Why Freelancers in Germany Need a Business Bank Account

As a freelancer (“Freiberufler”) in Germany, you’re not legally required to open a separate business bank account. You could technically use your personal account.
Still, using a dedicated business account gives you massive advantages:

• Easier tax prep and expense tracking

• Professional image when invoicing clients

• Clean separation of personal and business transactions 

• Avoid trouble with banks (many prohibit business use on personal accounts)

✍️ A business account isn’t mandatory but is highly recommended. I would personally recommend multiple bank accounts (private and business) for different financial needs and as a security against hideous bank behavior.

Quick Comparison: Best Business Accounts for Freelancers in Germany

🏆 (Editor’s pick) Qonto – The Best All-Around Business Account for Freelancers

Qonto is a French-born fintech with a strong presence in Germany. It offers sleek, digital-first business banking with powerful features like sub-accounts, integrated invoicing, and expense tracking—ideal for freelancers who want structure and simplicity. 

With Norman, Qonto users also enjoy a 50% discount on freelance registration—a perfect duo for starting out.

🌊 Tide – Designed for Freelancers, Loved by UK Expats

Tide offers intuitive, app-based business banking and is especially popular among UK freelancers and digital nomads in Germany. It comes with automated invoicing, categorization, and the ability to add multiple users—perfect for growing teams or consultants. 

🌍 Revolut Business – Borderless Banking for Global Freelancers

Revolut Business is excellent for freelancers working across borders. With multi-currency accounts, international payments, and virtual cards, it’s built for flexibility. Whether you invoice clients in USD, GBP, or EUR, Revolut makes it easy—and often cheaper than traditional banks. A good fit for tech-savvy, remote-first freelancers.

📱 N26 – Mobile-First Banking with Smart Features

Berlin-based N26 offers freelancers a dedicated Business Smart account, combining minimalist UX with useful perks. You get 10 sub-accounts, cashback on purchases, and excellent mobile banking. N26 is ideal if you want a lightweight, professional account without unnecessary frills—or high fees.

💸 Vivid – The Free Business Account with Cashback

Vivid is a strong contender for freelancers on a budget. With 0 € monthly fees, up to 5% cashback, and sleek mobile tools, it’s made for those who want value without sacrificing functionality. It's also one of the few banks offering a free German IBAN business account with card perks and spend analytics.

🏛 Fyrst – Backed by Deutsche Bank, Built for Professionals

Fyrst combines the reliability of a traditional bank (Deutsche Bank) with the ease of a modern fintech. Its Base plan is free, while the Complete plan adds more bookings and support. You get real SEPA access, optional financing tools, and even cash deposits, making it great for freelancers who want classic banking infrastructure with digital convenience.

Benefits of a Business Account for Freelancers

Let’s break down the advantages:

1. 🔍 Clear Financial Separation
   No more guessing whether a transaction was personal or business-related. You won’t be able to tell the difference between a date and a business dinner when filing the tax declarations a year after the event.

2. 📊 Easier Tax Reports
   With clean business records, filing your Umsatzsteuer-Voranmeldung or EÜR becomes much simpler.

3. 💳 More Professional
   Clients take you more seriously when your invoice says “from YourName Business Account” instead of your private bank.

4. 💰 Better Budgeting
   Many accounts offer sub-accounts to set aside money for taxes, savings, or project-based income.

5. 🧾 Built-in Tools
   Some banks (like Qonto and Revolut) offer invoicing tools, receipt scanning, and tax estimates.

What to Look For in a Freelancer Business Account

When choosing a Geschäftskonto, check these key criteria:

• Monthly fees – Is there a free tier? What’s the total cost including transactions?

• Bookkeeping integration – Does it sync with your accounting & tax tool?

• Sub-accounts/Pockets – Can you organize tax savings and income streams?

• Card features – Do you need a debit or credit card? Apple/Google Pay?

• International features – Need multi-currency or SEPA/SWIFT payments?

• Financial benefits - Interest rate? Cashback? Lending?

How to Open a Business Account as a Freelancer

Opening a freelance business account is easier than you think:

1. Choose a provider (see comparison table above)

2. Prepare your ID (passport or ID card)

3. Provide your tax number

4. Verify your identity, usually over a video call

5. Start using your account right away

⚠️ Note: Some banks might require proof of your freelance activity or tax number. If you haven’t registered yet, do it for free with Norman.

Registering Your Freelance Business with Norman

Norman helps freelancers in Germany set up their tax status in minutes.

• Submit tax registration questionnaire (Fragebogen zur steuerlichen Erfassung) for free

• Get tips and guidance along the way

• 100% digital, sent directly to the Finanzamt

👉 Start your freelance registration now with Norman

FAQ: Freelancer Business Accounts in Germany

Do I need a business account as a freelancer?

No, it’s not legally required—but it’s strongly recommended for clarity, tax filing, and professionalism.

Can I use my personal bank account?

Technically yes, but many banks prohibit business use in their terms. Also, it creates headaches during tax season.

What’s the best free business account for freelancers?

Vivid and Tide both offer free accounts.

How do I separate taxes from my income?

Choose a bank with sub-accounts or use Norman’s tax estimation tools.

Conclusion

A business account is not just for corporations—it’s a smart move for every serious freelancer. You’ll benefit from easier tax filing, cleaner financial organization, and a more professional image. Whether you choose Qonto, Tide, or Revolut, the important thing is to separate your freelance finances from your private life.

👉 Need help getting started?
Register your freelance business with Norman in under 10 minutes – completely free.