Why Relay Bank Is a Game-Changer for Small Business Banking

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Managing business finances can feel like a full-time job, but with the right tools, it doesn’t have to. Enter Relay Bank, an online banking platform designed specifically for small business owners, freelancers, and entrepreneurs who are tired of juggling spreadsheets, chasing receipts, and waiting on clunky banking systems.

If you're looking for a modern, user-friendly alternative to traditional banks that integrates seamlessly with your accounting software and supports smarter money management, Relay might be exactly what you need.

In this post, we’ll explore what makes Relay Bank stand out and why so many small business owners are making the switch.

What Is Relay Bank?

Relay is a no-fee, FDIC-insured online banking platform built with small businesses in mind. It offers checking accounts, built-in expense tracking, money movement tools, and direct integrations with accounting platforms like QuickBooks Online and Xero.

Unlike traditional banks, Relay was designed to support the way modern businesses operate - think digital-first, automation-friendly, and bookkeeping-ready.

Key Features of Relay Bank for Small Business Owners

Multiple Checking Accounts (Up to 20!)

One of Relay’s most unique features is the ability to open up to 20 individual checking accounts under one business profile. This makes it incredibly easy to implement profit-first banking, budget for specific expenses, or separate funds by client, project, or purpose. No more messy spreadsheets trying to track everything in one place.

Seamless Accounting Integration

Relay directly integrates with both QuickBooks Online and Xero, pulling in transaction data daily. That means no more exporting CSVs or manual categorization. Relay makes it easier to keep your books accurate and up to date.

Team and Role-Based Access

Relay allows you to add team members with customizable permissions. Whether you want your bookkeeper to access statements or your assistant to pay vendors, you’re always in control of who sees what.

No Monthly Fees or Minimum Balances

Yep, you read that right. Relay doesn’t charge monthly maintenance fees, overdraft fees, or require a minimum balance. This is a huge win for new or growing businesses trying to manage expenses and avoid unnecessary banking costs.

Easy ACH, Wire, and Check Payments

You can schedule and send payments easily via ACH, wire, or check right from your Relay dashboard. Relay even allows you to auto-import bills from QuickBooks, making bill pay a breeze.

Virtual and Physical Debit Cards

Relay offers both virtual and physical Visa debit cards, which you can issue to team members as needed. Set spending limits, track expenses, and eliminate the need for reimbursements or shared cards.

Why Relay Bank Is a Smart Choice for Entrepreneurs

Relay stands out because it’s more than just a bank - it’s a financial operations platform. It gives business owners clarity and control over their money, with tools that actually reduce the time you spend managing finances.

Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur managing everything yourself or a growing business with multiple contractors, Relay simplifies how you handle cash flow, pay bills, and keep your books clean.

How Relay Bank Helps Streamline Bookkeeping

If you work with a bookkeeper or do your own accounting, Relay’s real-time integration and multi-account setup can be a game-changer. Instead of sorting through a single jumbled account, you can organize income and expenses into categories (like payroll, taxes, marketing, etc.) - all in real time.

Plus, Relay’s integration with QuickBooks Online ensures your data is clean and current, making end-of-month reconciliation faster and less stressful.

Final Thoughts

If you're tired of outdated banking systems, unclear cash flow, and disconnected tools, Relay Bank offers a refreshing solution. With its automation-ready features, zero-fee structure, and seamless bookkeeping support, it’s quickly becoming a favorite among online business owners, virtual assistants, creative entrepreneurs, and service providers.

Want to See How Healthy Your Bookkeeping System Is?

Before you dive into a new banking platform, take a moment to review your current setup. Download our free DIY Bookkeeping Health Checklist to assess where your finances stand—and get actionable steps to clean up your money systems.

Click here to grab your free checklist now!

Note: Relay Financial is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by Thread Bank, Member FDIC.