Novo Vs TD Bank — Business Banking Showdown

James Greene
15 min readOct 18, 2023

I’ve recently been able to compare Novo and TD Bank for my small business banking needs.

I’ll share my experience and insights on the two options in this article.

From initial problems with TD Bank to a seamless switch to Novo, I’ve found a banking solution that works for me as a small business owner.

Join me as I compare Novo and TD Bank accounts and evaluate their benefits and drawbacks.

Choosing the Right Small Business Bank

As a small business owner, I’ve learned that picking the right bank for my business involves carefully analyzing three main components.

First up, the safety of your investment should take the top spot on your priority list. You want to be assured that your hard-earned money is in safe hands. Therefore, opt for a bank prioritizing strong security measures like fraud detection systems and data encryption.

Next, I’d recommend paying attention to the costs of maintaining a small business checking account. You’ll find that these rates can vary quite a lot from one bank to the next. So, don’t rush this step. Take your time comparing the fees and settling for a bank that offers reasonable rates.

Finally, don’t overlook the importance of convenience. In our fast-paced world, you need a bank that keeps up and makes your life easier. A robust online banking system and accessible mobile banking services can be a game-changer.

Keep these factors in mind as you search for the right bank for your small business. With this knowledge, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision.

Let’s move forward and discuss more about Novo and its business banking services.

About Novo And Their Business Banking

Novo, a leading name in digital banking, is a go-to option for small businesses. The bank’s easy-to-use interface is a significant advantage, simplifying financial management for business owners. Furthermore, Novo’s ability to integrate with various business tools offers a smooth, interconnected experience, which is a boon for busy entrepreneurs.

However, like all things, Novo comes with its share of drawbacks. The absence of physical branches might be a letdown for those who prefer traditional, face-to-face banking services. On top of that, customer service can be a bit sluggish, which might be a deal-breaker if you’re dealing with time-sensitive issues.

All in all, Novo offers a fresh and handy solution for small business banking. Still, it’s worth considering the benefits and drawbacks before deciding.

Pros

Pros of Novo’s business banking services:

  1. I’m always impressed with how easy Novo’s platform is to use — it’s clear and intuitive.
  2. Novo has a range of features that meet the needs of small businesses, providing a well-rounded service.
  3. The business checking account from Novo lets you access banking services without any hidden fees or minimum balance needs, making it simple and transparent.
  4. The way Novo works with other financial tools, like accounting software and payment methods, can simplify your business finance management.
  5. This compatibility with other tools also helps streamline your business operations, freeing up valuable time.
  6. I appreciate how seriously Novo takes security. They use strong encryption methods to keep your financial information safe.
  7. I trust Novo with my banking needs because they show a strong commitment to protecting their customers.
  8. If you’re a business owner looking for a trustworthy banking partner, Novo’s transparent platform, wide range of features, and strong security measures make them an excellent option.

Cons

Despite Novo’s business banking services’ appealing features and easy-to-use platform, a few downsides exist.

  • There’s an absence of physical branches. Online services from Novo offer convenience, but some businesses might still value in-person interactions with bank representatives.
  • Novo’s business bank account doesn’t support cash deposits. This could be a downside for businesses handling a significant amount of cash transactions.

About TD Bank’s Business Banking

TD Bank, one of the leading banks in North America, has much to offer in business banking. They have diverse solutions for small businesses, from checking and savings accounts to loans and merchant services. They’ve designed these solutions specifically to cater to the needs of businesses, helping them manage and grow their financial resources.

The positives are numerous. Yet, no bank is without its potential downsides. Some might find TD Bank’s fees a bit steeper than online-only banks. Also, their branch availability mightn’t cover all areas, which could inconvenience businesses that prefer in-person banking services.

The decision on whether TD Bank is the right choice for your business banking needs ultimately depends on your business’s individual needs and preferences. One must balance the benefits of their diverse products and the convenience of their services against the potential drawbacks of their fees and branch availability.

TD Bank, established in 1852, has a long history of serving the financial needs of people and businesses. They’re well-known for their customer-focused approach and commitment to providing diverse products and services. With its extensive experience and focus on customer satisfaction, TD Bank has positioned itself as a preferred choice for many businesses.

Pros

Pros of TD Bank’s business banking:

  • TD Bank provides a comprehensive online banking platform that benefits small business owners.
  • It offers a well-designed interface where I can quickly check account balances, conduct transactions, and view financial statements.
  • Accessing and managing my business accounts from my office or home is a breeze with this feature.
  • TD Bank’s business banking is reliable, offering consistent performance that businesses can depend on.

Now, let’s discuss the drawbacks…

Cons

Cons of TD Bank’s Business Banking:

  • The business checking account fees can be a burden, particularly for smaller businesses. With various account options, many carry a monthly maintenance fee which can accumulate quickly.
  • Transaction fees can become excessive, especially if your company has many transactions.
  • TD Bank’s online banking system is less flexible than I’d prefer. It appears outdated compared to some of the more modern platforms on the market.
  • The customer service experience leaves room for improvement. It was a challenge to connect with a representative promptly when I had inquiries or issues.

3 Problems I Had With TD Bank From The Get Go

Starting my journey with TD Bank, I was met with a trio of stumbling blocks that made my banking experience far from smooth.

One of the first issues I had was with their business debit card. Promised as a tool to make my business transactions more straightforward, it proved to be anything but. Getting the card activated was a convoluted mess, requiring me to make multiple calls and go through extensive verification steps.

As if that wasn’t enough, the card was riddled with technical hitches that often left me high and dry during critical transactions. This proved to be a major hindrance, interrupting the smooth sailing of my business operations.

But the real kicker was the poor customer service I had to deal with while trying to resolve these issues. Time and again, I found myself on the phone with representatives who seemed out of their depth and unable to provide effective solutions. This lack of professional assistance added to my frustration and disappointment from the debit card issues.

In a nutshell, my experience with TD Bank’s business debit card was a letdown. It was far from the reliable and efficient service I expected, leaving a bitter taste in my mouth. As a business owner, I need a bank partner I can count on, and TD Bank fell short in this regard.

Happy With Novo, As A Small Business Owner

Swapping my less-than-satisfactory experience with TD Bank for Novo has been a breath of fresh air for me as a small business owner. Novo isn’t just meeting my expectations; it’s outdoing them in all areas — customer service, simplicity, and practicality.

A small business owner like me needs a banking partner who meets the specific business demands and hurdles. Novo has stepped into that role effortlessly.

Their intuitive mobile app lets me handle my business finances whenever and wherever, and their proficient customer support team is always ready to help with any issues or inquiries I might have. With Novo, I trust in the safety and security of my business accounts, an absolute must in our current tech-reliant age.

Novo has been a real game-changer for my business banking needs, and I couldn’t be happier.

What It Took To Switch From TD Bank to Novo. A Simple Change

Feeling the constraints of TD Bank, I chose to make an uncomplicated alteration and transition to Novo for my entrepreneurial financial needs. As a small enterprise owner, I aimed to find a banking option that offered convenience, adaptability, and security. Novo’s online business checking account appeared to be the ideal match.

The transition was notably smooth and devoid of any complications. I found myself setting up an account online in minutes, with no requirement for paperwork or face-to-face appointments. Novo’s easy-to-use interface and intuitive features streamlined my business financial management. I was equally impressed with the added security elements, such as two-factor verification and instant alerts, which offered a sense of security.

The shift from TD Bank to Novo was an uncomplicated alteration that significantly upgraded my business banking experience.

Now, let’s head straight into comparing Novo and TD Bank and examine the details of their business bank accounts.

Novo Vs TD Bank, How The Business Bank Accounts Stack Up

As I scrutinize the features of Novo and TD Bank business bank accounts, I realize certain essential aspects demand our attention.

What comes to the forefront are the simplicity of account setup, the cost of maintaining the account, the necessary balance to avoid fees, the compatibility with business software, and the interest rates on offer.

A careful examination of these factors can help us understand the strengths and weaknesses of these two banking options. This understanding can guide us in choosing the bank that best aligns with our unique business requirements.

Opening an Account

Novo is a banking option that allows you to open an online account. The process is simple and efficient, requiring only basic business details and personal identification. They prioritize security and utilize encryption technology to protect your sensitive information. The convenience and speed of Novo’s process are ideal for those who prefer a digital experience.

TD Bank offers a more traditional banking experience with the option to open an online or in-person account. This provides flexibility for those who might prefer a more personal interaction. Like Novo, TD Bank also requires documentation such as proof of business and personal identification. They also focus on safeguarding your data with encryption technology.

Account Service Fees

Novo operates on a clear and simple pricing model. They don’t have monthly charges, there’s no need to maintain a minimum balance, and they don’t spring hidden fees on you. This straightforward structure is a boon for businesses that aim to keep costs low and avoid unpredicted expenses.

TD Bank’s fee system is a bit more intricate. They provide a range of business checking accounts, each with its own set of monthly charges, transaction costs, and other fees based on the type of account and its usage. TD Bank does have mechanisms in place to waive these monthly fees, but businesses should go through the fee schedule thoroughly to avoid any unexpected charges.

Ultimately, for businesses that value simplicity and cost-effectiveness, Novo’s transparent fee structure might be a more fitting choice.

Minimum Balance Requirements

Novo is an online-only bank that caters to the needs of smaller businesses or startups. Maintaining a hefty minimum balance can be challenging for these types of organizations. That’s why Novo is a great option — they don’t require a minimum balance for their business bank accounts. This allows firms that mightn’t have a large amount of capital to keep their money where it’s needed most: in their business.

TD Bank requires a minimum balance for their business bank accounts. The exact amount varies depending on the type of account and the business’s specific needs. It’s essential to consider your financial situation before choosing TD Bank. The higher balance requirements could potentially strain your business’s finances.

As we move onto the next topic — software integration — it’s worth noting how these banks work with different software platforms to make your business operations run more smoothly.

Software Integrations

Novo is a strong contender regarding software integration in business bank accounts. They offer a seamless connection with widely-used accounting software like QuickBooks and Xero, simplifying business financial management. Moreover, Novo goes beyond just accounting software, connecting with payment platforms such as Stripe and Square. This broad range of integrations makes accepting payments from customers a breeze.

Switching focus to TD Bank, their software integration options for business bank accounts also deserve a mention. They too offer connections with some accounting software, albeit with a narrower selection than Novo.

The key for any business is to pinpoint their individual software needs, and then choose a bank that can provide the necessary integrations to support their operations effectively.

Interest Rates

Novo is a notable player in the mobile banking space, offering business accounts with appealing interest rates. This means that businesses depositing their funds with Novo have the potential to see their money grow over time. Their focus seems to be on providing modern banking solutions that cater to the needs of businesses, particularly when it comes to earning interest on their deposits.

On the flip side, we have the well-established TD Bank. Their primary focus is more on delivering traditional banking services to businesses rather than on offering high-interest rates for business accounts. However, a reliable institution, businesses interested in maximizing earnings through interest rates might find that TD Bank’s offerings fall short compared to Novo’s.

Account Security

As a business owner, I understand the significance of account security. Novo takes this concern to heart and has put in place strong measures to protect customer data and funds. They use strong encryption methods, usually seen at banks, to ensure data safety. This is coupled with multi-factor authentication which adds an extra layer of protection. If any unusual activity is detected in your account, Novo will immediately alert you, ensuring you always stay informed.

TD Bank isn’t left behind in the pursuit of account security. They take the safety of customer information and funds seriously, implementing advanced encryption and firewall technologies. TD Bank also has a dedicated team that works round the clock, monitoring for any potential threats that might compromise customer account security. As a business owner, these actions make me feel confident that my data and funds are secure.

ATM Access

Novo offers business owners like myself a practical solution when it comes to ATM access. They grant free usage of more than 55,000 ATMs across the country via the Allpoint network. This wide-reaching network assures me that I can readily obtain my funds without the stress of extra fees. Novo’s commitment to customer safety is also commendable, as they’ve established robust security protocols to guard against fraudulent practices. This kind of dedication gives business owners the confidence to trust in Novo’s secure and convenient ATM access.

TD Bank shows its strength with an impressive collection of over 1,300 ATM locations throughout the United States. An added bonus is their offer to refund non-TD ATM fees up to a set limit, giving me more options and flexibility when I need to get cash. Like Novo, TD Bank takes customer security seriously and has put in place strong measures to prevent fraud. This ensures that business owners can depend on TD Bank for secure and convenient ATM transactions.

Customer Service

Novo, specifically, has shown an admirable dedication to serving my business banking needs. Their customer service team is consistently quick to respond and professional, addressing any concerns I may have. They’ve shown themselves to be well-versed in financial matters, always ready to provide clear and comprehensive advice. Their understanding of the unique needs of business owners is evident in their willingness to go the extra mile to ensure satisfaction. The peace of mind that comes with knowing I can rely on Novo’s customer service is invaluable to me as a business owner.

TD Bank has also proven to be an excellent partner for my business. Their customer service team is equally adept at providing prompt, professional assistance. They handle my questions and issues effectively, and their guidance on financial matters is always helpful. Their customer service team has demonstrated a deep understanding of the needs of businesses like mine, and they consistently strive to exceed customer expectations. I’ve found their attention to detail particularly reassuring, as it shows their commitment to providing the best possible service to their customers.

In the next part of this article, I’ll discuss the overdraft policies of both banks.

Overdraft Policies

Novo offers a different approach to overdraft policies. Rather than providing traditional overdraft services, this online bank has introduced a ‘Safety Net’ feature for eligible accounts. If you happen to make transactions that surpass your available balance, this feature kicks in, allowing the transactions to go through up to a certain limit. This approach helps you avoid the embarrassment of declined transactions and saves you from NSF fees.

TD Bank uses a more conventional method. They provide overdraft protection, which requires customers to connect their business account to another TD Bank account or a credit line. If a transaction goes over the available balance, the funds are automatically moved over to cover the shortfall. However, keep in mind that this could result in fees and interest charges.

It’s always wise for businesses to scrutinize the overdraft policies of both banks to figure out which one aligns best with their financial habits and needs.

The next point of discussion are the transaction limits imposed by Novo and TD Bank.

Transaction Limits

Novo is an attractive option for those seeking flexibility in terms of transaction limits. As a Novo account holder, you have the freedom to make unlimited transactions, which encompasses deposits, withdrawals, and transfers. This unrestricted approach allows you to manage your banking needs without worrying about hitting a limit. It’s an excellent choice if your business sees high volumes of transactions.

TD Bank operates on a tiered system for transaction limits. The type of business account you hold determines your transaction allowance. For instance, their basic business account permits up to 200 transactions a month, while the premium accounts offer a higher allowance. This setup might fit businesses that don’t require a high number of monthly transactions.

When choosing a bank, keep your business’s transaction volume in mind to ensure the bank can cater to your needs.

FDIC insurance

Novo. As an entrepreneur, the topmost priority is ensuring the safety of my funds. One way to guarantee this is through FDIC insurance, which Novo provides through its partnership with Middlesex Federal Savings. This ensures that my deposits are safe up to the standard $250,000 limit. It’s comforting to know that even in the unlikely event of a bank failure, my business funds are secure.

TD Bank. FDIC insurance is also an important feature offered by TD Bank. This protection covers my deposits, offering a safety net in the face of financial instability. Like Novo, TD Bank’s FDIC insurance coverage reaches up to the standard $250,000 limit. It’s reassuring to know that my business’s financial base is secure, allowing me to focus on growth and innovation.

As a business owner, I also need to consider how banks handle wire and ACH transfers.

Wire and ACH Transfers

Novo provides wire transfer services to its business clients, ensuring a swift and secure way to move funds, either within the country or across borders. They make sure that the safety of these transactions is never compromised by employing high-standard security measures and encryption techniques.

Novo also offers Automated Clearing House (ACH) transfers, a cost-effective method to electronically move money between accounts. This is especially beneficial for businesses that routinely need to handle payroll, vendor payments, and other recurring transactions.

Moving to TD Bank, this traditional financial institution also provides wire transfer services to their business customers, emphasizing the security of these transactions. Like Novo, TD Bank also supports ACH transfers, presenting a cost-effective alternative to wire transfers for routine transactions.

Whether it’s a wire or ACH transfer, businesses can rest assured that their transactions are being handled efficiently and securely by TD Bank.

Loans / Lines Of Credit

Novo operates solely online and doesn’t provide traditional loans or lines of credit. Instead, they’ve teamed up with a range of lending institutions, providing clients with the opportunity to apply for business loans and lines of credit without leaving their platform.

TD Bank provides an abundant array of borrowing options for businesses. These include term loans, lines of credit, and commercial mortgages. Their knowledgeable lending team is available to work hand-in-hand with business owners to identify the loan solution that fits their unique needs.

Now, let’s discuss the next topic: account reporting.

Account Reporting

Novo provides a straightforward account reporting system that fits the needs of business owners who prefer simplicity. They offer real-time notifications and a transaction history which are readily accessible through their mobile app. This effective and simple approach enables business owners to stay on top of their account activity, assisting them in making informed financial decisions.

TD Bank provides a more detailed account reporting system, emphasizing customizability and in-depth financial analysis. Their comprehensive offering includes detailed statements and an array of reporting options that can be tailored to specific business needs. This can be particularly useful for businesses that require detailed financial scrutiny.

The choice between Novo and TD Bank will, therefore, depend on the specific reporting needs and preferences of the business owner.

Payroll integration

Novo has a user-friendly platform that provides a simple way to integrate with leading payroll providers. This tool enables businesses to automate their payroll tasks and streamline their operations. The result is accurate and prompt payments, reducing the likelihood of mistakes, and fostering a happier workforce.

TD Bank also offers payroll integration services. Businesses can sync their payroll systems with their bank accounts effortlessly. This setup simplifies the payroll process, providing confidence that funds are correctly allocated. Like Novo, TD Bank also offers a dependable solution for payroll integration, supplying businesses with the necessary tools for effective payroll management.

Let’s now transition to the next section.

Alright, Let’s Wrap This Up

After assessing both Novo and TD Bank, it’s clear for all to see why Novo takes the trophy. Novo has managed to carve a niche for itself, specifically catering to the unique requirements of startups. This is a critical factor that sets it apart from traditional banks, such as TD Bank.

Now, why does Novo stand out? For starters, it provides a smooth process for setting up an account. Its dashboard is user-friendly, which means you don’t need to be a tech wizard to navigate it. The bank also integrates effortlessly with other business tools, making your life a whole lot easier.

But that’s not all. They’ve got a robust mobile app that lets you manage your finances from anywhere, anytime. So whether you’re sipping coffee at a local café or stuck in a traffic jam, you can stay on top of your finances.

Security is another area where Novo shines. The bank takes fraud prevention seriously, ensuring your financial data remains safe and secure. So, while TD Bank may have a more extensive range of services to offer, Novo’s targeted services, secure environment, and user-friendly approach make it the clear winner for startups seeking a reliable and efficient banking solution.

--

--