Relay vs. Alliance Bank of Arizona: Which banking solution is better for small businesses?

By Haley Davidson

Founder & Content Strategist, Gaia Content

Are you looking for a business banking solution in Arizona? In this article, we’ll compare Relay to the Alliance Bank of Arizona. Relay is a fully online banking platform, while the Alliance Bank of Arizona is a traditional Arizona-based bank. 🏦

Traditional banks like the Alliance Bank of Arizona blend in-person services with online products. Modern platforms like Relay provide a fully digitized banking experience made for businesses. Let’s explore what makes each institution unique.

In this article:

What is Relay? 

Relay is a modern online banking and money management platform that helps small businesses oversee their cash flow. 💚 Relay users can create up to 20 free checking accounts and handle multiple business transactions from one central place.

The digital-first approach taken on by Relay creates a seamless banking experience while avoiding the most common obstacles of traditional banking. With Relay, small businesses also have the option to grow their money through savings accounts that earn between 1-3% APY1.

What is the Alliance Bank of Arizona? 

The Alliance Bank of Arizona is a part of the Western Alliance Bank Corporation. It offers several different business checking and savings account types for various businesses. This bank can also offer industry-specific banking solutions. For those who need capital, the Alliance Bank of Arizona offers business loans and lines of credit. 💰

Relay vs. Alliance Bank of Arizona Comparison Chart

Features/Services

Alliance Bank of Arizona

Relay

Open Account Online

Online Banking

✅ Web, Apple iOs and Android Mobile Apps

✅Web, Apple iOs and Android Mobile Apps 

Monthly Account Fees

$16

$0

Minimum Opening Deposit

$100

None

Minimum Balance Requirement

$2,500

None

Overdraft Fees

Depends on account

$0

Money Movement

Wire Transfer: Depends on account

ACH Payments: Depends on account

Wire Transfer: $5 domestic, $10 international (Free with Relay Pro)

ACH Payments: Free 

ATM Access

61,000+

55,000+

Branch Locations

10 Arizona locations

Online-only

Interest-bearing accounts

✅Varies by account

✅1-3% APY on savings depending on the balance

Business Credit Cards

⛔️

Online Reviews

3.0 Star Rating on Yelp

4.6 Star Rating on Trustpilot

Online and Mobile Banking

Relay Mobile and Online Banking

Relay is accessed through either the mobile app or the web-based option. Both platforms include easily navigable menus that allow for efficient and organized work. Managing money with Relay unlocks additional features such as receipt capture via mobile camera and virtual debit cards. 💳

The Alliance Bank of Arizona and Online Banking

The mobile app and web-based options for the Alliance Bank of Arizona have similar features. Both allow users to access account information and eStatements. Additionally, there is an Enhanced Service available for online banking. This Enhanced Service allows for wire transfers and ACH payments, among other features.

Monthly Fees and Other Charges

Relay Fees

Relay maintains an affordable and transparent pricing schedule for its services. Business account owners won’t encounter monthly fees or overdraft fees with Relay. They also won’t encounter minimum balances, which frees up funds to help businesses grow. 💸

The Alliance Bank of Arizona Fees

The Alliance Bank of Arizona does charge a few fees for its various services. The monthly fee of $16 per account can be waived with a minimum balance of $2,500. The amount of overdraft fees depends on the account type. 

Accounts Payable

Relay Accounts Payable

As a business owner, you understand how important it is to pay bills precisely and on time. Relay’s accounts payable features make this an easier and faster process. Its all-inclusive dashboard for managing bill payments also offers vendor contract savings for future payments. There are also integrations available with Quickbooks Online and Xero. 💻

Relay’s paid tier is called Relay Pro. It allows for additional features including same-day ACH and free outgoing wires. You can also set up multi-step approval rules for people on your team, allowing for easier processing.

The Alliance Bank of Arizona Accounts Payable

The Alliance Bank of Arizona offers free Online Bill Pay and ePayables to its customers. Optionally, you can automate your accounts payable process with the Alliance Bank of Arizona. ACH payments and wire transfers also allow for easier and faster transactions. 📲

Verdict: Which banking partner is right for your business?

As a business owner, choosing the right banking partner is crucial to your business’s success and growth. Both Relay and the Alliance Bank of Arizona offer novel features tailored to support your business’s needs. 💵

Relay provides a digital-first approach with seamless integrations and no monthly feels. The Alliance Bank of Arizona has several different checking account options and provides local community support.

Finding the right fit for your business can be achieved by first considering your goals and the type of support you need. Then, choose the banking platform that best aligns with your business plan. Ready to sign up for Relay? You can get started entirely online here! 🔗