Relay review: Cash-flow management with multiple accounts
Relay is the account for owners who run Profit First or otherwise want their money split into buckets. Up to 20 checking accounts, 50 debit cards and automatic percentage-based transfers come free. Cash deposits are possible through Allpoint ATMs, which Mercury cannot offer.
Relay is best for cash-flow management with multiple accounts. No monthly fee, 1% to 3% on savings balances, account open in days.
Relay business checking details
| Monthly fee | $0 |
|---|---|
| Yield | 1% to 3% on savings balances |
| Account opening | Account open in days |
| Cash deposits | Yes |
Pros
- Up to 20 free checking accounts
- Automatic allocation rules
- Cash deposits at Allpoint+ ATMs
- Free standard plan
Cons
- Outgoing wires cost on the free plan
- Paid plan needed for same-day ACH and accounting sync
- Smaller FDIC sweep than Mercury
Figures verified 2026-11-01. Providers change terms; confirm before applying.
Where Relay stands out
Budgeting built into the bank
Route 15% of every deposit to taxes and 5% to profit automatically. No spreadsheet required.
Where Relay falls short
Wire fees
Businesses that wire often will pay more than at Mercury unless they upgrade.
Who qualifies
Requirements
- US business with EIN (sole proprietors accepted)
- Formation documents for entities
Consider Relay if you
- You want envelopes, not one big balance
- You occasionally deposit cash
- You run a small team with several cards
Alternatives to Relay
Mercury
Business checking · best for startups and online businesses
Monthly fee $0 · Yield Up to about 4% through Treasury (eligibility applies)
Chase Business Complete Banking
Business checking · best for branch access and card acceptance
Monthly fee $15 · Yield None
Relay appears in: Best Business Checking Accounts of November 2026.
Methodology
Relay was scored on cost of capital, accessibility, speed, repayment flexibility, transparency and borrower outcomes, the same six factors applied to every business banking product on this site. Read how we rate. We have no commercial relationship with Relay.