Why Mercury Is Gaining Popularity in 2025
For digital entrepreneurs, remote founders, and international freelancers operating through US LLCs, Mercury has become a go-to banking solution. Designed specifically for startups and remote-first teams, it offers a streamlined, fee-free experience tailored to modern needs. But is it the right banking platform for you in 2025? Let’s find out.
What Is Mercury Bank?
Mercury is a US-based digital bank (technically a fintech platform with backing from FDIC-insured banks) that offers online business banking for startups and remote founders. You don’t need a US address or to visit a branch to open an account—just a registered US entity like an LLC or C-Corp.
Key Features of Mercury in 2025
1. Free USD Business Banking
No monthly fees, no minimum balances, and free ACH transfers make Mercury attractive for remote founders operating lean businesses.
2. Seamless International Wire Transfers
While domestic transfers are free, international wires (SWIFT) cost $20—competitive for US banking. You can send and receive USD globally.
3. Stripe & PayPal Integration
Mercury integrates smoothly with Stripe, allowing global SaaS founders and productized freelancers to receive USD payments with ease.
4. Virtual & Physical Cards
Issue unlimited virtual debit cards for subscriptions or team use. A physical card is also provided—usable globally with low FX fees.
5. Analytics, Permissions & API
Mercury includes built-in cash flow charts, user roles, and developer APIs—perfect for startups with teams or technical workflows.
Who Can Open a Mercury Account?
To use Mercury, you need a registered US business. For remote founders, this usually means setting up a US LLC (Delaware, Wyoming, etc.). Mercury does not currently support personal accounts or non-US entities.
- ✅ Non-US citizens allowed
- ✅ US address not required (use your agent’s address)
- ✅ All online — no physical presence needed
Pros and Cons of Using Mercury in 2025
✅ Pros
- No monthly fees or minimums
- Modern interface and automations
- Great for global Stripe/PayPal/ACH use
- Ideal for managing USD from abroad
❌ Cons
- Only available to US-registered businesses
- No personal accounts
- No built-in currency conversion or multicurrency support
Alternatives to Consider
If you don’t operate through a US LLC, consider:
- Wise Business: Great for freelancers without a US presence
- Payoneer: Marketplace-friendly, accepts USD globally
- Revolut Business: Excellent for EUR/GBP regions
Conclusion
Mercury is a smart, modern banking solution for remote founders running a US business. Its fee-free structure, solid integrations, and clean user experience make it one of the best options in 2025 for handling USD professionally. If you’re building globally with a US footprint, Mercury deserves a spot on your shortlist.
