What is it?
What is Found Bank?
In today's fast-paced business world, freelancers, gig workers, and self-employed individuals require reliable and efficient banking services tailored to their unique needs. Found business banking is one such platform designed specifically for these individuals.
This comprehensive review and comparison will cover Found's services, monthly fees, pros and cons, and how it measures against its competitors.
Features
Found Bank Features
Found Checking Account
The Found checking account is designed for freelancers, gig workers, and self-employed individuals. With this account, users can easily manage their business finances, make payments, and transfer funds.
Moreover, there are no account fees or minimum balance requirements, making it an attractive option for those just starting or managing a smaller business.
Built-in Bookkeeping and Tax Tools
One of the standout features of Found Bank is its built-in bookkeeping and tax tools. Users can automatically categorize their expenses, separate personal and business transactions, and generate financial reports.
Found also offers tax calculation tools that help estimate quarterly tax payments, making it easier to stay on top of tax deadlines and avoid penalties.
Expense Tracking and Business Tools Integrations
Staying organized is essential for freelancers and business owners, and Found Bank's expense-tracking capabilities make it simpler than ever.
With custom categories and tags, users can track expenses in real time and generate detailed reports for a clear overview of their financial situation.
Found Bank also integrates with popular freelance apps and software, such as QuickBooks, to streamline your accounting process further.
Online and Mobile Banking
In today's digital age, having easy access to your financial information is vital. Found Bank offers a robust online and mobile banking platform that allows users to manage their accounts, make transactions, view account activity, and more, all from the convenience of their devices. The mobile app is available for iOS and Android devices, ensuring widespread compatibility.
Pros & Cons
Pros & Cons of Found Bank
Who should use it?
Who is Found Bank for?
When Found is a Good Fit
Found Bank is an excellent fit for those who require a user-friendly, feature-rich business banking platform tailored to the unique needs of freelancers and self-employed individuals.
The absence of account fees, comprehensive expense tracking, and tax management tools make Found Bank an excellent choice for those who need a specialized banking solution to manage their business finances.
When Found is Not a Good Fit
Despite its numerous benefits, Found Bank may not be ideal for every business. Businesses relying heavily on cash or check transactions may find Found Bank's limitations in cash deposit and check-writing features inconvenient.
In such cases, more traditional business banking options or competitor platforms that support cash deposits and check-writing may be better suited to their needs.
Multi-member LLCs, joint accounts, or partnerships are not currently available with Found.
Open an account
How to open an account with Found Bank
Steps to Open an Account
Opening a Found business checking account is a straightforward process. To get started, visit the Found Bank website and click on the “Get Started” button. You will be prompted to enter your email address and create a password.
After completing the initial registration process, you'll be guided through a series of steps to provide your personal and business information, including your Social Security number, business name, and contact details.
Required Documentation and Eligibility
To open a Found business checking account, you'll need to provide the following documents:
- Proof of identity (e.g., driver's license, passport)
- Social Security number
- Business name and contact information
- Business EIN (if applicable)
Applicants must be at least 18 years old and have a valid Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to be eligible for a Found business checking account. Additionally, Found Bank is currently available only for U.S. residents.
Found+
What is Found+?
Found+ Premium Account Option
Found Plus is an optional paid subscription service that offers advanced tax planning tools and features for business owners looking to streamline further and customize their financial management during tax season. Found Plus is available in monthly and annual plans, costing $14.99/month or $95.88/year.
Found Plus Benefits
Subscribing to Found Plus gives you access to an extensive list of benefits and features:
| Feature | Description | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Unlimited category rules | Automate the categorization of transactions from specific vendors | Found Plus only |
| Custom bookkeeping categories | Create personalized categories for income and expense tracking | Found Plus only |
| Transaction tags | Organize income and expenses with custom tags (up to three for free users) | Unlimited for Found Plus |
| Photo receipt capture | Capture receipts using your phone camera and have key details auto-filled | Found Plus only |
| Export bookkeeping details | Download comprehensive bookkeeping data, including categorization, notes, and receipt info | Found Plus only |
| Pay taxes through Found | Pay quarterly federal taxes directly through the app (first payment free for all users) | Found Plus only (after first payment) |
| Bonus on account balance | Earn 1.5% APY on the total balance maintained in your account each month, up to $20,000 | Found Plus only |
| Priority phone support | Direct access to Found’s Customer Experience team with prioritized support | Found Plus only |
These features are in addition to the standard Found account offerings, such as a business debit card, expense and income tracking, tax auto-save, personalized invoices, and no hidden fees.
Found Plus provides business owners with a comprehensive suite of tools for managing their finances, making it an ideal solution for those seeking an all-in-one business banking solution.
Fees
Found Business Banking Pricing and Fees
Overview of Fees and Access
Found Bank offers a business checking account with no monthly account fees or minimum balance requirements, making it an attractive option for freelancers and small business owners.
Below is a summary of the main fees and costs associated with using Found Bank:
| Feature | Cost |
|---|---|
| Monthly account fees | None |
| Minimum balance | None |
| Transfer funds | No charges |
| Create invoices | No charges |
| Send payments | No charges |
| Overdraft fees | None |
Optional Paid Services
Found Bank provides two optional paid services for customers:
| Service | Cost | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Instant withdrawals | 1.75% fee per transaction | Transfer money from Found account to an external debit card instantly |
| Found Plus | $14.99/month or $95.88/year | Access to advanced business tools |
Additional Fees from Third Parties
Some transactions may result in fees being charged by third parties:
| Transaction Type | Fee | Charged By |
|---|---|---|
| ATM withdrawals | Varies | ATM owner |
| International transactions | Fee during currency conversion | Card network |
| Invoice payments | 2.9% fee on total payment + $0.30 for processing | Stripe |
Security & Customer Service
Found Business Banking Safety and Customer Service
Account Security
Found Bank prioritizes the security of its customers' funds and personal information. Some of the measures they take include:
- FDIC insurance: Found accounts are insured up to $250,000 through Piermont Bank, providing peace of mind for customers.
- Mastercard® Zero Liability Protection: This ensures that customers are not held responsible for unauthorized transactions on their debit cards.
Customer Service
Found offers various customer support channels to assist customers with their banking needs:
- Found Plus users: Receive priority phone support for immediate assistance during business hours (weekdays, 8 am to 5 pm PT).
- General support: All customers can access support at found.com/help or in the Support section of their Found app.
- Phone support: Customers can reach the Found team via the phone number on the back of their debit card.
Deposit and Withdrawal Options
Found Bank Deposit and Withdrawal Options
Found Bank provides multiple methods for depositing and withdrawing funds, making it convenient for customers to manage their business finances.
Deposit Options
- Bank transfers: Customers can transfer funds from an external bank account to their Found account using ACH.
- Mobile check deposit: Users can deposit checks via the Found mobile app by simply taking a picture of the check.
- Direct deposit: Found customers can receive their earnings via direct deposit, possibly receiving payments up to 2 days early.
Withdrawal Options
- Bank transfers: Withdraw funds to an external bank account using ACH transfers.
- ATM withdrawals: Access cash from ATMs without fees from Found Bank, although some ATMs may charge their own fees.
- Instant withdrawals: For a 1.75% fee, customers can transfer money instantly from their Found account to an external debit card.
Note: Found Bank currently does not support check or cash deposits via ATMs.
Alternatives
Alternatives to Found Business Banking
No monthly fees or minimum opening deposit
Unlimited fee-free transactions
No physical locations
Cash deposits have a $4.95 per-time charge
Earn 1% cashback with its debit card
Unlimited fee-free transactions
No cash deposits or check ordering
$100 minimum opening deposit
No account minimums
Major accounting& payroll integrations
Does not offer APY on the business account
No 24/7 live support
While Found Bank offers a comprehensive solution for freelancers and small businesses, alternative options are available, catering to different needs and preferences.
Two notable alternatives online banks are BlueVine and Live Oak Bank.
BlueVine
BlueVine is ideal for established LLCs with an EIN and registered with the state. It offers robust features that cater to the needs of growing businesses:
- No monthly fees, minimum balance, or transaction fees
- Two free checkbooks
- Integrations with popular accounting software
- Same-day wire transfers for a fee
- Business lines of credit
Fact: BlueVine is focused on providing business banking solutions, including business lines of credit.
Live Oak Bank
Live Oak Bank is a solid choice for businesses looking to earn interest, as it provides both a business checking and savings account. Features include:
- No monthly maintenance fees
- High-yield business savings account with a competitive interest rate
- Free ACH transfers
- Mobile check deposit
- Wire transfers for a fee
Tip: By maintaining a business checking, and savings account with Live Oak Bank, businesses can benefit from seamless funds transfers and maximize their earnings through interest.
When selecting a business banking solution, it's essential to consider factors such as fees, interest rates, features, and specific business requirements.
While Found Bank caters to freelancers and small businesses, BlueVine is better suited for established LLCs, and Live Oak Bank is an excellent choice for those aiming to earn interest.
Bottom Line
Is Found Business Bank for you?
Found Bank offers a comprehensive and user-friendly business banking solution for freelancers and small businesses. With features like expense tracking, customizable invoices, and tax tools, it simplifies managing finances and streamlines operations.
The optional Found Plus subscription adds advanced tools, priority support, and an APY bonus on account balances. Choosing the right business banking solution is essential to meet your needs and requirements.
Ultimately, the decision will depend on fees, features, and growth potential. Found Bank has been designed with freelancers and small businesses in mind, making it a popular choice for entrepreneurs seeking a hassle-free and feature-rich business banking experience.
FAQ
Found Bank FAQ
Who owns Found Bank?
Found Bank is an independent financial technology company. A traditional bank does not own it but collaborates with Piermont Bank, a Member FDIC bank. This partnership ensures that Found Bank customers have their deposits insured by the FDIC up to $250,000.
What bank does Found use?
Found Bank uses Piermont Bank as its partner bank. Piermont Bank is an FDIC-insured institution, which means your funds are insured up to $250,000, providing you with peace of mind and security for your finances.
Can I use Found Bank for my personal banking needs?
Found Bank is specifically designed for freelancers and small business owners. It is not intended for personal banking use, as its features and tools are tailored to meet the needs of self-employed individuals and businesses.
Is Found Bank compatible with popular accounting software?
Yes. Found Bank can be easily connected to popular accounting software like QuickBooks and Stripe. This integration helps freelancers and small businesses manage their finances more efficiently and accurately.
Does Found Bank offer customer support?
Yes. Found Bank provides dedicated customer support through various channels. You can reach the support team through the help section on their website, in the Support section of the Found app, or via the phone number on the back of your debit card. Found Plus subscribers enjoy the added benefit of priority phone support during business hours (weekdays, 8 am to 5 pm PT).
Found is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services are provided by Piermont Bank, Member FDIC. The Found Mastercard®️ debit card is issued by Piermont Bank pursuant to a license from Mastercard Inc.
