If you’re a business owner tired of dealing with the usual high-street banks, Zempler Bank could offer a more flexible and inclusive alternative. As a fully regulated and FSCS-protected UK bank, Zempler supports various business types, including micro-businesses, sole traders, partnerships, limited companies, and registered charities.
Zempler now offers three core business account options: Business Go, Business Extra, and Business Pro. Each account caters to different business needs and transaction volumes. Business Go remains a no-monthly-fee option aimed at startups and low-transaction users, while Business Extra introduces added features like cashback and the Business Creditbuilder tool for £9 a month. Business Pro is designed for high-activity businesses, offering 500 free payments and advanced tools for more complex financial operations.
All accounts include real-time transaction notifications, 24/7 fraud monitoring, and full compatibility with leading accounting platforms such as Xero, QuickBooks, and Sage. You can also access UK-based customer support, manage your finances via desktop or app, and deposit cash at over 11,000 Post Office branches, although this comes with a 0.55% fee, with a £4 minimum.
While Zempler also provides personal accounts and unique credit-building tools, this review focuses on its business offering, which continues to stand out for its ease of use, transparent pricing, and modern approach to everyday banking. Just bear in mind that features like international payments and cheque deposits are not currently supported, so it’s important to assess whether Zempler fits your specific operational needs.
Zempler Bank Business Go Account
Zempler Bank Business Extra Account
Zempler Bank Business Pro Account
Zempler Bank’s Offering: The Verdict
I’ve tested Zempler Bank across multiple accounts, and it’s one of the most efficient digital options I’ve used for small business banking. The onboarding process took less than ten minutes, and the interface is clean, fast, and built with real business workflows in mind. Integration with accounting platforms like Xero and QuickBooks worked without friction, which made reconciliation noticeably easier.
If you’re just starting out or running a tight ship, the Business Go account delivers strong value with no monthly fee. It covers the essentials without adding bloat. For businesses processing larger volumes or looking to get more back from their spend, Business Extra and Business Pro offer clear benefits like cashback, higher limits, and no-fee ATM access.
Zempler won’t suit every business — it’s built for digital-first teams, not cash-heavy operations — but for modern SMEs looking to streamline without compromising control, it’s a smart, well-executed choice.
Top Perks for Businesses
- Fast application process – 99.94% of applicants receive their account number and sort code on the same day.
- Ideal for growing teams – Easily issue up to 20 employee cards with spending controls.
- Smart budgeting tools – Use pots to separate funds for taxes, savings, or projects.
- Real-time accounting sync – Integrates with Xero, QuickBooks, and Sage to simplify reconciliation.
- FSCS-protected – Your funds are safeguarded up to £85,000 under UK regulation.
Points to Consider
- No cheque deposit functionality – May be a limitation for businesses that still receive cheques.
- Cash deposit fees – Charged at 0.55% (minimum £4), with a £6,000 daily limit.
- Restricted business types – Certain industries, like crypto, firearms, and gambling, are not supported.
Overall, Zempler Bank suits businesses seeking a modern, feature-rich banking experience without the red tape of traditional banks. Just ensure the fee structure and deposit limitations align with your business’s operations.
Pros & Cons of Zempler Bank
Pros
- Fast Setup – 99.94% of business applicants receive their account number and sort code on the same day.
- Flexible Account Options – Choose from Business Go (no monthly fee), Business Extra (with cashback and added features), or Business Pro (higher payment limits and more inclusive pricing).
- Built-in Accounting Integration – Direct connection to Xero, QuickBooks, Sage, and FreeAgent—at no additional cost.
- Robust Security – Includes 24/7 fraud monitoring and instant card freeze/unfreeze functionality via app or online.
- Cashback & Overdraft Options – Get 0.5% cashback with Business Extra, 1% with Business Pro, and access to an overdraft of up to £2,000 (subject to approval).
Cons
- No Cheque Deposits – Not suitable for businesses that regularly receive payments by cheque.
- Cash Deposit Fees Apply – Charged at 0.55% of the amount (minimum £4), with a daily deposit limit of £6,000.
- Restricted Sectors – Certain industries like cryptocurrency, gambling, and firearms are not eligible for an account.
- Reduced Customer Support Hours – From 16 December 2024, support will be available Monday to Friday, 8am–6pm, which may not suit businesses needing out-of-hours help.
Balancing these strengths and limitations will help you judge whether Zempler Bank fits the way your business banks day-to-day.
Key Features
Zempler Bank provides a suite of tools tailored to small businesses, sole traders, and freelancers who need a simple, intuitive way to manage finances digitally.
Accounting Integrations
- Seamless syncing with Xero, QuickBooks, Sage, and FreeAgent—at no extra cost.
- Export CSV files easily for offline records or uploads to other systems.
- Tag receipts directly in the app and attach them to specific transactions for better expense tracking.
Spending Insights
- Automatically categorise outgoings (e.g. supplies, payroll, marketing) to monitor spending.
- Create custom tags or project labels to track business costs more precisely.
- View real-time summaries to make informed budgeting decisions quickly.
Pots
- Create separate “pots” for tax, savings, or project-specific budgets.
- Move money in or out instantly—no fees and no delays.
- Ideal for businesses managing irregular cash flow or preparing for seasonal expenses.
Multiple Cards & Team Access
- Issue up to 20 debit cards to staff or team members.
- Control user access levels—restrict spending or view-only permissions as needed.
- Monitor card usage to keep team spending accountable.
Fraud Monitoring & Card Controls
- 24/7 monitoring with instant alerts on unusual or suspicious activity.
- Freeze or unfreeze cards immediately through the app if something doesn’t look right.
- Enhanced security without disrupting day-to-day operations.
These tools are designed to help you manage your business finances more clearly, efficiently, and securely—whether you’re a one-person operation or growing a small team.
Brief History of Zempler Bank
Zempler Bank, which started out as Cashplus Bank in 2005, quickly made a name for itself as one of the first to offer prepaid credit cards in the UK—a fresh idea at the time. Then in 2021, it took things to the next level, becoming a fully regulated bank and broadening its services to meet the needs of even more customers. Since then, Zempler has earned a reputation for championing small businesses and individuals who are often overlooked by traditional high-street banks.
Key Milestones
- 2021: Officially became a fully licensed UK bank, focusing on financial inclusion.
- 2023: Voted one of the top 100 large financial services companies to work for in the UK.
- 2024: Zempler reported a pre-tax profit of £3.3 million, highlighting its steady growth and financial stability.
- 2025: Finalist at the Brest British Bank Awards for five categories, including Best British Bank, Best Business Banking provider and Best Banking App.
Its journey shows a clear focus on making everyday banking simpler and more accessible for everyone. To stay ahead of the game, Zempler continues to introduce new features like integrated accounting, instant account opening, and real-time fraud monitoring, keeping pace with the needs of modern customers.
Who Can Open a Zempler Bank Account?
Zempler Bank is open to various types of businesses, from sole traders and partnerships to charities and limited companies. However, they do enforce certain rules:
Age & Residency
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- You need to be a UK resident.
Business Requirements
- Your business must be based in the UK.
- Certain industries are excluded: cryptocurrency, firearms, large tobacco dealers, and more.
Verification
- You’ll typically need a passport or driving licence and a recent utility bill or bank statement for address checks.
- If Zempler can’t verify your details electronically, you may need to submit additional documents.
No complex credit checks are required to open a basic business account, which is especially helpful for newer ventures. However, if you’re dealing in restricted sectors or your documentation doesn’t match Zempler’s guidelines, your application may be declined.
Account Types
Zempler offers three business accounts designed to suit a range of business sizes, transaction volumes, and budgeting needs:
1. Business Go (£0/month)
- 3 free outbound payments per month; 35p per payment thereafter.
- ATM withdrawals cost £2 in the UK and £3 abroad.
- Cash deposits at the Post Office: £4 minimum or 0.55% of the deposit.
- Best for businesses that make few payments and want to avoid monthly fees.
2. Business Extra (£9/month)
- 20 free outbound payments; 35p per payment thereafter.
- Free ATM withdrawals in the UK and abroad.
- 0.5% cashback on card spend (up to £1,000/month).
- Includes overdraft eligibility (subject to approval).
- Suitable for businesses with moderate transaction needs that want more flexibility and rewards.
3. Business Pro (£19/month)
- First 500 outbound payments are free; 35p each thereafter.
- Unlimited free ATM withdrawals worldwide.
- 1% cashback on card spend (up to £1,000/month).
- Higher outbound payment thresholds and enhanced account limits.
- Ideal for higher-volume businesses needing more generous allowances.
All three accounts come with core features like accounting software integrations (Xero, QuickBooks, Sage), real-time spending insights, pots for budgeting, up to 20 team debit cards, and 24/7 fraud protection. The right account for you depends on your monthly transaction volume and whether added perks like cashback and fee-free withdrawals matter to your business.
Opening an Account with Zempler Bank
Getting started with Zempler Bank is straightforward:
1. Online Application
- Fill out personal and business details via the Zempler website or app.
- 99.94% of customers receive their account number the same day.
2. Document Verification
- Upload proofs of ID and address if prompted.
- No credit check is generally required.
3. Receive Your Debit Card
- Cards typically arrive within 3–5 working days.
- You can add extra cards for team members or departments if needed.
4. Start Banking
- Manage your finances through the online portal or mobile app.
- Set up inbound payments, schedule transactions, and integrate your accounting software.
If your details aren’t verified automatically, you might have a slight delay, but most users report a swift process. And once you’re in, you can access all the standard banking features plus extras like Pots and real-time insights.
What are the Zempler Bank Fees & Charges?
Zempler Bank’s fees vary across the three account tiers. Below is an overview focusing on business transactions:
Business Go (£0/month)
- Outbound Payments: 3 free, then 35p each.
- ATM Withdrawals: £2 in the UK, £3 abroad.
- Cash Deposits: Min £4 or 0.55% of amount, capped at £6k per day.
- Inbound International Payments: £15 each.
Business Extra (£9/month)
- Outbound Payments: 20 free, then 35p each.
- ATM Withdrawals: Free in the UK and abroad.
- Cash Deposits: Same as above.
- Inbound International Payments: £15 each.
- Cashback: 0.5% on card spend.
Business Pro (£19/month)
- Outbound Payments: First 500 free, then 35p after.
- ATM Withdrawals: Free in the UK and abroad.
- Cash Deposits: Same as above.
- Inbound International Payments: £15 each.
- Cashback: 1% on card spend.
Be mindful of any fees for rejected Direct Debits or if you exceed your free payment allowance. Check Zempler’s website for a complete breakdown, especially if you foresee high-volume transactions.
Is Zempler Bank Safe?
Zempler Bank is a fully regulated UK bank, which means it’s authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) and regulated by both the PRA and the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). In short, it’s held to the same high standards as any traditional high-street bank. On top of that, your deposits are protected up to £85,000 by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS), so you’ve got an extra layer of reassurance.
Robust Security Measures
- TLS Encryption & Audits: Zempler uses strong encryption to safeguard your data and undergoes regular third-party security checks.
- Auto Timeouts: After a spell of inactivity, your account automatically locks to prevent unauthorised access.
- 24/7 Fraud Monitoring: The bank’s systems keep an eye on transactions day and night, flagging anything suspicious.
User-Level Security
- Instant Card Freeze: If your card goes missing, you can freeze it straight away in the app.
- Two-Step Verification: Where available, Zempler adds an extra layer of login protection, so it’s harder for anyone else to get in.
Zempler also provides detailed security advice to help you recognise and report scams, which is especially handy if you’re new to online banking or just want to stay vigilant. All these measures show the bank takes security seriously, giving you confidence that your business finances are in safe hands.
Is Zempler Bank Good for International Payments?
If you regularly receive or spend money internationally, Zempler Bank offers a few useful—but not standout—features for global transactions.
Receiving Money from Abroad
Zempler supports inbound international transfers in GBP and EUR from countries like the USA, Australia, and across the EU.
- Each inbound international payment incurs a flat £15 fee.
- Funds must be sent via SWIFT; Zempler does not support SEPA or local currency payment rails.
Currency Conversion
If the incoming funds are in a different currency from your account, expect a currency conversion fee in addition to the £15 charge.
- Exchange rates are typically set by Zempler’s intermediary banking partners and may include a margin.
Travel & Overseas Spend
- Business Extra and Business Pro customers benefit from fee-free ATM withdrawals abroad.
- Business Go users will pay a 2.99% non-sterling transaction fee on card spend abroad.
- Zempler no longer offers prepaid travel cards in euros or US dollars.
Is It Right for International Business?
Zempler can handle occasional international payments and travel needs reasonably well. However, the fixed fees and lack of advanced FX tools mean it’s not the best fit for businesses with high-volume or high-frequency international transactions. In that case, you may want to consider pairing Zempler with a specialist like Wise, Payoneer, or Revolut Business.
Does Zempler Bank Offer an Overdraft?
Yes—Zempler Bank provides a modest overdraft facility up to £2,000, which can offer peace of mind when cash flow takes a temporary dip.
Eligibility
- Must have held a Zempler business account for at least three months.
- Overdraft offers may appear via email, SMS, or in-app if you qualify.
Interest & Fees
- First £5 of any overdraft usage is interest-free.
- An annual overdraft fee starts from £50, plus daily interest on amounts above £5.
- Rates can range anywhere from 1% to 99.9% depending on your terms.
Keep in mind that if you anticipate needing larger, longer-term borrowing, you might explore business loans from alternative lenders or high-street banks. The Zempler overdraft feels more like a short-term safety net.
What is Zempler Bank Creditbuilder?
Although Zempler’s Creditbuilder feature is more commonly discussed for personal accounts, a similar concept applies to its business offering. Essentially, Zempler treats your monthly fees like a small “loan” reported to credit reference agencies. By making your monthly account payments on time, you can potentially boost your credit profile.
How It Works
- Sign up and agree to treat your monthly fees as a repayment.
- Timely payments are reported to credit reference agencies.
- Missed payments or delays may harm rather than help your score.
If you’re a new or smaller business with a limited credit history, this could be a valuable tool, though it won’t suit every scenario. Always be mindful of other factors affecting your creditworthiness, such as general business cash flow and outstanding debts.
Zempler Personal Credit Card
While our focus is on business solutions, you might also be curious about Zempler’s personal credit card—especially if you want to keep all your banking in one place. The card is by invitation only and targets individuals who’ve maintained a positive track record with their Zempler account.
Key Details
- Representative APR: 39.9% (variable).
- Interest-Free Period: Up to 56 days on purchases if paid in full each month.
- Cash Withdrawal Rate: High at around 49.94%, so best used only in emergencies.
That said, if you’re purely after a business-focused credit card, Zempler also offers a Business Credit Card with similar features but tailored benefits, such as 1% cashback on up to £100,000 in monthly spending for Business Pro clients.
Zempler Bank Customer Service
Zempler’s customer service is based in the UK, which can be reassuring if you need to resolve something quickly. Current hours (until 16 Dec 2024) are Monday to Friday, 8am–8pm, and Saturday 8am–4pm. Afterwards, weekday hours will shorten to 8am–6pm.
Channels
- Phone Support: Direct line for business account holders.
- Email & In-App Messaging: Useful for non-urgent queries.
- Online Help Centre: Guides for common tasks like payments, statements, or card management.
It’s worth noting that while many Trustpilot reviews praise the helpfulness of staff, others mention waiting longer than expected for replies. This mixed feedback suggests that service speed may vary during busy periods.
Trustpilot Ratings
Zempler Bank currently stands at an average of 3.5 stars from over 10,000 reviews on Trustpilot, classed as ‘Great.’ About half of reviewers rate it 5 stars, praising quick account setup, straightforward features, and responsive staff.
Positive Feedback
- Smooth onboarding
- Transparent fees
- Helpful phone support
Negative Feedback
- Delays in customer service replies
- Occasional dissatisfaction around payment rejections
- Limited branch services (everything is digital except Post Office deposits)
These reviews provide useful insights but remember that online feedback is often polarised. Your experience may differ depending on your business size, transaction volume, and personal preferences.
Alternatives to Zempler Bank
While Zempler Bank has plenty of plus points, you might want to compare it with other business banking providers:
Starling Bank
- Highly rated for its free business account.
- Lower international fees than many rivals.
- Soft credit check might be required.
- Visit Starling
Monzo Business
- Strong budgeting tools and intuitive app.
- Paid plans add multi-user access and tax pots.
- May have occasional restrictions based on business type.
- Visit Monzo
Revolut Business
- Great for multi-currency accounts and competitive FX rates.
- Some UK-based features (like direct debits) can be a bit more limited.
- Tiered plans with various allowances.
- Visit Revolut
Traditional High-Street Banks
- May offer larger lending facilities.
- Typically have slower onboarding and stricter credit checks.
Be clear about your priorities—cash deposits, transaction costs, overdrafts, or multi-currency support—before settling on a final choice.
At Business Expert, our review methodology for business bank accounts includes assessing key aspects to ensure comprehensive analysis:
- Features: Evaluation of account features and benefits.
- Fees: Examination of all associated costs.
- Reviews: Analysis of customer feedback across various platforms.
- User Experience: Assessment of online and mobile banking usability.
- Customer Support: Review of support channels and service quality.
- Application Process: Evaluation of the ease and efficiency of account setup.
- Eligibility Criteria: Overview of requirements for account opening.
This approach enables us to provide clear and concise guidance for businesses in selecting a suitable banking product.
Product details reflect the information that was available at that time but may have changed since
Zempler Banking FAQs
Zempler is a bank in its own right and a trading style of Add Advanced Payment Solutions (APS) Limited.
Zempler is a real bank: it received its full banking licence, with no restrictions, in February 2021.
Zempler Bank offers three business accounts, one of which is free called Business Go (with some per transaction charges), one of which is called Business Extra and has a £9 monthly fee, and the other is called Business Pro and is £19 per month.
Zempler Bank has some of the best online reviews of any bank, with a 4-star average rating on Trustpilot.
Yes. Zempler Bank does offer overdrafts for business accounts, but access is by invitation only. Eligibility depends on how long you’ve held your Zempler business account, alongside affordability checks.
- Overdraft Limit: Up to £2,000 (subject to approval).
Interest & Fees:
- The first £5 of your daily overdraft balance is interest-free.
- Annual fee starts at £50.
- Daily interest applies to amounts above £5, with rates ranging from 1% to 99.9% depending on your circumstances.
Remember, the overdraft is intended as a short-term safety net. Late or missed payments could affect your business credit score, so always ensure you have a solid plan in place for repaying any borrowed funds. If you need more substantial or long-term financing, consider exploring business loans or other credit options.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only. For personalised guidance, please consult a qualified financial adviser.
Opening an Account: Zempler Bank typically verifies your identity and address rather than performing a full credit check for a standard business or personal current account. This means opening an account usually doesn’t affect your credit file.
Credit Products: If you decide to apply for an overdraft or credit card later on, Zempler Bank may conduct a credit check to assess your eligibility and affordability.
Zempler Bank use 256-bit secure encryption to protect your account details, and business accounts are FSCS protected up to £85,000.
