Relay vs. CrossFirst Bank: Which is better for business banking in Arizona?

By Haley Davidson

Founder & Content Strategist, Gaia Content

Are you a business owner looking for a bank in Arizona? In this guide, we’ll compare Relay to CrossFirst Bank. Relay is an online banking platform. CrossFirst Bank is a traditional bank with two Arizona branches. 🏦

A traditional bank like CrossFirst Bank offers a blend of in-person and online services. Modern banking platforms like Relay provide a fully digital banking experience tailored for businesses. Let’s dive deeper into what each institution brings to the table.

In this article:

What is Relay? 

Relay offers a modern online banking solution. 💚 Its money management features allow small businesses to better oversee their cash flow. Relay allows its users to create up to 20 free checking accounts and handle multiple payments from one centralized place.

Relay’s digital-first approach creates a seamless banking experience while avoiding the most common barriers of traditional banking. Small businesses also have the option to grow their money with Relay through savings accounts that earn between 1-3 % APY1.

What is CrossFirst Bank? 

CrossFirst Bank is a traditional bank that has two locations in Arizona. They have over 15 years of banking experience across multiple states. This bank offers four different business checking accounts. 💰

CrossFirst Bank also offers other features and services in addition to its business checking accounts. These services include lending services, such as lines of credit and Small Business Association (SBA) loans. The bank also offers savings accounts and treasury management services.

Relay vs. CrossFirst Bank Comparison Chart

Features/Services

CrossFirst Bank

Relay

Open Account Online

⛔️

Online Banking

✅ Web, Apple iOS and Android Mobile Apps

✅Web, Apple iOS and Android Mobile Apps 

Monthly Account Fees

$10-$20

$0

Minimum Opening Deposit

$1,000

None

Minimum Balance Requirement

$500-$10,000

None

Overdraft Fees

$0

$0

Money Movement

Wire Transfer: $0* ACH Payments: $0*

*Both count as monthly items

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

ATM Access

Free ATM access anywhere in the US

55,000+

Branch Locations

2 Arizona branch locations 

Online-only

Interest-bearing accounts

✅Varies by account

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

Business Credit Cards

⛔️

Online Reviews

4.9/5 on Google Reviews

4.6 Star Rating on Trustpilot

Online and Mobile Banking

Relay Mobile and Online Banking

Relay provides access to user accounts via their mobile app or web-based access. Both platforms include easily navigable menus that allow for efficient and organized work. 

Money management with Relay is also a breeze and allows you to access additional features. These features include receipt capture via mobile camera and virtual debit cards. 💳

CrossFirst Bank and Online Banking

CrossFirst Bank provides its customers with digital banking via web or mobile app. These services allow for multiple features such as ACH payment origination and mobile check deposit. From their online platform, you can export account information to Quicken or Quickbooks or set up customized security alerts.

Monthly Fees and Other Charges

Relay Fees

Relay is a fee-free service that maintains affordable and transparent pricing. Business account owners with Relay won’t encounter monthly fees. You’ll also avoid overdraft fees and minimum balances. This will free up your funds to allow your business to grow. 💸

CrossFirst Bank Fees

CrossFirst Bank has monthly fees waived by holding minimum balances. These fees range from $10 to $20 with minimum balances that range from $500 to $10,000. The fees that you can incur depend on which type of business checking account you open.

Accounts Payable

Relay Accounts Payable

Business owners understand the importance of paying bills on time and with precision. Relay’s accounts payable features make this process easier and faster. The all-inclusive Relay dashboard helps manage bill payments and offers vendor contract savings for future payments. There are also integrations with Quickbooks Online and Xero. 💻

Relay’s paid tier is Relay Pro and offers additional features. These features include same-day ACH payments and free outgoing wires. For employees and people on your team, you can also set up multi-step approval rules for easier processing. 

CrossFirst Bank Accounts Payable

CrossFirst Bank provides access to bill pay with its online banking services. You can unlock more features with the Treasury Management package solutions. These features include ACH origination and same-day ACH. 📲

Verdict: Which banking partner is right for your business?

It is crucial to choose the right banking partner for the success and growth of your business. Both Relay and CrossFirst Bank offer unique features that can support your business’s needs. 💵

Relay provides a digital-first approach with seamless integrations and no monthly fees. CrossFirst Bank offers several business checking options with low fees and in-person branch support. To find the right fit for your business, you’ll want to consider your goals and the type of support you need. Choose the banking platform that best aligns with your business plan. If you’re ready to sign up for Relay, you can get started entirely online here! 🔗