Tide vs Cashplus for business banking – What’s best? Features, costs, pros and cons explained

Last updated on 29 August 2023

Are you considering Tide vs Cashplus? When it comes to choosing a business banking provider, entrepreneurs and small business owners in the UK are often faced with a multitude of options. Among the emerging fintech players in the market, Tide and Cashplus have gained significant traction, offering innovative solutions tailored specifically to the needs of small businesses.

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In this article, we will compare Tide vs Cashplus to help you make an informed decision based on their pros, cons, key differences, costs, and other considerations.

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Tide vs Cashplus

FeaturesTideCashplus
Account SetupQuick and easy, usually within minutesRelatively easy, quick approval
Cash Deposit OptionsNot availablePayPoint locations across the UK
Credit FacilitiesNot availableOverdrafts, loans, credit facilities
Accounting IntegrationsSeamless integration with Xero, QuickBooks, and othersLimited integration options
Mobile AppIntuitive and user-friendlyUser-friendly but may lack some advanced features
Pricing StructureFree for basic account, paid plans availablePay As You Go or monthly fixed fee for unlimited transactions
Customer SupportOccasional reports of delays and difficultiesReports of occasional delays in response times
Security and TrustRobust security measures and compliance with regulatory standardsStrong security measures in place
Cash Withdrawal FeesVaries based on account type and transaction detailsVaries based on account type and transaction details
Foreign Currency TransactionsFees apply for international transfersFees apply for foreign currency transactions
Tide vs Cashplus features compared

Please note that the information provided in the table is based on general knowledge and research, and it’s always advisable to visit the official websites of both providers for the most up-to-date and accurate information on their features and services.

Remember to consider your specific business requirements and priorities when evaluating these features to determine which banking provider aligns best with your needs.

Statistics

  1. Tide:
  • As of 2021, Tide had over 400,000 registered members, making it one of the largest digital business banking providers in the UK.
  • Tide processed over £10 billion in payments for its members in 2020, highlighting its significant transactional volume and popularity among small businesses.
  • The Tide app has received positive ratings, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 on both the App Store and Google Play Store, indicating high user satisfaction.
  1. Cashplus:
  • Cashplus has served over 1.7 million customers since its inception, establishing itself as a prominent player in the business banking sector.
  • Cashplus has been recognised for its growth and innovation, ranking in The Sunday Times Tech Track 100 list of fastest-growing tech companies in the UK multiple times.
  • The Cashplus mobile app has received mixed reviews, with an average rating of around 3.5 out of 5 on both the App Store and Google Play Store, indicating varying user experiences.

Tide

Tide is a leading digital business banking platform designed to simplify financial management for small businesses. It offers business current accounts, expense management tools, invoicing capabilities, and integrated accounting features. Tide’s focus is on providing a user-friendly and streamlined banking experience to help entrepreneurs save time and effort.

Tide pros

  • Quick and easy account setup, usually within minutes.
  • Intuitive and user-friendly mobile app for easy banking on the go.
  • Seamless integration with popular accounting software, such as Xero and QuickBooks.
  • Tools and features to help manage expenses and track cash flow effectively.
  • Competitive fees for domestic and international transactions.

Tide cons

  • Limited cash deposit options, as Tide does not have physical branches.
  • Some users have reported occasional customer support issues.
  • No overdraft facility, which may be a disadvantage for businesses requiring short-term credit.

Cashplus

Cashplus is another prominent fintech company that provides business banking services targeted at small businesses and entrepreneurs. Cashplus offers business current accounts, payment processing solutions, expense management tools, and credit facilities. It aims to offer accessible and flexible banking services to businesses that may have difficulty accessing traditional banking options.

Cashplus pros

  • Relatively easy account setup process, with quick approval and minimal documentation.
  • Ability to deposit cash at selected PayPoint locations across the UK.
  • Option to apply for business credit facilities, including overdrafts and loans.
  • Straightforward fee structure with transparent pricing.
  • Dedicated account manager for certain account types.

Cashplus cons

  • The mobile app could be more user-friendly and may lack some advanced features.
  • Integration options with popular accounting software are limited.
  • Some users have experienced delays in customer service response times.

Tide vs Cashplus – Key differences

  • Cash deposit options: One key difference between Tide and Cashplus is the availability of cash deposit options. Cashplus allows users to deposit cash at selected PayPoint locations, which can be beneficial for businesses that handle physical cash frequently. On the other hand, Tide does not offer cash deposit facilities, as it operates as a digital-only bank.
  • Credit facilities: Cashplus provides businesses with the opportunity to access credit facilities, such as overdrafts and loans, which can be valuable for managing cash flow and financing short-term needs. Tide, however, does not currently offer any credit facilities, which may be a limitation for businesses requiring immediate access to credit.
  • Accounting integrations: Tide excels in its integration capabilities with popular accounting software like Xero and QuickBooks, allowing for seamless data transfer and efficient bookkeeping. Cashplus has more limited integration options, which may require manual data entry or additional steps for reconciliation.

Tide vs Cashplus – Costs and fees

Tide offers various account plans with different pricing structures to suit different business needs. The basic Tide Start account is free, while the paid plans, such as Tide Plus and Tide Premium, offer additional features and services at monthly fees of £9.99 and £49.99, respectively. Tide also charges fees for certain transactions, such as cash withdrawals and international transfers.

Cashplus offers a Pay As You Go pricing model, where users pay per transaction or a monthly fixed fee for unlimited transactions. The exact monthly fee depends on the specific account type, with options like Cashplus Business and Cashplus Gold. Cashplus also has additional charges for certain services, such as cash deposits and foreign currency transactions.

It’s important to carefully review the fee structures of both Tide and Cashplus to determine which option aligns best with your business’s transactional needs and budget.

Tide vs Cashplus – Other considerations

Customer support

While both Tide and Cashplus strive to offer responsive customer support, some users have reported occasional delays or difficulties in reaching customer service representatives. It’s worth considering the quality and availability of customer support when evaluating these banking providers, especially if prompt assistance is essential for your business operations.

User experience

The overall user experience can play a significant role in your decision-making process. Both Tide and Cashplus provide mobile apps for convenient banking on the go. However, some users have found the Cashplus app to be less intuitive and lacking certain advanced features compared to Tide’s user-friendly interface. Evaluating the user experience through reviews, demos, or trial periods can help you determine which platform better suits your preferences.

Security and trust

Ensuring the security of your business’s financial transactions and data is crucial. Both Tide and Cashplus employ robust security measures to protect their customers’ information. However, it’s essential to research and understand their security protocols, encryption methods, and compliance with regulatory standards to make an informed decision.

Reviews and recommendations

Gathering insights from other businesses that have used Tide or Cashplus can provide valuable perspectives. Consider reading customer reviews, testimonials, and industry expert opinions to gauge the overall reputation and reliability of each banking provider.

Verdict

In conclusion, Tide and Cashplus are prominent players in the UK business banking sector, each with its own set of advantages and considerations.

Tide offers a user-friendly interface, seamless accounting integrations, and competitive fees, while Cashplus provides cash deposit options, credit facilities, and flexible pricing models.

Assessing your business’s specific requirements, such as cash handling needs, credit access, and integration preferences, will help you determine which option aligns best with your banking needs.

Remember to carefully review the costs, features, customer support, and security measures of both providers before making your final decision.

Tide vs Cashplus FAQ

Can I open a business account with Tide or Cashplus if I’m a sole trader or freelancer?

Yes, both Tide and Cashplus cater to sole traders, freelancers, and small businesses. They offer business banking services tailored to the needs of these types of entities.

Are Tide and Cashplus regulated and licensed as banks?

Tide and Cashplus are not traditional banks, but they operate under the supervision and regulation of the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK. They hold electronic money licenses, which allow them to provide business banking services.

Can I access my Tide or Cashplus account through a web browser?

Tide primarily operates through its mobile app, while Cashplus provides both mobile app and web browser access. Cashplus offers the convenience of accessing your account through either channel, depending on your preference.

Can I make international transactions with Tide and Cashplus?

Both Tide and Cashplus offer international transaction capabilities, including international transfers and payments in foreign currencies. However, fees and exchange rates may apply, so it’s advisable to review their respective fee structures for international transactions.

Do Tide and Cashplus offer business loans or financing options?

While Cashplus provides business credit facilities, such as overdrafts and loans, Tide currently does not offer credit facilities. If access to credit is important for your business, Cashplus may be a more suitable option.

Can I integrate Tide or Cashplus with my existing accounting software?

Tide is known for its strong integration capabilities with popular accounting software like Xero and QuickBooks, allowing for seamless data transfer and streamlined bookkeeping. Cashplus, however, has more limited integration options. If integration with specific accounting software is crucial for your business, consider the compatibility of both providers with your preferred software.

How do I deposit cash with Cashplus?

Cashplus allows you to deposit cash at selected PayPoint locations across the UK. You can locate the nearest PayPoint location using their online locator tool. Keep in mind that Tide does not offer cash deposit options as it operates as a digital-only bank.

Remember, it’s important to conduct thorough research, review the official websites of Tide and Cashplus, and consult with their customer support if you have specific questions or concerns. This will help you gather accurate and up-to-date information tailored to your business’s unique requirements.

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Reviewed by , Managing Director

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