American Express Business Checking vs Small Business Checking: which one fits your business?
Side-by-side comparison of American Express Business Checking and Small Business Checking — fees, features, ease, support, and which one fits your business. Scored on the same rubric.
Short answer: American Express Business Checking wins on our scorecard (7.7/10 vs 7.3/10).
| Scored on | American Express Business Checking | Small Business Checking |
|---|---|---|
| Right fit for small biz | 7 | 8 |
| Ease of use | 8 | 7 |
| Fees & pricing | 9 | 7 |
| Customer support | 7 | 6 |
| Features | 7 | 8 |
| Monthly Maintenance Fee | $0 | $10 (Waivable) |
| Domestic ACH | $0 | — |
| Incoming Wires | $0 | — |
| Minimum Opening Deposit | $0 | — |
| Min. Balance to Waive Fee | — | $500 |
| Free Transactions | — | 150 per month |
| Cash Deposit Limit | — | $5,000 per month |
| Domestic Outgoing Wire | — | $30 |
American Express Business Checking in one paragraph
A powerhouse for existing Amex loyalists who want to earn passive interest on their cash without the headache of monthly maintenance fees.
Skip it if: You need to deposit physical cash regularly or require Zelle to pay your contractors.
Small Business Checking in one paragraph
A solid, low-hurdle traditional account for cash-heavy local businesses that can maintain a $500 balance.
Skip it if: You run a high-volume e-commerce store with more than 150 transactions per month.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, American Express Business Checking or Small Business Checking?
On our five-axis scorecard, American Express Business Checking scores higher (7.7/10 vs 7.3/10). A powerhouse for existing Amex loyalists who want to earn passive interest on their cash without the headache of monthly maintenance fees.
Who should skip American Express Business Checking?
You need to deposit physical cash regularly or require Zelle to pay your contractors.
Who should skip Small Business Checking?
You run a high-volume e-commerce store with more than 150 transactions per month.