Banking Services for Accountants & Firms
Running an accounting practice requires more than balancing ledgers and filing returns; it demands financial agility, efficient cash flow management, and a banking partner for accounting firms that understands the unique pressures of your business. At Sunwest Bank, we provide specialized services and customized solutions for CPAs and accounting firms, helping you manage cash flow, accept payments, and support your long-term financial goals.
With years of experience serving professional service businesses, our bank delivers solutions that save time, protect funds, and help businesses plan effectively.
Accounting Firm Banking Solutions
Sunwest Bank provides accounting firms and CPAs with specialized banking solutions built to address the challenges of running a modern practice. From managing unpredictable cash flow during tax season to covering expenses for technology upgrades or staffing needs, our services are designed to reduce administrative strain and keep your operations running smoothly. Whether you need more efficient ways to manage client funds, flexible financing options, or tools to support long-term financial planning, we tailor solutions to your firm’s unique needs so you can focus on serving your clients.
Deposit Accounts
Secure, structured deposit accounts for everyday and reserve needs
Purpose: Manage operating expenses, outgoing payments, and partner reserves with accounts designed specifically for CPA firms.
Use Cases: Business checking, partner capital accounts, tax escrow, and client trust funds.
Features:
- Multiple account types, including business checking and money market accounts
- Online banking with real-time access and firm-level controls
- FDIC-insured balances under the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (Member FDIC)
- Account structures tailored for firms with multiple partners or offices
Ideal for firms seeking a trusted banking foundation with clear financial transparency and secure account management.
Treasury & Cash Management Services
Simplify receivables, streamline outgoing payments, and manage financial risks.
Purpose: Improve cash flow, reduce manual processes, and protect client funds.
Use Cases: Client payments, billing, recurring fees, payroll services, and fraud prevention.
Features:
- Automated ACH collection for client payments and retainers
- Remote deposit capture and merchant services to help you accept payments faster
- Positive pay and fraud detection tools
- Real-time visibility into cash positions and transactions
Built for firms that want to save time, reduce risk, and keep operations running smoothly through every season.
Savings & Money Market Accounts
Support long-term growth and financial planning
Purpose: Build reserves for expansion, technology upgrades, or office investments.
Use Cases: Capital improvement funds, contingency planning, partner distributions.
Features:
- Automated ACH collection for client payments and retainers
- Remote deposit capture and merchant services to help you accept payments faster
- Positive pay and fraud detection tools
- Real-time visibility into cash positions and transactions
Designed for practices that want to strengthen their financial foundation and plan responsibly for the future.
Loans & Financing Services
Access flexible financing for firm growth and client support
Purpose: Finance office expansion, acquisitions, or bridge seasonal cash flow.
Use Cases: Office renovations, technology upgrades, equipment, client acquisition financing, working capital, and partner buy-ins.
Features:
- Customized solutions for CPA firms and accounting professionals
- Competitive rates and streamlined credit approval process
- Guidance on refinancing existing debt or Small Business Administration (SBA) loan options
- Flexible repayment structures to match firm revenue cycles
Ideal for accounting firms needing the right financing to grow, expand, or manage seasonal demands without disrupting client service.
Our Expertise in the Accounting Sector
Sunwest Bank understands the unique operational and financial challenges that accounting firms face. From navigating seasonal cash flow cycles to securing expert support for expansion, our team provides comprehensive services tailored to your practice. We work with:
- Certified Public Accounting (CPA firms)
- Independent Accountants and Bookkeepers
- Regional and Multi-Office Practices
- Specialty Tax and Advisory Firms
- Audit and Consulting Firms
- Startup and Emerging Practices
Our team offers deep industry knowledge and practical financial expertise to support your business in managing operations efficiently, reaching its financial objectives, and maintaining a strong position for sustainable growth.
Why Sunwest Bank?
Sunwest Bank is more than a service provider; we’re a strategic partner to your firm. As a privately held, Member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender, we combine fast decision-making with decades of experience supporting professional service industries.
Whether you’re opening a business checking account, restructuring your services to better manage cash flow, or seeking the right financing through the Small Business Administration or other channels, our team provides responsive expert support and guidance.
At Sunwest, you’re not just another client, you’re a partner. We’re invested in helping your accounting firm strengthen operations, support your clients, and achieve lasting success.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of bank accounts should an accounting firm open?
Most accounting firms benefit from a combination of operating accounts for firm expenses, business checking accounts for day-to-day transactions, and dedicated reserve accounts to manage future obligations. Some CPA firms also require client trust accounts to keep client funds separate and compliant.
How can accounting firms use treasury services to manage client payments?
Treasury services streamline payment collection and disbursement by automating ACH transfers, reconciling invoices, and safeguarding against fraud. For firms that handle large volumes of client payments, these services save time and improve accuracy.
What Banking Challenges Do Accounting Firms Typically Face?
Accounting firms often face seasonal cash flow challenges, delayed client payments, and the need to separate operating funds from client accounts. Without the right banking structure, these issues can disrupt operations and compliance.
Why is online banking important for accounting professionals?
Online banking provides real-time visibility into cash positions across multiple accounts, which is critical for managing client funds and firm operations. It also enables secure access for partners or authorized staff, reducing reliance on manual processes.
How do accounting firms ensure banking compliance with client funds?
CPA firms should use dedicated trust or escrow accounts when holding client money, separate from firm operating accounts. Sunwest Bank supports this with account structures tailored to accounting practices, helping firms maintain compliance and transparency.