Small Business

All the financial resources you need to take care of business in one place.

Small-business tools

Business Loans

Find term loans, lines of credit and other options.

Business Credit Cards

Earn better perks and rewards for your spending.

Business Banking

Read our picks for business checking and saving.

Business Software

Choose the best POS, payroll software and more.

Business Insurance

Get the right BOP, liability insurance and coverage.

Small-business FAQ

What kind of business loan should you get?

The best small-business loan to get is generally the one with the lowest rates and most ideal terms. But other factors — like time to fund, the loan's purpose and your business’s qualifications — play a role in determining the right type of financing and lender for your business. Learn more about the types of business loans.

Do you need to open a business bank account?

It’s wise to keep your business finances separate from your personal affairs by opening a business checking account. Doing so will streamline your bookkeeping and, if you're self-employed, make it easier to calculate estimated taxes. Learn more about what you need to open a business banking account.

Should you use a business credit card to fund a startup?

Business credit cards can be a great option for short-term startup funding because they rely on your personal credit (instead of your business history) to qualify. But be aware of a high APRs and short repayment periods — or opt for a 0% APR card — if you won't be able to pay off a purchase quickly. Learn more about the best business credit cards for startups.

Does your business need insurance?

You should have business insurance if you have a business entity and licenses, or if you live on your business income. Being uninsured can put your business assets at risk if you're sued, as well as your personal assets depending on your business structure. You'd also have to pay any claims or damages out of pocket for things like accidents or business interruptions. Learn more about how to determine if you need business insurance.

What business structure should you use?

Your business structure has implications for how the IRS taxes your business profits, as well as how your personal property is protected when others demand money from your business. The right choice for your business will depend on factors like your risk tolerance, management structure and long-term goals. Learn more about how to choose a business structure.

Should you hire an accountant or bookkeeper?

All small-business owners should consider hiring an accountant for their tax returns, at the least. Depending on the size of your business, you may also want a bookkeeper who can help with daily responsibilities, like recording transactions. Good accounting software can make it easy for you to manage those simpler tasks on your own as well. Learn more about the best accounting software for small businesses.

Our picks for: Small-business financing

Best Small-Business Loans for Women

Bank loans, SBA loans, online loans and microloans are some of the financing options available to women-owned businesses.

Best Business Loans for Bad Credit

Even if you have a lower credit score, you may still qualify for certain business loan options.

Best Business Lines of Credit

A business line of credit gives you access to a set amount of capital that you can draw from as needed. You only pay interest on the funds you draw.

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Our picks for: Saving your business money

Small-Business Grants: Where to Find Free Funding

Federal and state agencies, as well as private companies, offer small-business grants. Here's a list of resources.

Best Free Business Checking Accounts

by Kelsey Sheehy, Rosalie Murphy

The business checking accounts on this list have no monthly fee or minimum balance requirement. The best ones go beyond that. They offer interest on your balance, standout software or round-the-clock support.

Cheapest Credit Card Processing Companies for Small Businesses

by Karrin Sehmbi, Hillary Crawford

There’s no free way to accept card payments. But these companies keep costs down without sacrificing value. The cheapest option for you will depend on factors like sales volume and how you process payments.

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