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New York · NY

Business Banking for Architects in New York

Free business checking with 1.75% APY, built-in accounting, and unlimited sub-accounts for architects in New York.

Starting an Architecture Business in New York

State Tax Rate

4%–10.9% (graduated, plus NYC tax up to 3.876%)

LLC Filing Fee

$200 (LLC)

Major Markets

New York City, Buffalo, Rochester, Albany, Syracuse

Key Requirements in New York

Must pass the ARE (Architect Registration Examination) for licensure
Licensed through New York's architecture licensing board
Professional liability (E&O) insurance strongly recommended
Must complete AXP (Architectural Experience Program) hours
Continuing education required for license renewal in most states

Best Banks for Architects in New York

Compare New York's top business banking options for architects.

1

Holdings

$0/mo · 1.75% APY

Free business checking with built-in AI accounting, unlimited sub-accounts, and FDIC insurance up to $3M. Available nationwide including New York.

Key Features

  • Free business checking
  • Built-in AI bookkeeping
  • Unlimited sub-accounts
  • 1.75% APY on all balances

Pros

  • No fees, no minimums
  • Accounting included free
  • FDIC insured up to $3M

Cons

  • No physical branches
  • No cash deposit
2

Signature Bank

Regional bank

Best for: architects with significant banking needs

Pros

NYC-based, strong commercial banking, single-point-of-contact model

Cons

High minimum deposits

3

M&T Bank

Regional bank

Best for: architects in Upstate New York

Pros

Strong Upstate NY presence, full-service business banking

Cons

Less competitive in NYC metro

4

Sterling National Bank

Regional bank

Best for: architects in the NYC/Long Island area

Pros

NY metro focus, strong business lending

Cons

Limited upstate presence

Why Architects in New York Choose Holdings

Free Business Checking

No monthly fees, no minimums, no hidden costs. Every dollar stays in your business.

Built-In AI Bookkeeping

Automatic transaction categorization, real-time P&L and balance sheet. No QuickBooks needed.

1.75% APY on Every Dollar

Your operating funds earn interest while they sit. No tiered rates, no caps.

Unlimited Sub-Accounts

Organize funds by job, project, or purpose. Track payroll, taxes, and expenses separately.

Architects Banking in New York — FAQ

Do architects in New York need a license to practice?

Yes — you must be licensed to use the title 'architect' and stamp drawings in New York. This requires completing an accredited degree, the AXP experience program, and passing all divisions of the ARE. Check with New York's architecture board for specific requirements.

What's the best business structure for architects in New York?

Most architecture firms in New York form a PLLC or PC ($200 filing fee). This provides liability protection for your personal assets if a design-related claim arises. Larger firms may use LLP structures.

What banking features matter for architecture firms in New York?

Architects need project-based expense tracking, milestone invoicing, and easy categorization of software subscriptions (AutoCAD, Revit, etc.), contractor payments, and material costs. AI bookkeeping automates this so you can focus on design, not spreadsheets.

Should New York architects get professional liability insurance?

Absolutely — professional liability (E&O) insurance is essentially mandatory for practicing architects in New York. Many clients and projects require it. Premiums vary by firm size and project type, but it protects against design errors, omissions, and construction-related claims.

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Ready to open your account?

Holdings offers free banking with 1.75% APY for architects in New York. Open your account in minutes.

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