Opening a new business account

kelkat · #1 (**permalink**) 06-20-2006, 08:53 AM

I went yesterday to talk with a bank about opening a business checking account. While they were offering a "free for a year" incentive, this did not include checks. Business checks are outrageous.

Since funds are limited (ie. nonexistant) at present, should I just open up a personal account for now and keep my business funds seperate?

And while I'm on the subject, you would think that banks would be more eager to get your business. Gone are the days when they are the only game in town.

Benji · #2 (**permalink**) 06-20-2006, 04:14 PM

Banks are often as full of red tape as city hall. The personality of a personal banker is often tied directly to your credit rating and risk and returns ratio. You're right, there are other places to do business, give them a chance at your business.

kelkat · #3 (**permalink**) 06-27-2006, 10:31 AM

I've decided to let my husband (a teacher) check out the local teachers credit union.

I've also decided to shop local banks and let them know I'm shopping around, maybe that will light a little fire under them.

brian · #4 (**permalink**) 07-01-2006, 09:46 AM

I'm surprised - over here in the UK most (but not all) banks offer free business banking for anywhere between 12-18 months.

Certainly it sounds as if you should shop around.

kelkat · #5 (**permalink**) 07-19-2006, 10:44 PM

Like I said, they offered "free" checking for a year, but the checks ran $40 ish. That's just more than I'm wanting to waste at this time. Besides, my husband just opened a personal account and they bought his checks for him.

I want to find the place that begs to do business with me!

Hey, maybe I should open a credit union (one for self employed people).

Benji · #6 (**permalink**) 08-07-2006, 02:54 PM

Maybe you should. I know it costs money to run a bank, but many banks aren't working very hard to secure savy customers. It's almost like they're saying, "Bank with us - you look stupid enough."

taiarain · #7 (**permalink**) 12-26-2006, 07:20 PM

Ouch. I know this is an old thread, but...

I have a low transaction volume and got free business checking. Lifetime free, not free for so long. My banker also threw in four boxes of free checks.

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