (FDIC)
In addition to the banks above that have physical branches, I’ve included some financial technology companies (fintechs) with outstanding business banking products that are available nationwide. These providers are listed below, with links directly to their websites.
- Bluevine Provider is a fintech platform backed by and FDIC-insured through a supporting bank partnership with Coastal Community Bank : Best overall for interest-earning accounts with the best line of credit and international payments
- Mercury Mercury is a fintech company, not an FDIC-insured bank. Deposits in checking and savings accounts are held by our banking services partners, Choice Financial Group and Evolve Bank & Trust ®; Members FDIC. : Best for tech companies and startups
- Found Provider is a fintech platform backed by and FDIC-insured through a supporting bank partnership with Piermont Bank. : Best for freelancers and solopreneurs needing built-in bookkeeping
- Relay Provider is a fintech platform backed by and FDIC-insured through a supporting bank partnership with Thread Bank. : Best for businesses requiring multiple accounts and debit cards
- Novo Novo is a fintech company; not a bank. Deposit account services provided by Middlesex Federal Savings, F.A., Member FDIC. : Best for businesses seeking rapid access to funds and faster payments
With a decade of banking experience, my solid financial background helps me provide the best answers to our audience in line with the Fit Small Business editorial policy.
I strive for accuracy, clarity, and objectivity in writing reviews and guides to ensure that small business owners can access impartial and critical information that supports their business decisions.
I also completed a Business degree and have substantial experience in facilitating account opening, performing KYC, and cross-selling different banking and investment products and services to both retail and preferred clients.
Looking for a solid banking solution? Earn $400 with U.S. Bank Business Essentials. Terms apply. |
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Earn a $400 bonus when you open a U.S. Bank Business Essentials Account or $1,000 when you open a Platinum Business Checking Account online with promo code Q3AFL25 and complete qualifying activities, subject to certain terms and limitations. Offer valid through September 30, 2025. Member FDIC. |
Quick comparison of the best banks for small businesses in California
California statewide business bank: U.S. Bank
What I Like
- No monthly fee for basic account
- Apply in person, online, or by phone
- Built-in point-of-sale (POS) options
Drawbacks
- High outgoing wire fees
- Limited free transaction
- Low cash deposit limits
Regions with physical locations
(Click map for U.S. Bank’s location finder)
- Send and receive money through app
- Digital invoicing and payment systems integrated into your online dashboard
- Mobile app to monitor all of your accounts, transfer funds between accounts, and deposit checks online
- Easy integration with overdraft protection or credit card processing services for your business
- Free debit card and a discount on the first check order
- Integrations with QuickBooks and U.S. Bank Payment Processing
- Customer service online, by phone, or in-branch during business hours
- Other products include lending and cash flow products, other checking options, and POS services
Special offer |
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Required opening deposit | $100 |
Required balance minimum | None |
Transaction limit before fees |
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Monthly fee |
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Domestic wire transfer fees |
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International wire transfer fees |
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ATM fees | None at U.S. Bank and MoneyPass ATMs |
Cash deposited | 25 cash deposit units? free each month, then 33 cents per $100 |
APY |
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U.S. Bank Member FDIC | Â |
When to choose U.S. Bank
- You want a traditional bank with a strong presence in California: U.S. Bank has branches throughout the state, making it an accessible option for businesses regardless of location.
- You prefer low-cost business checking with online account opening: The Business Essentials Checking account comes with no monthly fees, and you can open your account online for added convenience.
- You seek higher-tier account options for when your business grows: U.S. Bank offers Gold and Platinum Business Checking accounts, which provide more free transactions, additional perks, and waivable monthly fees.
- You want to take advantage of account-opening bonuses: Earn a $400 bonus when you open a Business Essentials Checking account or $1,000 with a Platinum Business Checking account online using promo code Q3AFL25 and complete qualifying activities. Offer valid through September 30, 2025. Member FDIC.
This combination of accessibility, online convenience, tiered account options, and promotional incentives makes U.S. Bank one of the best choices for California businesses looking for flexible, low-cost checking options with the convenience of both online and branch banking.
Southern border business bank: Chase
What I Like
- Up to a $500 bonus when you open an account
- Multiple ways to waive the monthly fee
- Branch presence in 48 states
Drawbacks
- Only 20 free transactions for basic checking
- ATM fees not reimbursed
- No APY for checking accounts
Regions with physical locations
(Click map for Chase’s location finder)
- Built-in card acceptance with QuickAcceptSM via the Chase Mobile® app
- Manage debit, deposit, and ATM card settings for individual employees
- Deposit checks, view account balances, pay bills, and make transfers through the mobile app
- Integrates with QuickBooks and other leading accounting software
- Free debit card, mailed within 10 business days of application approval
- Physical checks’ costs, depending on type ordered
- Chase Payment Solutions
- Live customer support online or in branch during business hours
- Other products include business savings, certificates of deposit (CDs), lending products, credit cards, merchant services, and collection services
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|---|---|
Special offer | Up to a $500 cash bonus when you open a new account and meet requirements |
Required opening deposit | None |
Required balance minimum | None |
Transaction limit before fees |
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Monthly fee | $15; waivable if conditions are met |
Domestic wire transfer fees |
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International wire transfer fees |
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ATM fees | $3 at non-Chase ATM, plus ATM operator fees |
Cash deposited | $5,000 free per month, then $2.50 per $1,000 |
APY | None |
JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Member FDIC | Â |
When to choose Chase
- You need a bank with wide coverage and online accessibility in California: Chase has branches in all 10 California economic regions and offers excellent online banking, making it one of the best options for small businesses statewide.
- You want an entry-level business checking account with cash handling flexibility: Chase’s Business Complete Banking account is ideal for smaller transaction volumes and allows for large cash deposits.
- You require higher-tier accounts for growing transaction needs: The bank offers multiple business checking options, including accounts with more free transactions and higher free cash deposit allowances. See our Chase Business Checking comparison to learn the benefits of each account.
- You need scalable account management with reserve options: With Chase’s Platinum Business Checking, you can link up to 99 subaccounts, providing robust cash management for larger businesses. Read our Chase Platinum Business Checking review to learn more.
The combination of branch availability, flexible account options, and extensive business services makes Chase one of the top choices for small businesses in California.
Southern California business bank: BMO
What I Like
- Easily waivable monthly fees
- Variety of business checking account options
- Now has over 1,000 branches in 32 states
Drawbacks
- No APY except for the highest tier
- Low free cash deposit limits
Regions with physical locations
(Click map for BMO’s location finder)
- Free debit Mastercard
- Digital banking
- Unlimited incoming wire transfers for higher-tier accounts
- Relationship banking packages available for higher-tier accounts
- Specialty business checking accounts
- Robust lending options, such as Small Business Administration (SBA) loans, lines of credit, equipment leasing, real estate lending, and specialty financing
- Discounted payroll services through Paychex (read our review of Paychex Flex)
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|---|---|
Special offer | Up to a $750 cash bonus when you open a new account and meet requirements |
Required opening deposit | $100 |
Required balance minimum | None |
Transaction limit before fees | 100, then 40 cents per transaction |
Monthly fee | $10; waivable with an average collected balance of $100 or more |
Domestic wire transfer fees |
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International wire transfer fees |
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ATM fees | None at BMO and Allpoint ATMs, $3 for non-BMO ATMs plus operator fees |
Cash deposited | $2,000 free per month, then 25 cents per $100 |
APY | N/A |
BMO Bank N.A. Member FDIC |
When to choose BMO
- You need a bank with an extensive branch network in California: BMO has branches in all of California’s economic regions, except Central Sierra. It operates over 1,000 branches across 32 states and plans for further expansion, making it highly accessible.
- You are looking for flexible entry-level business accounts: The bank offers two practical options:
- Simple Business Checking: Ideal for smaller businesses, providing up to 100 fee-free transactions and $2,000 in cash deposits monthly.
- Digital Business Checking: Perfect for digital-first businesses, offering unlimited free incoming wire transfers and up to $1,000 in free cash deposits.
- You need higher-tier accounts for your growing business: You can get two advanced business checking accounts that come with more free monthly transactions and higher monthly fees, which can be waived by maintaining higher balance thresholds.
- You want a budget-friendly digital account: BMO’s low-fee digital account is an excellent option if your business prioritizes free ACH and incoming wires, which minimizes banking costs while maintaining essential features.
The broad branch footprint, versatile account options, and affordable digital features make BMO a great choice for California-based businesses that value physical access, flexible accounts, and cost-effective digital banking solutions.
Bay Area business bank: California Bank & Trust
What I Like
- Waivable monthly fees
- Up to $15,000 free cash deposits, except for its basic account
- High monthly transaction limit
Drawbacks
- Nonprofit account, Community Checking, has a waivable $10 monthly fee
- Most basic account has very limited free transactions
- Only in California (although ATM network is available in 10 additional states)
Regions with physical locations
(Click map for California Bank & Trust’s location finder)
- Free business debit card
- Business online and mobile banking
- Multiple business checking options and business checking packages
- Integration with Quicken and QuickBooks
- Variety of lending products, including SBA loans and business access online loans
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|---|---|
Special offer | None |
Required opening deposit | $50 |
Required balance minimum | None |
Transaction limit before fees | 250, then 45 cents per transaction |
Monthly fee | $15; waivable |
Domestic wire transfer fees |
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International wire transfer fees |
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ATM fees |
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Cash deposited | $15,000 free per month, then 20 cents per $100 |
APY | N/A |
California Bank and Trust: A division of Zions Bancorporation, N.A. Member FDIC | |
When to choose California Bank & Trust
- You want a bank with a strong presence in the Bay Area and beyond: CB&T has multiple branches in key Bay Area cities like San Francisco, San Jose, Oakland, and Cupertino, making it a convenient option for northern California businesses. Its expanded reach across the state ensures continued support as your business grows.
- You value flexible business checking options: The bank offers five different business checking accounts, allowing you to choose one that best suits your business size and transaction needs.
- You need higher transaction limits without extra costs: The Business Growth Checking account offers up to 250 free transactions per month and $15,000 in free cash deposits, making it ideal if your business has more than 50 transactions.
- You want the reliability of a larger banking network: As part of Zions Bancorporation, CB&T is backed by one of the largest regional banking groups in the western United States, providing financial stability and a broad range of services.
The combination of local presence, multiple account options, and high transaction limits makes CB&T an excellent choice for small businesses looking for reliable, cost-effective banking in Southern California.
Northern California business bank: Westamerica Bank
What I Like
- Low and waivable monthly fee
- Five business checking accounts
- Customer service seven days a week
Drawbacks
- Low free transaction limits
- $200 minimum opening deposit
- Branches limited to California
Regions with physical locations
(Click map for Westamerica Bank’s location finder)
- Free business debit card
- Online and mobile banking
- Bill Pay (optional)
- Robust business services include merchant services, payroll services, and overdraft services
- Wide range of bank products, such as business savings, business credit cards, business CDs, and business lending
 | |
|---|---|
Special offer | None |
Required opening depositt | $200 |
Required balance minimum | None |
Transaction limit before fees | N/A |
Transaction Limit Before Fees | 100, then 20 cents per transaction |
Monthly fees | $12; waivable |
Domestic wire transfer fees |
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International wire transfer fees |
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ATM fees | None for Westamerica Bank ATMs, $2 per inquiry, and $2.50 per withdrawal at non-Westamerica Bank ATMss |
Cash deposited | $0.20 per transaction |
APY | N/A |
Westamerica Bank, FDIC insured | Â |
When to choose Westamerica Bank
- You need a bank with a strong presence in Northern California: Westamerica Bank is available throughout most of the northern two-thirds of California, except for the Northern Sacramento Valley region.
- You want flexible business checking options: Westamerica offers five different business checking accounts, allowing businesses of various sizes and transaction needs to find the right fit.
- You prefer low-cost checking with waivable fees: The bank’s Regular Checking account provides up to 100 free transactions each month and features a $12 monthly fee, which can be waived by maintaining a $3,000 daily balance or a $6,000 average daily balance (ADB).
- You need an interest-bearing option for sole proprietors or nonprofits: Westamerica’s Interest Checking account caters specifically to sole proprietors and nonprofits, allowing them to earn interest while managing their funds.
The combination of regional availability, flexible account choices, and cost-effective checking options makes Westamerica Bank an excellent choice for small businesses located in Northern California.
Central Coast business bank: Mechanics Bank
What I Like
- $5,000 cash deposit limit for basic account
- Robust treasury management solutions
- Wide range of lending products available
Drawbacks
- $3,000 balance required to waive monthly fee for basic accounts
- $100 opening deposit
- Only available in California
Regions with physical locations
(Click map for Mechanics Bank’s location finder)
- Business Visa Debit Card
- Online banking
- Mobile banking
- $50 first check order discount and unlimited incoming wire fee refunds for highest-tier account, Prime Business Checking
- Savings accounts, money market accounts, and CDs are available
- Lending options include term loans, lines of credit, SBA loans, and owner-occupied real estate financing
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|---|---|
Special offer | None |
Required opening deposit | $100 |
Required balance minimum | None |
Transaction limit before fees | 150 |
Monthly fee | $10; waivable |
Domestic wire transfer fees |
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International wire transfer fees |
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Standard ACH fees |
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Same-day ACH fees | $10 per company paid and $0.75 per item |
ATM fees |
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Cash deposited | $5,000 free per month; undisclosed fees apply for excess monthly cash deposits |
APY | N/A |
Mechanics Bank, Member FDIC | Â |
When to choose Mechanics Bank
- You need a bank with comprehensive coverage in California: Mechanics Bank operates in all 10 of California’s economic regions, making it one of the most accessible options for businesses across the state. It does not have branches outside the Golden State.
- You want a basic, low-cost business checking account: The Smart Business Checking account offers up to 150 free transactions and $5,000 in cash deposits monthly, providing a budget-friendly option for small to midsize businesses.
- You are a nonprofit looking for fee-free banking: Mechanics Bank offers a free checking account specifically for nonprofits, helping organizations manage their finances without incurring monthly maintenance fees.
- You frequently receive wire transfers and want to save on fees: The Prime Business Checking account offers unlimited refunds on incoming wire fees, making it ideal if your business handles frequent international or domestic wire transfers.
The extensive branch presence, affordable account options (including one tailored for nonprofits), and unlimited incoming wire fee refunds make Mechanics Bank a top choice if your business values statewide coverage, savings on wire transfer fees, and a nonprofit-friendly account.
Mobile app ratings: Despite being a regional bank, Mechanics Bank has a very good app that is well-rated on the App Store (4.8) and Google Play (4.4).
Being a smaller bank, its app has just under 14,000 reviews between both app stores. That means low reviews would pull the score down easier, so the high ratings speak to the quality of the bank’s app.
Central Sierra business bank: PNC Bank
What I Like
- Waivable $12 monthly fee; no monthly fee for the first three months from account opening
- Up to 150 free transactions for Business Checking; 500 for Business Checking Plus
- $400 welcome bonus for Business Checking and Business Checking Plus
Drawbacks
- No free checking account
- Hefty wire fees
- In-person banking is limited to 28 states and Washington, D.C.
Regions with physical locations
(Click map for PNC Bank’s location finder)
- Free Visa debit card with cash-back rewards
- Deposit checks, pay bills, and view balances through the mobile app
- Online and mobile banking
- Integrates with QuickBooks, Xero, Intacct, and NetSuite
- Features PNC Merchant Services®, including ecommerce and in-person solutions
- Cash Flow Insight® tools help manage cash flow
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|---|---|
Special offer | $400 cash reward when you open a new account and meet requirements |
Required opening deposit | $100 |
Required balance minimum | None |
Transaction limit before fees | 150, then 50 cents per transaction |
Monthly fee | $12; waivable |
Domestic wire transfer fees |
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International Wire Transfer Fees |
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ATM Fees | $3 per transaction at any non-PNC Bank ATM, plus operator fees |
Cash deposited | $5,000 free per month, then 30 cents per $100, per statement cyclee |
APY | N/A |
PNC Bank, National Association (N.A.), a wholly owned subsidiary of PNC and Member FDIC. | |
When to choose PNC Bank
- You need a bank with physical presence in the Central Sierra: PNC Bank is one of the few national banks with branches serving California’s Central Sierra region, making it a convenient option if your business is in this less densely banked area.
- You run a business with moderate transaction or cash deposit needs: PNC’s entry-tier Business Checking account includes 150 free transactions and up to $5,000 in free cash deposits per month, making it a practical option for businesses with mid-level banking activity.
- Your growing business needs higher transaction limits and flexible fee options: PNC Bank’s mid- and high-tier business checking accounts offer more free transactions and higher cash deposit allowances than the entry-level account. They are ideal if your company requires more robust banking solutions.
- You prefer accounts with easily waivable monthly fees: There are multiple ways to waive monthly service fees, such as maintaining a minimum balance or making qualifying transactions, helping you manage costs efficiently.
This combination of regional coverage, scalable account options, and cost management features makes PNC Bank an excellent choice for larger businesses or those expecting high transaction volumes.
How I evaluated the best small business banks in California
To identify the best banks for small businesses in California, I focused on the practical needs of companies operating within the state’s diverse economic landscape. The aim was to spotlight financial institutions that offer robust support, combining accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and comprehensive services.
- Local presence and accessibility: Banks were assessed based on their branch availability across California, ensuring businesses have convenient access to in-person services when needed.
- Fee structures and waivers: I examined monthly maintenance fees, minimum balance requirements, and the conditions under which these fees could be waived, prioritizing banks that offer flexibility and cost savings for small businesses.
- Transaction limits and charges: My evaluation considered the number of free transactions allowed per month and the fees associated with exceeding these limits, which is crucial for businesses with varying transaction volumes.
- Digital banking tools: The quality and usability of online and mobile banking platforms were analyzed, focusing on features like mobile check deposit, real-time alerts, and user-friendly interfaces that facilitate efficient financial management.
- Integration with business software: I looked into the banks’ compatibility with popular accounting and payment processing software, such as QuickBooks, which can streamline operations for small businesses.
- Lending and credit options: The availability of small business loans, lines of credit, and other financing options was also considered, as access to capital is often vital for business growth and sustainability.
- Customer support: I assessed the availability through various channels like phone, email, and live chat, ensuring that businesses can get assistance when needed.
All information was sourced from official bank websites and product disclosures available as of May 2025. While this guide provides curated recommendations, it’s important to note that features, fees, and access may vary by location and account type. You should select a banking partner that aligns closely with your business’s specific operational needs and financial goals.
How to choose the best banks for small businesses in California
When selecting the best banks for a small business in California, it’s essential to consider factors that align with your business’s specific needs.
1. Determine the need for physical branches.
While many business banks in California offer online account opening, having access to a physical branch can be beneficial, especially if your business handles cash transactions or prefers in-person banking services. Ensure the bank has a conveniently located branch near your operations.
2. Understand the fee structure.
Not all of the best small business banks in California offer fee-free accounts. Some may charge monthly maintenance fees, which can often be waived by maintaining a minimum balance or meeting other criteria. Additionally, be aware of transaction limits, wire transfer fees, ACH charges, and ATM fees. Review the bank’s fee schedule to ensure it aligns with your business’s financial activities.
3. Evaluate online account opening options.
Some banks allow you to open a business account entirely online, while others may require an in-person visit, especially for businesses with multiple owners. Check the bank’s account opening procedures to ensure they fit your preferences and business structure.
4. Review customer feedback.
Read customer reviews to gain insights into the bank’s customer service quality, digital banking experience, and overall reliability. This can provide a clearer picture of what to expect and help you choose the bank that meets your expectations.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Every small business should have at least a business checking account, which is essential for daily operations. To earn interest on reserve funds, consider opening a business savings account, MMA, or CD. As your business grows, you might need multiple accounts across different banks to ensure all funds are FDIC-insured.
Yes. Local banks can offer personalized service, potential interest rate discounts, and other perks, especially if you have an existing relationship. However, if a local bank doesn’t meet your business needs, national banks with local branches can provide similar benefits with broader services.
Requirements vary by business type when opening a business bank account in California but generally include the following:
- Business formation documents (e.g., Articles of Organization)
- Employer Identification Number or Social Security Number (for sole proprietors)
- Business license
- Ownership agreements (for partnerships or corporations)
- Personal identification (e.g., driver’s license)
Always check with the specific bank for its documentation requirements.
Yes, sole proprietors and single-member limited liability companies can open a business bank account using their Social Security numbers. However, obtaining an EIN is recommended for added credibility and to simplify tax reporting.
The most popular banks in California include Chase, U.S. Bank, and PNC Bank. They have extensive branch and ATM networks across the state, making them convenient choices for many businesses.