Best bank for freelancers 2026
The best business accounts for freelancers compared on fees, invoicing tools, collecting payments and mobile app. Editorial ranking scored out of 100 according to our methodology.
- A dedicated business account becomes mandatory above €10,000 in turnover over two consecutive calendar years (PACTE law) — not necessarily a business account: a simple current account reserved for the business is enough.
- Qonto stands out for the richness of its management tools; Shine focuses on administrative support; Blank on simplicity for the self-employed.
- Compare beyond the subscription: out-of-quota transfers, withdrawals, card acceptance and commissions often weigh more than the monthly plan.
- ⚠️ This comparison does not constitute personalised advice; check the conditions, the institution's status and the up-to-date fees of each player.
For a freelancer, the bank account is also a management tool: invoicing, expense categorisation, payment collection and accounting export matter as much as the subscription price. Be careful to distinguish the legal obligation — a dedicated account (not necessarily a business account) above €10,000 in turnover over two consecutive years — from the choice of a true business account for its services. This comparison is an editorial ranking scored out of 100 using the same grid; it does not replace checking the status and up-to-date conditions of each player.
Our methodology
Each option is scored out of 100 against weighted criteria, using the same grid for all.
| Criterion | What we look at | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Fees | Monthly subscription, transactions, cards | 30 |
| Management tools | Invoicing, categorisation, accounting export | 25 |
| Collecting payments | Transfers, payment link, card terminal | 20 |
| App & experience | Usability and features | 15 |
| Customer service | Availability and responsiveness | 10 |
The 2026 ranking
Qonto
Shine
Blank
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Comparison table
| Player | Subscription | Invoicing | Payment collection | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Qonto | From a few € excl. VAT | Integrated | Complete | 92 |
| Shine | From a few € excl. VAT | Integrated | Depends on offer | 89 |
| Blank | Reduced basic / from a few € excl. VAT | Integrated | Depends on offer | 85 |
Frequently asked questions
Does a freelancer need a business account?
Not necessarily a "business" account. Since the PACTE law, a bank account dedicated to the business becomes mandatory when turnover exceeds €10,000 over two consecutive calendar years, with 12 months to become compliant. The law does not require a professional account: a simple current account reserved exclusively for the business may suffice. Below the threshold, a separate account is still strongly advised.
What is the difference between a business account and a dedicated account?
A dedicated account is a current account reserved for the business, often cheaper. A business account offers extended services (business IBAN, invoicing tools, payment collection, multi-user) but costs more. For a freelancer, a dedicated account is enough to meet the legal obligation; the business account is mainly justified by management needs.
Is an online business account enough for invoicing?
Several players integrate invoicing and accounting-export tools. Check that they handle the VAT-exemption statement and your specific needs before subscribing.
Are these accounts real banks?
Some are payment institutions, others are backed by banks. Check the status, authorisation and how funds are protected before subscribing.
🗓️ Update history
- 05/08/2026 — Verification of players and facts, 2026 update.
- 12/07/2026 — Updated offers and management tools.
- 07/03/2026 — Comparison created.
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