Business Banking in Delaware: A Guide for Small Business Owners
Delaware, known as the First State, is a hub for business formation thanks to its favorable tax laws and pro-business policies. With over 1.8 million companies registered in the state, Delaware is a preferred location for entrepreneurs, particularly those in finance, technology, and manufacturing. However, small businesses still face challenges when it comes to banking.
Key Challenges for Small Businesses in Delaware
Small businesses in Delaware often encounter issues such as:
Limited Banking Options: Despite being a corporate hub, small business banking options can be limited compared to larger states.
High Fees: Many banks charge significant fees for account maintenance and transactions.
Access to Financing: Securing loans or lines of credit can be challenging for startups or businesses without substantial assets.
Choosing the right bank can help address these challenges by offering tailored solutions such as low-cost accounts, accessible financing options, and advanced digital tools. Below is a list of the best banks for small businesses in Delaware.
The 10 Best Banks for Small Businesses in Delaware
#1: Holdings (Best for Digital-First Banking)
Holdings is the ideal choice for small businesses seeking a modern, digital-first banking experience. With no account fees, no minimum balances, and tiered APY rates that grow with your deposits (up to 3%), Holdings empowers businesses to save more while managing their finances seamlessly.
Pros:
$0 account fees and no minimum balance requirements
High APY rates: 1.5% ($50K-$250K), 2% ($250K-$1M), 3% (over $1M)
Free ACH transfers and domestic wires
Allpoint ATM network access with no fees
Cons:
No physical branches for in-person banking
Limited cash deposit options
Verdict: Holdings is perfect for tech-savvy entrepreneurs prioritizing cost-efficiency and advanced digital tools.
#2: WSFS Bank (Best Local Bank)
WSFS Bank is Delaware’s largest locally headquartered bank, offering personalized service and competitive business checking accounts tailored to small businesses.
Pros:
Low minimum deposit requirements
Access to SBA loans and lines of credit
Strong community presence
Cons:
Monthly fees on some accounts unless waived
Limited free transactions
Verdict: Ideal for local businesses looking for personalized service and flexible financing options.
#3: Chase (Best National Bank)
Chase’s Business Complete Banking® account includes QuickAccept®, allowing same-day deposits from card payments. It’s perfect for retail or service-based businesses.
Pros:
Integrated payment processing with QuickAccept®
Generous new customer bonuses (up to $500)
Extensive branch and ATM network
Cons:
Monthly fees unless waiver conditions are met
Low savings interest rates
Verdict: A strong choice for businesses that rely on credit card transactions.
#4: M&T Bank (Best Regional Bank)
M&T Bank offers flexible business checking accounts with waivable fees and robust digital tools.
Pros:
Waivable monthly fees on tailored accounts
Up to 500 free monthly transactions
SBA loan options available
Cons:
Higher-tier accounts may have steep fees
Low APY on savings accounts
Verdict: A reliable option for growing businesses seeking regional expertise.
#5: Bank of America (Best for Comprehensive Services)
Bank of America provides extensive business solutions under one roof, including merchant services, lending options, and cash flow management tools.
Pros:
Nationwide branch network with strong accessibility
Robust mobile app with integrated financial tools
Competitive credit card rewards programs
Cons:
Monthly maintenance fees unless waived
Limited free transaction volume
Verdict: Ideal for established businesses needing comprehensive services.
#6: Wells Fargo (Best for SBA Loans)
Wells Fargo is one of the nation’s top SBA lenders, offering comprehensive business services under one roof.
Pros:
Top SBA lender with favorable loan terms
Extensive branch network across Delaware
Multiple business checking options
Cons:
Numerous banking fees
Low APY on savings accounts
Verdict: A great option for businesses seeking capital through SBA loans.
#7: TD Bank (Best for Convenience)
TD Bank’s Business Convenience Checking Plus offers unlimited transactions and extended hours at branches across Delaware.
Pros:
Unlimited free transactions
Extended branch hours
No minimum deposit required
Cons:
Monthly fee unless balance threshold met
Limited APY offerings
Verdict: Perfect for small businesses needing flexibility in banking hours.
#8: Bluevine (Best Online Banking Option)
Bluevine combines no-fee checking with a competitive 1.5% APY on balances up to $250K. It’s designed for online-first businesses.
Pros:
No monthly fees or transaction limits
High APY on balances
Seamless integration with accounting software
Cons:
Limited cash deposit options
No physical branches
Verdict: Ideal for digital-savvy entrepreneurs who want to earn interest on their funds.
#9: PNC Bank (Best Cash Flow Management Tools)
PNC Bank offers unique cash flow management tools through its Business Checking Plus account, making it ideal for growing enterprises.
Pros:
Cash Flow Insight® tools included
Waivable monthly maintenance fee
Extensive branch network
Cons:
Fees apply after free transaction limits exceeded
Higher minimum balance requirements
Verdict: A solid choice for businesses focused on optimizing cash flow.
#10: Capital One (Best Online Accessibility)
Capital One provides flexible online banking tools alongside competitive rewards programs tailored to startups.
Pros:
Top-rated mobile app with integrated credit monitoring tools
No minimum deposit requirements on basic accounts
Cashback rewards on business credit cards
Cons:
Limited physical branch presence in Delaware
Verdict: Ideal for tech-savvy entrepreneurs looking to grow their business digitally.
Comparison Table
Bank | Monthly Fee | Min Deposit | Min Balance | Transaction Limits | ATM Access | Mobile App Rating | Branches in DE |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Holdings | $0 | $0 | $0 | Unlimited | Allpoint Network | 4.8/5 | None |
WSFS Bank | $10-$25 | $100 | $3,500+ | 100+ | Local Network | 4.5/5 | 20+ |
Chase | $15 | $25 | $2,000+ | 100+ | Extensive Network | 4.7/5 | 100+ |
M&T Bank | $10-$50 | $50 | Varies | 100+ | Regional Network | 4.5/5 | 50+ |
TD Bank | $25 | None | $1,500+ | Unlimited | Nationwide | 4.6/5 | 10+ |
Conclusion
Delaware’s pro-business environment makes it an attractive location for entrepreneurs, but choosing the right bank is essential to navigating financial challenges effectively. Whether you prioritize low costs, high yields, or personalized service, there’s an option tailored to your needs. For those seeking a cutting-edge digital-first solution, Holdings stands out as the best choice. Open your account today at GetHoldings.com and take your business finances to the next level!