In the crowded world of UK business banking, it’s rare to find a genuinely free current account that’s both simple and reliable. NatWest’s Mettle is one such offering — quietly growing yet still flying under the radar of many small business owners and freelancers. We decided to put it to the test, opening an account in just seven minutes, and here’s what we discovered about its pros, cons, and how the bundled FreeAgent accounting integration can transform your finances.
What is Mettle? A quick introduction
Mettle is a digital-first business current account launched by NatWest in 2019 to target sole traders, freelancers, and small limited companies. Unlike traditional banks, Mettle operates entirely through a smartphone app and website, focusing on simplicity and fast account setup. It’s authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), ensuring your funds are protected and transactions are secure.
One of Mettle’s standout features is that it offers a 100% free business account with no monthly fees, no charges on Faster Payments, and free UK bank transfers. This makes it an attractive option for startups and side hustlers who want to keep banking costs low while managing their finances efficiently.
See alsoTide referral code REFER200: full review and £200 offer guide→How to open your Mettle account in 7 minutes
- Visit the Mettle website or download the Mettle app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
- Enter your email address and create a secure password to register your account.
- Provide basic business details including your business name, type (sole trader, partnership, or limited company), and registration number if applicable.
- Submit your personal identification documents — typically a passport or UK driver’s licence — by uploading photos through the app.
- Confirm your UK address and phone number, which are used for identity verification and communication.
- Review and accept Mettle’s terms and conditions.
- Once approved, you’ll receive your unique sort code and account number to start banking immediately.
To speed up your Mettle account setup, make sure you have your passport or driving licence and proof of UK address handy before you start. The app guides you through capturing clear photos which helps avoid delays.
The pros: Why Mettle stands out for UK startups
Mettle packs a punch for small businesses and freelancers who want a hassle-free banking experience without hidden fees or complicated features. Here are some key advantages:
- Completely free business account with zero monthly fees or transaction charges.
- Faster Payments and BACS transfers included at no cost, ideal for paying contractors or receiving client payments.
- Simple, easy-to-use smartphone app with real-time notifications and transaction categorisation to track spending.
- Straightforward integration with FreeAgent accounting software, which is included free for 12 months for new Mettle customers.
- No minimum balance or deposit required — perfect for startups managing tight cash flow.
- Dedicated UK-based customer support team reachable via chat or email.
For many UK freelancers, the FreeAgent integration alone can save hours each month by automatically syncing transactions and making tax time less stressful. FreeAgent handles Self Assessment submissions, VAT returns, and expense tracking, all linked directly to your Mettle account.
Mettle comes with a complimentary 12-month FreeAgent subscription, a popular UK accounting software tailored for freelancers and small businesses. This saves you around £12 a month compared to subscribing separately.
The cons: Where Mettle could improve
No business account is perfect, and Mettle has some limitations that might be dealbreakers for certain companies or sectors. Understanding these will help you decide if Mettle is right for your business.
- No overdraft facility or lending options directly through Mettle — you’ll need to apply separately with NatWest or elsewhere for credit.
- Limited international payment capabilities; primarily designed for UK Faster Payments and BACS only.
- No physical branches or cash deposit facilities, which may not suit businesses dealing heavily with cash.
- Relatively basic app features compared to established banks, lacking advanced budgeting tools or multi-user access for teams.
- No ability to open joint business accounts — account holders must be sole traders or directors of limited companies.
If your business requires more complex banking needs, such as multi-user access or overdrafts, you may want to consider other providers. However, for freelancers and early-stage startups, Mettle’s streamlined offering covers the essentials effectively.
Managing your finances with Mettle and FreeAgent
One of Mettle’s biggest selling points is its integration with FreeAgent accounting software, which is included free for one year. This combination works hand in hand to simplify your admin and keep your books in order, especially if you’re new to business finances.
When you connect your Mettle account to FreeAgent, every transaction you make — whether it’s a client payment, supplier invoice, or business expense — automatically appears inside the accounting app. This removes the need for manual data entry and reduces errors.
- Track income and expenses in real time, categorising transactions for HMRC compliance.
- Generate professional invoices and send them directly to clients from within FreeAgent.
- Prepare and submit your Self Assessment tax return online without extra hassle.
- Monitor cash flow with easy-to-read dashboards tailored for freelancers and limited companies.
- Set up reminders for payment deadlines and VAT submissions to avoid penalties.
FreeAgent also supports payroll if you have employees, making it a scalable solution as your business grows. The seamless sync with Mettle means your bank statements and accounting records always match, simplifying year-end accounts and tax planning.
FreeAgent is HMRC-recognised software that supports Making Tax Digital (MTD) for VAT, so you can submit compliant digital VAT returns directly from the app, saving time and reducing errors.
Real founder experience: Why I chose Mettle for my startup
"“As a solo freelance graphic designer, I wanted a no-nonsense business account without monthly fees or complicated paperwork. Mettle’s quick signup and the FreeAgent integration meant I could track my income and expenses effortlessly from day one. It’s been a game-changer for simplifying my admin and helping me focus on growing my business.” — Sarah, London-based freelancer"
Sarah’s experience highlights how Mettle appeals to UK freelancers who want straightforward banking with useful accounting tools bundled in. The absence of fees and the speed of setup make it especially attractive for those starting out or running side hustles alongside their main job.
Is Mettle right for your business? Final thoughts
Mettle is an excellent choice if you’re a UK-based sole trader, freelancer, or small limited company looking for a 100% free, easy-to-manage business current account. Its app-first approach and FreeAgent integration offer a streamlined solution for everyday banking and bookkeeping without hidden charges or complexity.
However, if your business requires overdrafts, international payments, cash handling, or multi-user access, you may find Mettle’s features limited. It’s worth balancing your priorities and considering how your banking needs might evolve as your company grows.
Opening a Mettle account takes just minutes, with minimal paperwork and no branch visits, making it one of the most accessible business accounts on the UK market. For many startups and side hustlers, Mettle offers a cost-effective, efficient way to manage business finances in 2024 and beyond.