Most banks prohibit doing business with their private accounts. To avoid problems with their bank, micro-entrepreneurs must open another bank account more suited to their status.
One professional account in the ideal bank allows to keep an overview and gives an impression of seriousness. If you are new to entrepreneurship and are looking for a bank to open a business account for your micro-enterprise, the options presented in this article may suit you.
Why choose an online bank for your micro-enterprise
Online banks have many advantages for micro-entrepreneurs. Here's why opting for an online bank can be the perfect solution to manage your professional finances.
Online banking benefits for micro-entrepreneurs
Online banks have competitive rates and simplified management. They provide instant access to your finances, tailored services such as instant transfers and financial management tools. In addition, you can save up to 50% on bank charges compared to traditional banks. These banks often offer useful features such as expense categorization, managing payment ceilings and practical tools such as card blocking in case of theft or loss.
Comparison with traditional banks
Traditional banks offer more diversified but often more expensive services. Online banks are specialized in the needs of micro-entrepreneurs with more flexible and cheaper offers. In general, they are more reactive and their interfaces are more accessible. For example, transfer times are often longer with traditional banks, while online banks offer instant transfers and notifications in real time after each transaction.
Impact on cash management
Managing a separate cash flow helps avoid mixing personal and professional funds, which facilitates tax controls and day-to-day management. Using an online bank makes it possible to have a clear view of professional expenses, which becomes important in case of inspection of the Urssaf.
Best online banks for micro-enterprises in 2025
Here is a detailed comparison of the best online banks for micro-enterprises in 2025, including rates, services offered, bank cards, and more.
Comparative table of bank offers
A comparative table of the main banking offers for micro-entrepreneurs, with details on monthly rates, types of bank cards, services included and insurance.
| Bank | Monthly rates | Cards offered | Services included | Assurances |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Qonto | From 9€ | Mastercard Business | Transfers, withdrawals, deposits | Travel insurance |
| Hello Bank | 10.90€/month | VISA Hello Business | Instant transfers, Cheques cashing | Hospitalisation compensation |
| Shine | 7.90€/month | Mastercard Business | Transfers, withdrawal, payment | Legal assistance |
Focus on specific features
Detailed presentation of the specific features of each online bank, such as Qonto's international transfers, Revolut's free currency payments, and Shine's financial management tools. For example, Qonto offers automated management of invoices and expenses, while Revolut offers real interbank exchange rates for international transfers, which is ideal for companies with customers or suppliers abroad.
Editorial opinions on each bank
Analysis of advantages and disadvantages of each online bank, based on customer reviews and experts.
- Qonto: Highlights – Simplified management, international transfers; Low points – High monthly fees.
- Hello Bank: Highlights – Simplified cheque collection, legal assistance; Low points – Higher rates than Shine.
- Shine: Highlights – Reduced bank charges, management tools; Weaknesses – Limitations on cheque receipts.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about online banks for micro-enterprises
Here are a series of frequently asked questions about online professional bank accounts and services offered.
Is the bank account mandatory for a micro-enterprise?
Since the PACTE Act, only micro-entrepreneurs with turnover of more than 10 000 € for two consecutive years must open a bank account dedicated to their business. But it is strongly recommended for better financial management. This recommendation is also valid to facilitate the control of tax authorities and to have separate management of personal and professional expenses.
What are the fees associated with an online bank?
Online bank charges are generally lower than those of traditional banks. This section details any account-keeping charges, international transaction charges, and other specific costs. For example, withdrawal fees in ATMs may be zero or reduced depending on the selected online bank.
How to deposit cash and cheques with an online bank?
Some online banks, such as Shine, Monabanq or Hello Bank, allow cash and cheque deposits. The following are the terms and possible costs associated with these deposits. Shine allows cheques to be cashed through its application, while Hello Bank offers the possibility to deposit cash and cheques in BNP Paribas distributors.
Customer reviews and reviews on online banks
Discover the experiences of micro-entrepreneurs with online banks, their opinions and the aspects they enjoy most.
Customer reviews
Collection of testimonials from micro-entrepreneurs using different online banks, with details of their satisfaction and the strengths of banking services.
To choose the best banking solution, discover our full guide on what account to open for your micro-enterprise.
- Jean, freelance in marketing: Qonto has revolutionized the management of my finances, their customer service is exceptional.
- Marie, jewel designer: Shine is perfect with simple and efficient tools to manage my business.
Case studies
Case studies illustrating how online banks have helped micro-entrepreneurs manage their finances and develop their business.
Example: Case study with Qonto for international transfers. Jean, a freelancer, was able to solve his payment problems with foreign customers thanks to the competitive exchange rates and quick transfers offered by Qonto.
Recommendations for complementary products and services
In addition to banking services, discover recommendations for complementary products and services useful for micro-entrepreneurs.
Physical and virtual credit cards
Let's look at the types of bank cards offered by different online banks, their costs, and their specific benefits.
- Qonto: Mastercard Business, including a virtual card.
- Hello Bank: VISA Hello Business, immediate or delayed debit option.
Credit offers and savings
Presentation of the availability of savings and credit products offered by online banks, as well as the conditions for subscription.
Example: Boursorama offers professional credits with attractive rates and consumer lending options tailored to the needs of micro-entrepreneurs.
Insurance and protection
Comparison of insurance services for professionals, including travel insurance, legal assistance, and material insurance.
- Qonto: Travel insurance included with credit cards.
- Shine: Legal assistance and accident insurance for professionals.