What is a startup account?

A business account is a current account specifically designed for companies. Just as with a personal current account, you can make and receive payments, only business accounts generally come with additional services that help support the company’s day-to-day finance management.

Is a separate business account mandatory?

A business account is only mandatory for corporations such as UG or GmbH. Self-employed persons and other legal forms, such as the OHG, which includes at least two natural or legal persons, are not required to maintain a business account. For most entrepreneurs it makes sense to open a business account for their company, if only to keep personal and business finances separate. Not only does it prevent any misattributions of funds, but come tax declaration time it makes it that much easier to outline your business’ financial activity, as well as provide justification when necessary.

How do I open a Qonto business account for my startup?

To open a business account with Qonto, you need the following information: legal name; type of company (legal form); registration date; your Steuernummer or Handelregisternummer; your VAT number (optional). Additionally, for identification purposes we’ll need you to take a video identification test via our partner, IDnow, where a consultant will check your identification documents online in real-time. You don’t even need a Schufa check.

When can I use a regular account as a business account?

Freelancers and Sole Proprietors can run their company using their personal current account. That said, should you decide to incorporate as a GmbH, GmbH & Co. KG, or AG you are legally required to hold a business account for said company, according to § 7 Abs. 2 S. 2 GmbHG.

Which business account is best suited for my startup?

Most people who found a startup have to consider the type of business account that’s suitable for their company. There is a whole spectrum of providers available on the market - traditional banks, online banks, finance management solutions, or neobanks. Many startups in the tech scene are attracted to the new business banking providers such as Qonto and Holvi: they focus on simple, fully digital business transaction management thanks to innovative computer technology. They also offer integrated tools with their accounts to make accounting and admin easier so that entrepreneurs can save precious time and energy. Qonto's customers include not only established SMEs but also young tech startups from Berlin and all over Germany. These startups are convinced by Qonto's straightforward design, innovative features, flexible card offering, and easily accessible customer service.

How do I create a business plan?

A well-thought-out, detailed business plan contributes significantly to your company's overall success. You need an innovative idea, extensive research about the industry, including your competition, capital, and a good team. An important part is a financial plan, which is essential for finding investors. Here’s an article that covers the essential steps you need to take to build a compelling business plan.

The all-in-one business account for your startup

Open an online account for your startup in just 10 minutes. Get access to bookkeeping and invoicing tools, best-in-class customer service, flexible payment methods, and an intuitive app for real-time cash flow control. Anytime. Anywhere.

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Over 400 000 companies trust Qonto

An award-winning product

Finance management made easy: track your sales in real-time, completely online
Sub-accounts with German IBANs: manage your cash flow in just a few clicks
Flexible plans starting at €9/month: pay for what you need- whichever way you grow
No hidden fees: fair, transparent pricing with no obligations

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Finance management at your fingertips

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Digital bookkeeping

Less paper, more work. Scan and store GoBD-compliant receipts directly on your app
Categorize expenses using customizeable tags
With Qonto Connect, synch your key account information with tools like FastBill, Slack, Zapier, and more
Give your accountant dedicated read-only access to your account data

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Your money is safe with us

Deposit protection: Your deposits are protected according to the applicable rules and regulations.
Regulated financial institution: Qonto operates under the joint supervision of BaFin and the ACPR (French Prudential Supervision and Resolution Authority).
Always up to standard: our security protocol is regularly audited by external specialists to make sure your account is safe

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Fully customizable cards

Physical or virtual, in-store or online… even make contactless payments quickly and securely with Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Create as many cards as you need for your team - while staying in control of spending. Set payment limits and track expenses in real-time from your app.
One, Plus, or X Card: spend up to €200,000 and enjoy greater peace of mind with premium insurance and exclusive perks

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Qonto: with you every step of the way

Company creation

Open a Qonto account for your startup online and deposit your share capital in just a few clicks. Have a question? We’re available 7 days a week via chat, phone or email.

Admin setup

Save time with paperless bookkeeping tools and by connecting your favorite tools to your Qonto account.

Ongoing growth

Set yourself up to scale. Organize cash flow with sub-accounts, set payment limits on cards and transfers, and manage your customer invoices using our integrated invoicing tool.

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