Why do you need a business checking account?
There are various of benefits to having a business checking account. Some of the main benefits include:
- Check writing: When you have a business account, you can write checks just like you do with an individual account. You can use checks to pay your employees, pay for office supplies, and more. And of course, you can write checks as payments on invoices that you send to clients or vendors.
- Trouble-free accounting: Most accounts feature online banking, which allows you to access your accounts from anywhere in the world at any time. In addition, online accounts integrate with third-party accounting software to make it easier to bookkeep.
- Interest-bearing accounts: Some accounts pay interest on all money deposited. The interest return rate is usually low. However, it is still income if you have a large balance.
- Electronic payment options: Businesses can make payments across town or across borders quickly and easily via online banking services or through other digital payment options.
- Ease of use: Business checking accounts are easy to use. You can deposit checks by using an ATM or mobile banking app, and you can pay bills using the same method. You can withdraw cash anywhere there’s a bank branch or ATM that’s convenient for you to use.
- Tax benefits: Many businesses get tax deductions for their business expenses, including checks they write and the fees they pay to maintain their business checking accounts. Taking advantage of these deductions will help reduce your taxes and help keep more money in your pocket. Furthermore, you’ll know your costs and revenue which will make it easier during tax season.
What do you need to open a business checking account in Wisconsin?
The following are the basic requirements:
- Valid government-issued photo ID: driver’s license, passport, permanent resident card, military ID
- Proof of address (utility bill, lease agreement, etc.)
- Business license and articles of incorporation or limited liability company agreement
- Business’s Articles of Incorporation, Partnership Agreement, Corporate Resolution, or other legal documents that state its address and names of owners or partners
- Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) assigned by the IRS
Common business checking account fees in Wisconsin
Here’s a list of common fees associated with business checking accounts:
- Monthly maintenance fee: This is the most common charge levied against small businesses. Expect to pay between $10 and $50 per month for basic checking services. Some banks don’t levy this charge if you maintain a minimum balance, but that requirement is usually between $500 and $1,000.
- Statement copy fee: Many banks charge 50 cents to $2 for every statement copy you request from them. If you need monthly statements, this fee can really add up over time.
- Overdraft fees: This is probably one of the more well-known fees associated with checking accounts. If you don’t have enough money in your account to cover a transaction, your bank will usually cover it, but they’ll hit you with overdraft fees. These can range from $10 to $35 per transaction, so if you’re overdrawn by only a few dollars, it can quickly add up.
- ATM fees: The majority of banks charge customers a fee when they withdraw money from an ATM out of network. The fees vary by bank and ATM. Some banks charge more than $2 per transaction and others charge less than $1. Check with your bank to determine how much it will cost you to use other ATMs.
- Wire transfer: Some banks also charge additional fees when you send or receive wire transfers. Check with your bank to see if this applies to your account before sending a wire transfer.
How to choose the best business checking account in Wisconsin
Here are some factors consider when choosing your business checking account:
- Fees and service charges: Most business checking accounts charge fees. However, there are some that don’t. Fees can include monthly maintenance fees, overdraft fees, ATM fees, and more. Make sure you know how much the bank can charge you for using the account before choosing it.
- Online banking: A good business checking account should have an easy-to-use online banking platform with features such as e-statements and remote check deposit capabilities. This is the best way to keep track of your money and make deposits without having to visit a branch.
- Accessibility: The account should be available through multiple channels, including ATMs, and mobile apps. In addition, it should have customer service options such as live chat support or telephone customer service representatives on weekdays during business hours.
- Free checking: Most banks have free checking accounts where they do not charge any fees. This is definitely something to look into if you have a small business and want to keep all your money in one place without having to worry about paying fees every month.