Looking for a business bank in Texas? In this guide, we compare Relay, an online banking platform, and Happy State Bank, a traditional bank.
Traditional banks, like Happy State Bank, offer a blend of in-person and online services, and modern platforms, like Relay, provide a fully digital banking experience tailored for businesses. Let's delve deeper into what each institution brings to the table.
In this article:
What is Relay?
At Relay, we know that clarity in your cash flow is crucial for entrepreneurial success. That’s why we collaborated with business owners, accountants, bookkeepers, and CPAs to create an all-in-one banking platform that works for everyone.
Our business checking accounts give you visibility into your revenue and spending patterns. You can enjoy unlimited transactions with automatic categorization based on industry codes, simplifying your bookkeeping and letting you quickly understand your monthly expenses.
Plus, if you come across an unfamiliar or unusual transaction, Relay lays out all the vendor details, such as check images and memos, to jog your memory.
What is Happy State Bank?
Happy State Bank is a financial institution based in Amarillo, Texas. A division of Centennial Bank, they offer a range of banking services, including personal and business banking with savings and checking accounts, loans, mortgages, and online banking. It’s also a Member FDIC bank, so your money is always safely insured.
Happy State Bank has many branch locations throughout Texas, primarily serving communities in the Texas Panhandle, the South Plains, and other parts of the state. It has over 50 locations including both in large and small towns.
Some of the cities with branch locations include Dallas, San Antonio, Lubbock, Amarillo, and Fort Worth, while some of the smaller communities include Kerrville, Lockney and Matador.
Relay vs. Happy State Bank comparison chart
Features/Services | Happy State Bank | Relay |
Open Account Online | ⛔️ | ✅ |
Online Banking | ✅ Web, Apple iOs and Android Mobile Apps | ✅ Web, Apple iOs and Android Mobile Apps |
Monthly Account Fees | $10- $13 | $0 |
Minimum Opening Deposit | $100 | None |
Minimum Balance Requirement | Varies by account | None |
Overdraft Fees | $35 | $0 |
Money Movement | Wire Transfer: $15-$25 domestic, $50 international ACH Payments: Fees not specified | Wire Transfer: $5 domestic, $10 international (Free with Relay Pro) ACH Payments: Free |
ATM Access | 104 | 55,000+ |
Branch Locations | Over 50 | Online-only |
Interest-bearing accounts | ✅ Varies by account | ✅ 1-3% APY on savings depending on balance |
Business Credit Cards | ⛔️ | ⛔️ |
Online Reviews |
What are Relay’s business banking features?
Relay provides business banking accounts built for business owners—with features that will keep you and your team in control of your cash flow at all times. Don’t worry about fees, paperwork or in-person branch visits.
Our all-in-one banking and money management platform empowers you to choose how you use your account. Here’s an overview of what to expect:
Optimize your income management, expenses, and reserves across 20 accounts, featuring 2 savings accounts with an APY of 1-3%*.
Issue as many as 50 physical or digital Visa® debit cards.
Simplify ACH transfers, wire transactions, and check processing.
Access cash through Allpoint+ ATMs throughout the U.S.
Receive payments seamlessly via platforms like Stripe, Square, and Shopify.
Use auto-transfer protocols to effortlessly move funds between accounts.
Set up secure team banking access with role-based permissions for employees and financial advisors.
Connect with our personalized customer support team via our email or phone number.
Rest assured knowing that every Relay account is backed by FDIC insurance, covering up to $250k through Thread Bank, and protected by the Visa® Zero Liability Protection Policy.
What are Happy State Bank’s business banking features?
Happy State Bank offers seven different types of business banking accounts including business checking, commercial checking, non-profit checking, sole proprietorship or government business checking, and more. There is even an account to help businesses establish a strong financial reputation.
Relay additional financial services
With Relay's savings accounts, your funds are never stagnant. Auto-transfer rules make sure excess cash is shifted out of your operating accounts. And the cherry on top? You can enjoy peace of mind without the burden of monthly or hidden fees—Relay has absolutely no account fees, overdraft charges, or minimum balance requirements. Plus, interest is paid out monthly. It’s that simple.
Relay's savings accounts help you earn on every spare dollar. Auto-transfer rules automatically move your surplus cash from your operating accounts, earning you 1-3% APY on your savings.
Whether you're looking to save three months' worth of operational expenses, fund a new business investment, or provide a well-deserved treat for your team, we’re here to expedite your journey toward achieving your financial goals.
Aside from our in-platform banking services, Relay integrates with the business tools you already use. You can easily connect your QuickBooks Online or Xero account for your bookkeeping needs, Gusto for payroll management, and other financial apps including Plaid or Yodlee. Our seamless integrations ensure that you can stay focused on your business operations while managing your finances efficiently.
And the best part? You can enjoy peace of mind knowing Relay has no account fees, overdraft charges, or minimum balance requirements. Plus, interest is paid out monthly.
Happy State additional financial services
Aside from business savings and checking accounts, Happy State Bank offers business lending services, including small business (SBA) loans, business lines of credit, and agricultural loans specialized for farm owners in the areas of Texas it serves.
Happy State Bank also offers business cash management services, including online banking, wire transfers, remote deposit capture, credit card processing, ACH services, and account reconciliation.
If you need a mortgage lender, loan officer, home & rental insurance, or auto insurance, Happy State Bank also provides these personal financial services.
Verdict: Which banking partner is right for your business?
Choosing the right banking partner is crucial for the success and growth of your business. Both Relay and Happy State Bank offer unique features tailored to support business needs.
While Relay provides a digital-first approach with seamless integrations and no monthly fees, Happy State Bank has deep local experience and a blend of in-person and online services.
To find the right fit for your business, consider your goals and the type of support you need. Then, choose the banking platform that aligns with your business plan. And if you're ready to sign up for Relay, you can get started entirely online here!
