What it does
Tide combines a UK business account with invoices, expenses and accounting connections. It serves eligible sole traders and limited companies, and says ClearBank supplies the bank account. A Free plan has no monthly charge; Smart, Pro and Max add larger allowances and other paid features.
Tide plans and transaction allowances
| Plan | Monthly price | Included bank transfers |
|---|---|---|
| Free | £0 | 5 per month |
| Smart | £12.49 | 30 per month |
| Pro | £27.49 | Unlimited |
| Max | £69.99 | Unlimited |
The Free plan lists a 2.75% foreign-exchange fee on international card payments. Invoicing is limited to three invoices a month on Free, Smart and Pro; Max lists unlimited invoicing. Tide says it does not charge VAT on its paid plans. Other usage fees can still apply.
Apply and connect the business records
You must be over 18 and have a UK-based business. Apply through the app with business details, valid photo ID and a selfie. The account route supports sole traders and limited-company directors.
Once approved, accounting connections or transaction exports can pass the bank activity to an accountant. Tide identifies itself as a financial platform, with current accounts provided by ClearBank.
Strengths
- Transactions can be exported or connected to accounting software.
- The Free plan includes five bank transfers a month.
Watch out for
- The Free plan charges 2.75% on international card payments.
- Unlimited invoicing requires Max; the other listed plans include three invoices a month.
Best for
- UK sole traders combining business payments and invoices
- Limited companies comparing transaction allowances across account plans
Sources
- Tide UK business current account and eligibility (Oct 27, 2026)
- Tide plans and pricing (Oct 27, 2026)
- Tide Smart pricing and VAT (Oct 27, 2026)