Metro Bank Business Account Review (2025)

Metro Bank effectively combines in-store and online banking, catering to UK businesses that prioritise personal service and digital convenience.

The account entices new clients with a 31-month fee-free period, making it financially attractive for small businesses starting out. However, determining whether it’s the right fit for your business requires a deeper look.

This review will delve into critical factors such as pricing, security, and customer service quality. By examining the advantages and drawbacks and the effectiveness of Metro Bank’s digital tools, this article provides a detailed guide to Metro Bank’s business banking offerings.

Metro Bank Business Bank Account

Monthly Fee

£0

Bank Transfers

30p

30 Free per month

Card Purchases

30p

30 Free per month

Overdraft

Yes

FSCS Protection

No

Our Rating

Accessibility

Access your Metro Bank account via the web or the mobile app

See Deal

On Metro Bank’s Website

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Metro Bank Business Account At A Glance

This table provides a succinct overview of the Metro Bank business account offerings, emphasising the diverse range of account types available, the advantageous initial fee-free period, and the subsequent balance requirements.

Feature	Details
Account Types	Business Bank Account, Commercial Current Account, Community Current Account, Foreign Currency Account, Insolvency Practitioner Account
Balance Requirements	No minimum balance during 31-month introductory offer; £6,000 minimum balance to waive fees post-offer
Key Benefits	31-month fee-free banking for new switchers, dedicated Local Business Managers, robust digital tools (including Xero integration)
Monthly Fees	£8 monthly fee post-introductory period (waived if balance remains above £6,000)
Learn More	Visit Metro Bank

Metro Bank Business Account Pros and Cons

Pros

• Extended Fee-Free Period: New customers benefit from a 31-month fee-free period, significantly reducing initial banking costs. This extended period is particularly beneficial for startups and small businesses seeking to minimise expenses while establishing operations.
• Relationship-Based Banking: Local business managers offer personalised, in-store support, ideal for those who prefer face-to-face interaction. This approach helps build a stronger rapport and understanding between the bank and its business clients, ensuring tailored financial advice.
• Comprehensive Digital Tools: The bank’s highly rated mobile app and robust online platform facilitate efficient finance management and transaction monitoring. These tools are essential for modern businesses requiring real-time financial data access to make informed decisions quickly.
• Xero Integration: Direct bank feeds with Xero streamline bookkeeping, enhancing financial management for its users. This integration supports seamless financial tracking and reporting, crucial for maintaining accurate business records.
• Security Measures: Enhanced fraud prevention through Strong Customer Authentication and an AI-powered Scam Checker. These security features provide businesses with the necessary tools to protect themselves against financial fraud, increasing trust and safety in their banking transactions.

Cons

• Post-Introductory Fees: Fees apply after the introductory period unless a minimum balance of £6,000 is maintained. This could be a potential drawback for businesses that cannot meet this requirement, leading to increased operational costs.
• Cash Handling Charges: Post-offer, a 1% fee on cash deposits and withdrawals affects cash-intensive businesses. This fee may impact businesses like retail stores and restaurants that handle a large volume of cash transactions daily.
• Limited Branch Network: The absence of branches in Scotland and Northern Ireland limits physical access for some businesses. This constricts the bank’s ability to serve businesses in these regions, potentially leading them to seek other banking options with better geographical coverage.
• Mixed Customer Service Reviews: While in-store services are well-regarded, telephone support has been criticised for slow responses and ineffective resolution. This inconsistency in service quality can be frustrating for businesses that rely on timely support to resolve financial issues.

What Are the Key Features of the Metro Bank Business Account?

The Metro Bank Business Account offers a comprehensive blend of traditional and digital banking solutions tailored to the diverse requirements of UK small businesses. Here are the key features and benefits that stand out:

• Branch Access and Relationship-Based Banking: Metro Bank’s extensive branch network ensures businesses receive direct support from Local Business Managers (LBMs). This setup benefits businesses that value personalised advice and face-to-face interactions, enhancing the banking experience.

• Generous Introductory Offer: Metro Bank provides a 31-month fee-free period to support new businesses. This includes exemptions from monthly maintenance fees on cash transactions up to £10,000 per month, offering significant financial relief during the crucial early stages of business development.

• Digital Tools and Mobile Banking: Recognised for its simple and easy to use design, the Metro Bank mobile app supports efficient on-the-go banking. It includes account management, payment transfers, receipt management, and spending analysis. Integrating popular payment systems like Apple Pay and Google Pay further enhances its convenience, simplifying everyday banking tasks.

• Accounting Software Integration: Metro Bank offers seamless integration for businesses using Xero, facilitating streamlined financial management. This feature automates transaction imports and reduces the need for manual bookkeeping, saving time and reducing errors, which is especially valuable for Xero users.

• Overdraft Options: Metro Bank provides flexible overdraft facilities, with limits up to £60,000 based on eligibility. This flexibility is crucial for managing cash flow variations and addressing unforeseen expenses, offering peace of mind and financial stability.

• Security Features: At Metro Bank, security is a top priority. Features like multi-factor authentication and the innovative AI-driven Scam Checker tool protect against fraud and ensure customer data is secure through advanced encryption techniques.

Metro Business Bank Account Pricing

Metro Bank’s Business Account is particularly attractive due to its 31-month fee-free offer, which exempts businesses from monthly maintenance fees on eligible transactions, as long as cash deposits and withdrawals remain below £10,000 per month. Additionally, there is no minimum balance requirement during this period.

After the introductory 31 months, a monthly maintenance fee of £8 is applicable but can be waived if a minimum balance of £6,000 is maintained. This also entitles the account holder to 30 free UK transactions per month. Should the balance drop below £6,000, a charge of 30p per transaction is incurred.

Service	Fee
Monthly Account Maintenance Fee	£8 (waived with a £6,000 balance)
UK Transaction Fees	30p per transaction after the first 30 free transactions
Cash Handling Fees	1% of the total amount (waived up to £10,000/month during the initial period)
International Payments	SWIFT: £25 per transaction SEPA: 20p per transaction
CHAPS Payments	£25 per transfer
Foreign Transactions (Outside Europe)	2.99% + £1.50 per transaction

The account also offers overdraft facilities with limits up to £60,000 at a 15.28% EAR, subject to credit approval. Notably, there are no Paid/Unpaid Item fees.

Metro Bank’s pricing structure is competitive, particularly beneficial during the extended fee-free period for new customers. It’s ideal for businesses that maintain higher balances post-promotion or those in their initial growth phase seeking cost-effective banking solutions. However, companies with frequent international transactions or lower cash reserves may find the fees less appealing than other banks offering better terms for such activities.

Ease of Use

Metro Bank’s Business Account is renowned for seamlessly integrating advanced online features with exceptional in-store services, making it ideal for UK businesses seeking a hassle-free banking experience.

The mobile app stands out for its user-friendliness. It offers real-time notifications and straightforward navigation that simplifies tasks such as fund transfers, managing payments, and reviewing transaction histories. The integration of Apple Pay and Google Pay significantly boosts transaction convenience, catering to businesses’ modern needs.

In physical branches, Metro Bank excels in personalised customer service. Local Business Managers are on hand to address complex banking needs or to aid those who prefer more traditional banking methods. This dual approach ensures that every customer receives tailored support, whether they favour digital solutions or personal interactions.

Opening an account with Metro Bank is designed to be swift. It often allows for same-day setup in-store, which is particularly beneficial for businesses requiring immediate banking solutions. While there are occasional reports regarding glitches with some of the app’s more sophisticated features, these issues are typically minor and do not detract from the overall quality of the user experience.

How Secure Is Your Business Account with Metro Bank?

Metro Bank prioritises the security of your business account with multiple high-level protections. Deposits up to £85,000 are safeguarded under the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS), providing substantial security for account holders.

The bank employs 256-bit SSL encryption to protect your sensitive data during transactions. Additionally, Metro Bank’s fraud prevention is strengthened by the Metro Bank Scam Checker, powered by Ask Silver, which actively helps detect potential scams and fraud. Multi-factor authentication further secures your account, and a dedicated authenticator app supports it for safe access and transactions.

While these protections meet industry standards, Metro Bank’s proactive fraud awareness tools, particularly the Scam Checker, offer enhanced security. Businesses are advised to remain vigilant and implement security measures to complement the bank’s services.

How Does Metro Bank Support Its Business Customers?

Metro Bank offers comprehensive support options specifically designed for business customers. These support channels are meticulously tailored to meet the diverse needs of businesses, ensuring accessibility and efficiency in handling queries. Here’s a detailed look at the support services provided:

• Branch Visits: Local Business Managers (LBMs) are readily available at every Metro Bank branch across the UK. They provide bespoke face-to-face advice, showcasing the bank’s dedication to personalised service and direct customer engagement.
  
• Phone Support: For direct telephone assistance, dedicated business customer phone lines are operational from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Additionally, a general customer service line is available outside these hours, offering continuous support and ensuring that help is always just a call away.
  
• Online Resources: While Metro Bank does not offer online chat, their website has a comprehensive FAQ section and various help guides. These resources are designed to address common queries effectively and provide insightful banking information, enhancing the digital support experience.

Feedback on Metro Bank’s customer service varies. The mobile app is frequently praised for its ease of use, and the in-branch services are recognised for their personal touch and effectiveness. However, some reviews point out slower response times and challenges when handling complex queries through phone support. These insights suggest areas for enhancing Metro Bank’s remote customer service capabilities.

Metro Bank Business Account Customer Reviews

Metro Bank’s business account receives high praise for its mobile app functionality, boasting impressive ratings of 4.8 out of 5 on the Apple App Store and 4.6 on Google Play. Users frequently commend the app for its user-friendly design and efficiency, which significantly streamlines daily banking activities for business owners.

Positive Feedback

• Many customers appreciate the swift and effective branch service, particularly highlighting the immediate card replacement feature as a standout benefit.
  
• Business owners also benefit from the extended branch opening hours, which offer greater flexibility for managing banking needs outside typical business hours.
  
• Another highly praised aspect is the personalised service provided by Local Business Managers, which facilitates valuable face-to-face interactions that enhance customer support.

Negative Feedback

• However, Metro Bank’s rating on Trustpilot tells a different story, standing at a lower 1.9 out of 5. A common complaint among users is the slow customer service response times, which can significantly hinder businesses needing timely support.
  
• Customers also express dissatisfaction with the bank’s handling of complex issues, such as those involving locked and trust accounts requiring more nuanced support.
  
• There is notable frustration regarding the bank’s approach to non-routine challenges, suggesting improvement.

What are the Eligibility Requirements for a Metro Bank Business Account?

To open a Metro Bank Business Account, businesses must meet several specific eligibility criteria:

• Age Requirement: All applicants must be at least 18 years old.
  
• Residency: The individual must be a UK resident for sole traders or accounts with a single signatory. If the account has multiple signatories or directors, at least half must reside in the UK.
  
• Turnover Limit: This account is designed for businesses with an annual turnover of less than £2 million.
  
• Business Structure: Eligible business structures include sole traders, limited companies, companies limited by guarantee, and limited liability partnerships.
  
• Documentation: Essential documents required are proof of identity and a UK address for all account signatories.

These criteria ensure that Metro Bank can effectively serve a wide range of small businesses while adhering to necessary regulatory standards.

How to Apply for a Metro Bank Business Account: Step-by-Step

Applying for a Metro Bank Business Account is streamlined across three platforms: online, via mobile app, or in-branch. Follow these steps for a seamless application:

1. Gather Required Documents: Prepare essential documents before starting your application, including proof of identity (e.g., passport or driving licence), proof of address (e.g., utility bill or bank statement), and any relevant business registration documents.
   
2. Choose Your Application Method:
   • Online: Visit the Metro Bank website, navigate the business accounts section, and select ‘Apply Now’.
   • Mobile App: Download the Metro Bank app, register, and follow the instructions to apply.
   • In-Branch: Bring your documents to your nearest Metro Bank branch, where a Local Business Manager will assist you.
     
3. Complete the Application Form: Fill in the form with your business details, such as turnover, structure, and contact information.
   
4. Submit Your Documents: Depending on your chosen application method, you can upload or hand over your identification and business documents.
   
5. Verification Process: Metro Bank will review and verify your documents. Be prepared for possible additional queries or requests for further information.
   
6. Account Approval and Activation: You’ll receive your new account details once your application is approved. If you applied in-branch, your account may be activated the same day.

Comparing Metro Bank with Starling Bank and HSBC: Which is Best for Your Business?

Comparing features and benefits across different providers is crucial when evaluating the best business bank account. Here’s how Metro Bank stacks up against its competitors, Starling Bank and HSBC:

Feature	Metro Bank	Starling Bank	HSBC Business Banking Account
Account Fees	31-month fee-free offer, then £8/month unless £6,000 balance maintained	No monthly fees	First 12 months fee-free offer, then £10/month
Transaction Fees	30p per transaction if below £6,000 balance	Free UK transactions	Free online and card payments
Digital Tools	Mobile app, online banking, Xero integration (fee applies)	Comprehensive app with budgeting tools	Advanced app with various integrations
Branch Network	Limited branches in England and Wales	Fully digital, no branches	Extensive UK branch network
Customer Support	In-store Local Business Managers	24/7 in-app chat support	Phone and in-branch support
Learn More	Visit Metro Bank	Visit Starling Bank	Visit HSBC

Metro Bank offers a standout 31-month fee-free period, ideal for businesses aiming to reduce initial costs. It combines relationship-based banking with the support of local business managers, providing a personal touch that is absent in fully digital banks like Starling.

However, its limited number of branches and the £6,000 balance requirement to avoid fees may deter some businesses. Conversely, HSBC appeals to those seeking traditional banking with its extensive branch network, albeit at a higher monthly cost. Choosing the right bank depends on your business’s needs and how you value personal interaction versus digital convenience.

Metro Bank Business Account FAQs