Relay Bank is a US digital bank built for businesses that need multiple bank accounts, spending controls, and team management. Bangladeshi entrepreneurs who operate US LLCs benefit from Relay's sub-account system for managing different revenue streams, expense categories, or client funds separately.
Relay Bank's Key Features for Bangladeshi Entrepreneurs
Relay Bank stands out for international LLC owners who need more structure than Mercury offers:
- Up to 20 checking accounts per LLC (for separating revenue streams)
- 50 physical and virtual debit cards with spend limits
- Built-in integration with QuickBooks and Xero for bookkeeping
- ACH payments, wire transfers, and check payments
- Team access management (give your accountant read-only access)
Mercury vs Relay: Which Is Right for You?
Choose Mercury if: You want the simplest, cleanest banking experience with great startup/tech integrations and international wire support.
Choose Relay if: You have multiple income streams, work with a bookkeeper or accountant, want strict spending controls, or need to segment funds across several accounts (operating expenses, tax reserves, payroll).
Both are equally legitimate for Bangladeshi LLC owners. Many entrepreneurs start with Mercury and move to Relay as their business scales.
How to Open Relay Bank from Bangladesh
The process is identical to Mercury:
- Get ITIN from ITIN Plus — $99
- Form US LLC (Delaware or Wyoming)
- Get EIN for the LLC
- Apply for Relay with LLC documents and EIN
Relay approves accounts for foreign-owned LLCs with proper documentation. Processing is typically 1–5 business days after LLC formation.
ITIN Plus for Your US Business Setup
Getting your ITIN is the foundational step for any US business setup from Bangladesh. ITIN Plus handles the entire application for $99. IRS Certified Acceptance Agent. No US travel. 8–14 week processing. Email apply@itinplus.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Bangladeshis open a Relay Bank account?
Yes, through a US LLC. Relay accepts foreign-owned US LLCs. You need an EIN for the LLC, LLC formation documents, and your passport for identity verification.
Is Relay Bank better than Mercury for Bangladeshi businesses?
It depends on your needs. Mercury is simpler and better for straightforward banking. Relay excels when you need multiple sub-accounts, spending controls, and bookkeeping integrations. Both are excellent options.
Do I need an ITIN to open Relay Bank?
Relay primarily requires an EIN for the LLC. Your ITIN is needed to correctly set up the US LLC as a foreign owner and for IRS compliance. ITIN Plus handles both ITIN and EIN guidance.
Does Relay Bank support international wire transfers?
Yes, Relay supports international wire transfers for sending money globally. This is useful for Bangladeshi LLC owners paying international suppliers or transferring profits back to Bangladesh.
What is the monthly fee for Relay Bank?
Relay Bank offers a free tier with most essential banking features. A paid tier (Relay Pro, approximately $30/month) adds advanced features like 50 virtual cards and priority support.