Writen by Lance Winslow
One of the first things you will need to set up is a bank account. We recommend a large bank because:
They have locations everywhere
They have longer hours
They will probably buy out your local community bank anyway
If you are an owner/operator of a small business, you will appreciate having a Debit or ATM card for your business. They also have easy to read statements for merchant accounts, little or low fee checking accounts, locations in the grocery store, weekend banking, business credit cards (VISA or MC), small business loans, auto loans and leases, etc. If you run a lot of locations and are expanding your business you might even ask the local manager to fax you weekly confirmation of daily deposits made during the week.
When opening an account always ask about checking account fees, primarily deposits per check charges. Try to have these reduced or eliminated. If you wish to shop banks and fees, don't forget to shop service. We recommend these ten tips when selecting a bank.
Make an honest list of the services you want and those services you really need and then interview banks to see which services they provide on your 'shopping list'. Be careful at big banks. Ask for the branch manager and not the new accounts sales girl. Chances are she's just out of college and doesn't even understand real world banking relations or hand-shaking deals at the Rotary Club or golf course. She'll be too 'By-The-Book' to answer any real questions.
Start seeking referrals from long standing community and business leaders. Perhaps a local CPA, home based business consultant or small business owner. Make sure you get advice from people you respect.
Geography is important, but it should not in all cases be the deciding factor. You should start with nearby banks.
Visit the bank. Are there long teller lines? Is the staff courteous? Do they smile, etc.?
Sit down with a bank officer and don't be afraid to ask the tough questions: Do you really want our small company's business? Are you interested in long-term relationships? Will I be able to work with a certain specific person on a continuing basis? Will you treat me like a number? What is your turn around time on loan applications? How many layers of management are there until I get to the president? What's his or her name? Have you ever met them? May I?
Make clear exactly what you want and need from a banking relationship. Will you be looking for a loan soon? Like any other relationship, communication is the key to a good banking relationship.
Don't fall for flashy ads that promise you stuff and they forget your name next week. You might even come back the next day and ask "Do you remember my name? If they don't, smile and walk out.
Try not to be misled by free toasters or mouse pads if you open an account. These free items won't help your car wash business thrive, but a good banking relationship can.
Remember, that a bank's service is gauged by the service it provides, not it's brochures, gimmicks, signage or billboard ads.
Evaluate the relationship when you have been with a new bank for six months. Honestly evaluate how things are going and share your conclusions with your banker. The best banking relationship is one where both parties are open and forthright and where issues can be discussed that will lead to a long-term mutually beneficial partnership for the expansion and betterment of your car wash franchise.
Check Ordering For Business Account
Why does ordering checks and replacement checks cost so much?
Because banks make a profit on the checks you order. For a little less than one-half the cost you can order your own checks and eliminate the middleman – that's the bank. Call:
Current Check 1-800-426-0822;
Checks In The Mail 1-800-733-4443;
Deluxe Checks 1-800-4DELUXE
All three firms guarantee that their checks meet industry standards. We've ordered from all three. Deluxe is faster if you're out of checks, but still have money left. They do cost an average of $4.00 more per box.
Interest Bearing Accounts
If you choose an interest bearing checking account, be sure to take a close look at the other associated fees. It may say it's a free account with no fees and that it's interest bearing, but if you fall below a pre-determined balance you may pay exorbitant fees or if you have high activity such as lots of checks written or deposited, you may be charged a fee anyway. If it's a per check fee it will undoubtedly be higher than a normal basic account.
You should not pay fees on a business savings account if fees are charged for your checking account you may seriously want to consider switching banks.
Choosing a good bank for your small business is very important, please take this initial step in your business seriously, you'll be glad you did.
Lance Winslow
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