How do I add my business name to my bank account?

Question

I'm a painter by hobby, and just recently named my "business" Caliope Studios. I don't sell many paintings - at the most, 1 a month, but I would like my clients to pay me by my business name, rather than my name (so their checks would be made out to Caliope Studios and I will be able to cash them).

Can I add the name Caliope Studios to my personal WaMu account and accept checks using that? Since I won't be selling a lot of paintings, I'll much rather not have to open a 'business account' that has a huge minimum balance.

I tried calling WaMu with this question, but their phone systems are having "technical difficulties" today...

Answer 1

You have to open a business account to use your business name for payments.  You also need to file a fictitious business name statement (dba) with your county clerk record office in order to open a business account at a bank, which can cost anywhere form $10-$100 depending on where you live.  I think the minimum you have to deposit to open a business account at WaMu is $100.