This article was reviewed and updated on August 17, 2020 How do you apply for an EIN? The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) requires a completed Form SS-4 to receive an EIN. We can help you get your employer identification number, right here, right now. Just answer a few questions required by the IRS—the whole process takes a few minutes. Once you’ve completed the application, you can file the application online, in the mail, or fax it in yourself. If you’re… Read More

Ever wonder how your business can get government contracts? After all, the U.S. government is the largest buyer in the world, with purchases amounting to about $500 billion dollars per year. Government agencies are such a big customer of small businesses that some small businesses make their cash solely off of business from government contracts. And maybe your business can capitalize on this big small business customer, too. Here's your guide to understanding contracting opportunities with the U.S. government and how… Read More

If you’re looking to grow and sustain your business, opening a business checking account should be at the top of your to-do list. Having a business bank account that’s separate from your personal account allows you to more easily keep track of your money and process financial transactions. But finding the right bank account is crucial. Nav’s 2018 Business Banking Survey showed that 93% of business owners interact with their banking institution on a weekly basis, so choose a bank… Read More

It's no secret that a main formula for measuring the health of your business is how much cash you have in the bank. More cash coming in--and less going out--is a shared goal for businesses everywhere. Banks and lenders view the health of your business in the same manner. When you apply for business financing, most lenders will ask to look at your bank statements from the last six months in addition to your profit and loss statement and financial… Read More

This article was reviewed and updated on August 24, 2020 Small business bankruptcy is serious, but it doesn’t necessarily mean the end for your business. It does present some tough decisions and a good amount of paperwork, however, so you need to know what you’re getting yourself into. Let’s take a look at a few questions you probably have about bankruptcy.  Even if you are familiar with consumer bankruptcy, realize that, as a small business owner, business bankruptcy law may… Read More