Bank Rates

Guide to Business Banking Rates and Quotes

Take advantage of the Web to shop for the best deals
By Meagan Francis

When choosing a bank to do business with, you'll probably look at many factors — from monthly fees to the branch's hours and proximity to your office. But whether you're opening a simple checking account, looking for a loan, or investing, you'll want to check out interest rates before you settle on a financial institution.

Interest rates can affect your business's bottom line in a variety of ways:

1. The amount of interest you can earn through your business's checking or savings account,
2. The amount of interest your business can earn through investments like certificates of deposit (CDs) and money-market accounts, and
3. The amount of interest you'll pay on loans or lines of credit to start or grow your business.

Action Steps

The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Compare account rates online Interest rates on checking accounts, CDs, money market accounts and more can vary even in the same geographical area. Find out all your options by calling around or visiting an online search before you decide which financial institution should get your business.

I recommend:  Bankrate.com's Small Business section features a database with rates on checking and high-yield accounts nationwide.

Use an online bank Financial institutions that do their business online often have lower overhead than brick-and-mortar banks, meaning they can pass their savings on to you through higher interest rates.

I recommend:  ING Direct offers several financial products, including CDs, savings accounts, and mutual funds, and is backed by the power of a major international financial institution.

Shop for low-cost credit Even a small difference in your business credit or loan interest rate can add up to a lot over the course of the loan. Search carefully for the best terms before you choose a lender.

I recommend:  LendingTree.com allows you to search for the best rates on business lines of credit, credit cards, and other financing.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• Whether you're choosing a line of credit or a savings account, check the fine print for fees and other unwelcome surprises.
• Interest rates are often negotiable, particularly if the bank believes it will lose your business otherwise.
• Talk to your banker periodically to make sure you're still getting the best deal possible for your business. As the market fluctuates and your business grows, you may find yourself in a position to ask for better rates or take advantage of special offers.
• Keep an eye on the competition. Shop around periodically to make sure your financial institution is still giving you the best possible rates.