Relay vs. Republic Bank of Arizona: Which is better for small businesses?

By Haley Davidson

Founder & Content Strategist, Gaia Content

Are you a small business owner looking for a business bank in Arizona? Here, we’ll compare Relay to the Republic Bank of Arizona. Relay is an online banking platform while the Republic Bank of Arizona is a traditional bank. 🏦

Traditional banks like the Republic Bank of Arizona offer a balance between in-person and online services. Modern platforms like Relay provide a fully digitized banking experience tailored for businesses like yours. Let’s view more on what makes each institution unique.

In this article:

What is Relay? 

Relay is a modern online banking and money management solution that helps small businesses oversee their cash flow. 💚 Relay users can create up to 20 free checking accounts and handle many payments from one central place. Relay’s digital-first banking approach creates a seamless experience while avoiding the most common barriers of traditional banking. Small businesses also have the option to grow their money through Relay savings accounts that earn between 1-3% APY1.

What is the Republic Bank of Arizona? 

The Republic Bank of Arizona is a traditional bank that handles both personal and business accounts. For business owners, this bank has three different business checking account options. 💰

This traditional bank also offers lending services such as credit cards and Small Business Association (SBA) loans. Additionally, you can open savings accounts with the Republic Bank of Arizona.

Relay vs. Republic Bank of Arizona Comparison Chart

Features/Services

Republic 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

$12-$15

$0

Minimum Opening Deposit

$100

None

Minimum Balance Requirement

$1,000-$2,500

None

Overdraft Fees

$0

$0

Money Movement

Wire Transfer: $25-$35

ACH Payments: Varies by account

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

ACH Payments: Free 

ATM Access

3

55,000+

Branch Locations

3 Arizona branches

Online-only

Interest-bearing accounts

✅Varies by account

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

Business Credit Cards

⛔️

Online Reviews

4.2 Star Rating on Yelp

4.6 Star Rating on Trustpilot

Online and Mobile Banking

Relay Mobile and Online Banking

Users access Relay through either the web-based option or the mobile app. Both digital platforms are easy to navigate and allow for efficient and organized work. Managing money with Relay allows access to additional features such as receipt capture via mobile camera and virtual debit cards. 💳

Republic Bank of Arizona and Online Banking

Republic Bank of Arizona customers can access their accounts online and through a mobile app. These online services allow customers to deposit checks via their mobile phone. They can also view transaction history and make transfers between accounts.

Monthly Fees and Other Charges

Relay Fees

Relay has an affordable and transparent pricing structure for its services. Relay business account owners won’t encounter monthly fees or overdraft fees. There also aren’t any minimum balances, which frees up your business’s funds. 💸

Republic Bank of Arizona Fees

The Republic Bank of Arizona does have monthly fees waived with minimum balances held in business checking accounts. You cannot waive this fee with the Premier Business Checking account. There are also fees on transactions over the monthly limit allowed by your account.

Accounts Payable

Relay Accounts Payable

As a business owner, you understand the importance of paying bills on time and with precision. Relay’s accounts payable features make this process easier and faster. Relay has an all-inclusive dashboard for managing bill payments. They also offer vendor contract savings and integrations with Quickbooks Online and Xero. 💻

Relay’s paid tier, Relay Pro, gives access to additional features including same-day ACH and free outgoing wires. You can also set up multi-step approval rules for people on your team.

Republic Bank of Arizona Accounts Payable

The Republic Bank of Arizona allows you to transfer funds online 24/7. It also offers ACH origination and outgoing domestic and international wires. The costs of these services depend on the type of business checking account you open. 📲

Verdict: Which banking partner is right for your business?

Choosing the right business banking partner for your business is crucial for its success and growth. Both Relay and the Republic Bank of Arizona offer unique features tailored to support your business’s needs. 💵

Relay provides a digital-first approach with seamless integrations and no monthly fees. The Republic Bank of Arizona offers several decent business checking account options and local community support.

To find the right banking solution for your business, 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 do so entirely online here! 🔗