Business Bank Account vs. Personal Account – What You Need for a GmbH
Why a Business Account Matters for a GmbH
When forming a GmbH (Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung) in Switzerland, one of the key steps is depositing the share capital. By law, this capital must be placed into a business account on a blocked (Sperrkonto) until the company is registered.
A common misconception among new entrepreneurs is that a personal bank account might be enough. The reality: it isn’t. Swiss law requires a clearly separated business account to ensure transparency, proper accounting, and compliance with corporate regulations.
Trying to use a personal account for a GmbH can lead to:
Registration refusal by the Commercial Register
Compliance issues with banks and tax authorities
Complicated accounting and blurred financial lines
Risk of personal liability if company funds are mixed with private money
For both legal and practical reasons, a business account is not optional — it is essential.
Building Credibility with a Business Account
Beyond compliance, a proper business account helps you:
Build trust with clients, suppliers, and partners
Access financing options such as credit lines and business loans
Keep your accounting and tax reporting clean
Demonstrate professional corporate governance
Final Takeaway
A business bank account is an indispensable part of setting up a Swiss GmbH. Personal accounts may be convenient, but they simply don’t meet the legal or financial requirements for operating a company.
With the right guidance, opening a GmbH account in Switzerland is straightforward — and it sets the foundation for credibility and growth.