If you have a home based business, would u need to open separate checking account for business?

Question

I have a personal checking account but would like to know if any home based business owners hav separated account in business name or do you use personal account?

Answer 1

It is going to be easier to go ahead and open that business checking account. If you are writing business checks from your own, it will get confusing come tax time. It usually does not cost much , if anything to open that business account. It also gives legitimacy to your operation. When you write a personal check, it comes off as amateur. People will wonder how long you will be around.

Answer 2

You need a business account to be able to cash any checks that are written out in the business name.  To open an account, you simply need to get an Assumed Name Certificate notorized.  You simply go to the district clerk's office and ask for an Assumed Name Certificate, sign it and notorize it and then file it right there with the clerk for less than 20 dollars.  They then give you a copy, showing that it has been filed (the assumed name cert.) and you take that with you to the bank to open your account.

Answer 3

I have a home based business a little different then most.  I don't have a business account.  I just use my personal account.  I don't have products to purchase either or things to buy for my business.  I do get receipts for things I pay for with car expenses.  I think it depends on what type of business you have though.  Mine you don't have to.  Check with your tax man and ask him or contact your lawyer and ask him if it's necessary.

Heather

Answer 4

Both my wife and I (two separate home based businesses) use separate checking accounts for our businesses.  

In addition we both do a significant amount of business through eBay, but we use our personal checking account for that.