Santander Business Bank Account

fawinds

I am looking towards opening a business bank account for a limited company. It is a start-up business and it will be its first business account.

To be honest, I do not want to have to go through an interview with a bank business adviser and would like to do the whole application process online.

It seems this is the way with Santander and they even have a business savings account that can be opened online too. Anyone banking with them could confirm this point, especially that you do not need the interview with the business advisor?

Any other bank that will open the account online?

Thanks in advance.

martinman3

Although it was a few years ago that the accounts were opened, I can confirm that there is no interview in a branch.

The reason for that is business customers cannot use any facilities of a branch except the ATM and staff know nothing about business accounts.

ImBlonde

@Martinman3:
Even though the OP does not wish to open the account in branch it can be done by a PBA (personal banking adviser) if you are a sole trader and want no overdraft as they are trained to do so. However, to open a business bank account for a limited company/partnership you need to see an SBA (small business advisor) who are also trained to do so but are not available in all branches.

@Fawinds:
This, as you rightly say and wish to do so, can also all be done online

pipsi_2

I tried to open a Santander business account in a branch today and was seen straight away by someone who sounded like she did them fairly frequently, i got declined which i guess i was half expecting (despite making it quite clear that i didn't want an overdraft or a credit card). The lady who dealt with me said it was the first time she'd ever seen a business account declined.

fawinds

pipsi wrote: »

I tried to open a Santander business account in a branch today and was seen straight away by someone who sounded like she did them fairly frequently, i got declined which i guess i was half expecting (despite making it quite clear that i didn't want an overdraft or a credit card). The lady who dealt with me said it was the first time she'd ever seen a business account declined.

Well, I have just submitted my online application. Will know the outcome within three working days.

Alternatively, if not accepted, I will try Cater Allen Bank, though they are owned by Santander.

property.advert

I have Santander accounts and whilst there was a delay in opening the accounts, I never had to visit any branch.

fawinds

Just an update, I have received today the email requesting that I send ID, a cheque with the opening balance and give further details about the business.

I guess this is good news, otherwise I believe they'd have turned me down straight away.