The Best LLC Services of 2023

Person working on laptop and a form for a LLC

Whether you’re starting a new business or converting an existing company to a limited liability company (LLC), the best LLC services can make it easy to do. Typically, LLC business formation services offer assistance with paperwork, filing, and registered agent services.

We’ve gathered the top online LLC services according to what we think they do best. Just as your business has its own value props, different LLC services have their own areas of strength that can work to your advantage.

Quick View

Service

Price*

Expedited Filing

Registered Agent

Addon Services

Support

$49 to $299

On-demand or automatic depending on plan

Included in some plans

EIN registration, annual report filing, annual compliance, certificate of good standing

Phone, email, live chat

$0 to $299

Only in top tier plan

Included in all plans

EIN registration, annual report filing, trademark filing, certificate of good standing

Phone

$225

None

Included

Annual report filing, legal forms, certified copies, certificate of good standing, compliance filing

Phone, email, live chat

$79

Only in top tier plans

$299 per year

Annual report filing, legal forms, business licenses, trademark registration

Phone and email

$59 to $279

Included in all plans

Included in top tier plans ($99 per year)

Annual report filing, virtual office, compliance filing, legal and business documents

Phone, email, live chat

$39.99 per month or $99

$125

$149.99 per year (25% off for members)

Legal services, legal documents, EIN filing

Phone and email

Custom quote

Custom quote

Custom quote

Legal services, LLC formation, registered agent service, compliance filing

Phone and email

$0 to $799

Only in top tier plan

Included ($99 per year after the first year)

EIN filing, operating agreement, expedited processing, legal documents

Phone and email

*Pricing for all LLC services does not include state filing fees, which vary among states

Quick Verdict

Best Overall: ZenBusiness

ZenBusiness makes it easy for you to register your business as an LLC. There are three affordable plans and addons to choose from so you’re ready to start doing business officially.

ZenBusiness logo

ZenBusiness

$49 to $299

4.8

ZenBusiness is one of the best LLC services because it’s an affordable and easy-to-use service. You get assistance in preparing and filing for your business entity, plus you’ll get a year of annual report filing with any plan you choose. The company is a Public Benefit Corporation, which means it shares the same community goals of non-profits but is a for-profit organization.

ZenBusiness offers well-rounded services that work for many types of businesses and business owners and at affordable prices. The entry-level plan is $49, not including state filing fees. It also offers expedited and rush filing at an additional cost.

Getting started with ZenBusiness is super easy as the automated platform takes you through an operating agreement template formatted as a series of questions that allow you to select the features you’d like. The entire process is easy, understandable, and fast. To learn more about its services and pricing, read our complete review on ZenBusiness.

  • Affordable and customizable LLC operating agreement
  • Personalized dashboard for storing and managing important details
  • Offer registered agent service
  • 100% refundable (prior to being filed by the state)
  • No free plan
IncFile logo

IncFile

$0 to $299

4.6

Incfile is our choice for the most affordable LLC formation option. In other words, it’s the cheapest LLC service as they offer an entirely free LLC service (state fees are still applicable.) Unlike other LLC formation services, this option still requires quite a bit of work on your end.

However, if you opt to file without the help of LLC formation services it can be very time-consuming and generally will require a lot of research. IncFile takes a lot of the work out of it by offering guided, free LLC filing, which saves you both time and money.

In addition to free filing, they offer three LLC formation packages: silver, gold, and platinum. Price is dependent on which state your business is in and how many addons you want. One year of free registered agent service is included in all packages, however, you can opt-out.

Incfile makes it their mission to “provide superior and modern service at an unparalleled value,” and boasts more than 500,000 businesses formed. Read the IncFile review to learn more about its services.

  • Free LLC formation service
  • Registered agent included for 1-year in all packages
  • 3 packages to choose from (not including free filing)
  • Limited customer service
  • Expedited filing on top tier only
Northwest Registered Agent logo

Northwest Registered Agent

$225

4.5

You may guess by their name what Northwest Registered Agent specializes in–it’s a registered agent service that is also largely considered to be one of the best LLC formation services as well.

Northwest Registered Agent is our pick for best LLC service for small businesses because it makes privacy a priority, which can be a huge relief for small business owners who do not have access to the same privacy tools as larger companies.

All of their Northwest Registered Agent’s business is handled in-house by experts called “Corporate Guides,” rather than by third-party organizations. Unsurprisingly, this has led to positive customer reviews that highlight their excellent customer service.

The LLC filing service and registered agent service are bundled together for $225, which is convenient for many small businesses. It also provides the option to pay up-front or to make monthly payments over a period of a year.

If you opt-out of the bundle, they also provide a free do-it-yourself LLC filing guide. Read the Northwest Registered Agent review to learn more about its services.

  • Privacy is the first priority
  • Bundled package includes LLC filing and registered agent
  • Free do-it-yourself LLC filing guide
  • Not as full-featured as other LLC businesses
LegalZoom logo

LegalZoom

$79

4.3

LegalZoom is our top choice for online businesses because that’s exactly what it is. A unique online LLC formation service, this company started out entirely in the technology sector.

Unlike other popular LLC formation services, LegalZoom provides a platform and services that allows lawyers and tax experts to offer online LLC formation services. Plus, it’s the only online business formation service on this list that has a mobile app.

What it has in common with just about all of these top LLC services is that it wants to make legal help accessible to all. However, it does take notably longer than other LLC filing services, with the standard waiting time for the basic economy package being one month. Read the LegalZoom review to learn more about LegalZoom’s features and pricing.

  • $79 entry-level package (plus state fee)
  • Mobile application available
  • Legal document library available
  • Longer filing times
MyCompanyWorks logo

MyCompanyWorks

$59 to $279

4.1

If you’re focused on entrepreneurship, whether you’re working solo or have partners, MyCompanyWorks is the way to go. MyCompanyWorks primary goal is to support entrepreneurs and make things fast, easy, and affordable. It’s developed a comprehensive business entity formation guide, called the Startup Wizard checklist.

It is also known for its speedy support responses; during business hours you can expect your email or call to be returned within 20 minutes. As an entrepreneur, access to support is important and this is a huge advantage. Read our review on MyCompanyWorks to find out if it’s the right choice for you.

  • Entrepreneur-focused
  • Startup Wizard checklist
  • Quick response from the support team
  • Registered agent service in top tier only
Rocket Lawyer logo

Rocket Lawyer

$39.99 per month or $99

4.0

Rocket Lawyer is the best for online legal services because they are hyper focused on offering affordable access to legal services.

While you do have a one-time LLC filing only option, at $99.99, the Rocket Lawyer membership is a monthly fee of $39.99 that gives you access to a library of legal documents, 30-minute consultation for each new legal matter, and the ability to ask unlimited legal questions of its on-call lawyers.

As a part of membership, Rocket Lawyer also covers the cost of new registration and offers 25% off of its registered agent service fee, as well as 40% off if you need to hire a lawyer. While Rocket Lawyer stands by its quality of service, if they make an error you will receive a refund. Read the Rocket Lawyer review to learn more about its features and pricing.

  • Affordable monthly fee
  • Access to ongoing legal support through membership
  • Discounted legal counsel with membership
  • Addons for non-members can be expensive
Hashtag Legal logo

Hashtag Legal

Custom quote

3.9

While Hashtag Legal is only currently available in three states–California, New York, and New Jersey–we decided to include it as an exemplary boutique LLC service provider option. Working with a boutique company means that you can customize your LLC formation process and work closely with the service to create your optimal operating agreement.

In addition to its LLC creation service, it also offers other services including “the (un)business school,” which provides mini legal courses to help entrepreneurs learn to navigate the legal system. Pricing isn’t published on its website, so you’ll have to fill out a form to get a custom quote. Read our Hashtag Legal review to learn more about its features.

  • Customizable plan
  • Receive legal advice with to LLC filing
  • High-quality customer support
  • Pricing isn’t transparent
Inc Authority logo

Inc Authority

$0 to $799

3.8

Inc Authority is the best LLC service for round-the-clock support, but it’s also one of the oldest, most established LLC service providers.

It’s been a pillar in the business services industry for more than 30 years with excellent customer feedback, and therefore has an extensive understanding of the business formation process, but also the mental/emotional side of being a business owner. That’s why it offers 24/7 US-based online support, so when you’re laying in bed in the middle of the night thinking about your business you can get the answers you need.

Inc Authority also makes it easy to file, as it offers an online LLC service and an online incorporation service for that matter. No need to call, you can do everything online. 

What’s more, it offers free setup of a new business entity with the option to upgrade and one year of free registered agent services with all paid packages. Just remember that the state filing fee is still applicable, and when a year is up, you’ll pay a renewal fee for the registered agent service. To know more about its services, read the Inc Authority review.

  • 24/7 US-based Support
  • Free new entity-setup
  • 1-year registered agent service included in paid packages
  • Very expensive bundles

Choosing the Best LLC Service For You

We considered a number of factors to rank the best LLC services. The top business formation services should be affordable, but we also looked at overall value, qualifications, customer support, and access to legal services and software. Understanding what’s important to your business and its goals can help you to narrow down your options.​​

Pricing: You can get help with preparing your business formation documents for free, but you’ll have to file yourself, which can be time consuming and confusing. When you pay for an LLC service to help with filing, it handles the complicated parts. Keep in mind that all pricing does not include state filing fees–those are always going to be something you have to pay for. 

Value: Beyond the actual cost of a bundle or filing assistance, you should consider what else is included. Having a registered agent service is necessary for any business, so look for an LLC formation company that includes this in a low-priced plan. Getting your tax ID (EIN) is easy and free, so avoid those that charge too much to do the legwork for you. 

Customer support: The variety of customer support options is more subjective–some people prefer talking to someone over the phone, while others prefer to reach out via live chat. Choose a service that offers the kind of support you need. 

Legal services: Many of the best LLC services also offer a legal document library at no added cost, so you can easily download contract templates and other legal documents you may need. Some even give you access to lawyers for when you have questions about the legal operation of your business. This is a nice-to-have addition, but not a need-to-have if you’re simply looking to form a new business entity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Best LLC Services

Bottom Line on Best LLC Services

When you’re ready to officially form your business, you should consider choosing an LLC service to help prepare and file the paperwork for you. The process takes time and a good understanding of what states expect from you for compliance. An LLC service can take the guesswork and stress out of the process.

Gusto vs SurePayroll: Choosing the Best Online Payroll Service for Your Business

Surepayroll vs gusto

Managing the administrative side of your business is never easy. Today, there are lots of powerful tools that help keep admin tasks more feasible. An essential part of a company’s operations is how it facilitates its payroll services. Instead of outsourcing your payroll, you can save on costs and time by using an online payroll application

Two of the biggest players in payroll applications are Gusto vs SurePayroll. We compared the two to help you determine which option is the best online payroll service for you.

Gusto logo

Gusto: Best for Larger Companies With Multiple Satellite Locations

Companies that need a comprehensive payroll service may want to consider Gusto. If your business is larger with locations in multiple states, it may be the right option. Gusto gives you different pricing tiers for your payroll services, so you can customize your experience and choose which features are the most important to your company.

Gusto also allows you to incorporate your employee benefits tasks into your payroll applications, saving you time and resources. It gives businesses some different choices for paying employees and even offers payroll accounting for any workers on your team who are independent contractors.

Gusto features different pricing options depending on your needs. The least inexpensive tier starts at $39 a month plus $6 per employee. The most expensive option is $149 a month and $12 per employee. Read the Gusto review if you are interested in this tool.

  • Features automated employer tax filing
  • Provides additional applications for your human resources tasks
  • Allows employees to manage their paychecks and finances
  • No option exists yet for an app that works on mobile
  • Incompatible with popular work software like Office365
  • Does not offer a free plan or a free trial
SurePayroll logo

SurePayroll: Best for Small, Local Businesses

Companies that are smaller and need a simple but powerful payroll software solution may prefer SurePayroll. This payroll service is a great option for a single proprietor, household or another small business that has one location or a handful of local sites in one state.

SurePayroll is also more affordable than other payroll applications, allowing smaller companies to stay within a limited budget. This payroll application gives users the power to customize their experience by choosing and paying for only the essential features.

Pricing for SurePayroll is simple, with two different plans companies can choose from. The cheapest plan is $19.99 a month and $4 per employee. The most expensive plan is $29.99 per month and $5 per employee. To know more on SurePayroll features and pricing, read the review on SurePayroll.

  • Provides a powerful mobile app that can be run on your phone
  • Features after hours and weekend customer support
  • Offers a generous two-month free trial
  • Charges additional tax filing fees at the end of the year
  • Access to the employee portal website is limited
  • Unable to process payroll for international employees

Gusto vs SurePayroll Pricing & Features Comparison 

When looking at the pricing of SurePayroll vs Gusto, there is a clear difference in costs. SurePayroll comes in as the least expensive option for payroll services on a budget. Its lowest-cost membership plan is only $19.99 a month. Gusto’s cheapest plan for a business that has regular employees is $20 more at $39 per month. Both software options charge a fee for each employee in the payroll system. SurePayroll’s lowest tier adds $4 per employee, and Gusto’s cheapest plan is $6 per worker.

With a higher price point, Gusto also offers more features than SurePayroll. Both payroll programs provide direct deposit, unlimited payroll runs, automated payroll and online paystubs. Gusto also gives users the option of incorporating employee benefits applications, retirement features and onboarding tasks. Gusto’s lowest tier also includes business tax filings for state and federal agencies. Additionally, Gusto also has a contractor mode for companies that work with freelancers, pricing this service at a reasonable $6 per worker.

Membership Type

SurePayroll logo

SurePayroll Self Service

SurePayroll logo

SurePayroll Full Service

Gusto logo

Gusto Contractor

Gusto logo

Gusto Core

Gusto logo

Gusto Complete

Gusto logo

Gusto Concierge

Free Trial

Two-Month Trial

Two-Month Trial

No

No

No

No

Monthly Cost

$19.99

$29.99

None

$39

$39

$149

Per Employee Cost

$4

$5

$6

$6

$12

$12

Direct Deposit

Unlimited Pay Runs

Tax Fillings

Online Paystubs

Onboarding Details

Human Resources Tasks

Employee Benefits

No

No

No

Add-on

Add-on

Add-on

Health Savings Accounts

No

No

No

Add-on $2.50 per person

Add-on $2.50 per person

Add-on $2.50 per person

Flexible Savings Accounts

No

No

No

Add-on $4 per person

Add-on $4 per person

Add-on $4 per person

401(k) Plans

No

No

No

Add-on $49 per month and $8 per person

Add-on $49 per month and $8 per person

Add-on $49 per month and $8 per person

529 Plans

No

No

No

Add-on $6 per person

Add-on $6 per person

Add-on $6 per person

Broker Integration

No

No

No

Add-on $6 per person

Add-on $6 per person

Add-on $6 per person

Commuter Benefits

No

No

No

Add-on $4 per person

Add-on $4 per person

Add-on $4 per person

Direct Deposit

The first feature that both of these online payroll software services offer is direct deposit. Today’s employees expect to have their paychecks instantly deposited into their bank accounts instead of having to deal with the hassle of a paper check. More than 93% of the nation’s employees get paid via direct deposit, according to the American Payroll Association.

Gusto

Gusto offers automated direct deposit for each tier of membership. For Core and Contractor users, direct deposit processes in two days. The Complete and Concierge tiers process checks the next day.

SurePayroll

The lowest membership plan offers payroll processing and direct deposit in four days. Expedited service is available for an additional $7.99 per month. The higher-priced membership plan processes direct deposit checks in two days.

Tax Filing

Payroll taxes are one of the biggest hassles for small business owners. It’s vital to calculate your employer taxes accurately or you could be subject to heavy penalties. Both software programs offer different levels of tax filing support.

Gusto

Gusto’s plans all offer tax filing calculations and support except for the Contractor membership. Contractor workers aren’t subject to employer-withheld taxes. Gusto’s other membership plans provide automated tax filings for federal and state agencies.

SurePayroll

SurePayroll only offers tax calculations and filings for its Full Service plan. Self Service members must do their own tax calculations and filings. If your company must deal with more than one state, there is an additional $9.99 a month fee. Ohio and Pennsylvania businesses must also add $9.99 a month for local taxes.

Human Resources Tools

Paying your employees is only one part of effective management. These applications also provide other useful tools that help your human resources department or provide a busy entrepreneur with support if there aren’t human resources staff on site.

Gusto

Gusto offers the most bang for your buck when it comes to talent management. Managers can use the software in their hiring, with offer letters and onboarding paperwork. Complete and Concierge levels also allow employees to ask for PTO, sign documents and complete feedback surveys.

SurePayroll

The Self Service plan for SurePayroll is limited with no tools for hiring or managing workers. Full Service subscribers can access staffing documents, such as required forms and posters for your staff. There is also an advisor with whom members can discuss human resources issues.

Application Interface

Applications for your business also need to be easy to use. Managers and employees prefer software that can be accessed anywhere, such as on smartphones, computers or tablets. Here is how each software package stacks up.

Gusto

Gusto has a better user experience for managers using computers instead of mobile devices. The desktop version of the application features a simple dashboard and convenient features. If you want to run payroll from your phone, you can go to the mobile site. There isn’t a dedicated app yet for this program.

SurePayroll

When it comes to interfaces between Gusto vs SurePayroll, SurePayroll may have an advantage. The app is easy to use with an intuitive dashboard. The software is available via a mobile app that can be downloaded onto most devices, allowing managers to run payroll from anywhere.

Third-Party Software Integration

Since payroll is part of an organization’s overall finances, most users want to have a seamless integration between their payroll service and other essential business software, such as accounting and project management tools. Here’s how SurePayroll vs Gusto handles third-party software integration.

Gusto

Gusto has a clear advantage here in third-party software integration. Gusto integrates easily with accounting, time clock, point of sale and business operations software programs. Not all programs work with Gusto, so it’s important to check each software combination for usability.

SurePayroll

SurePayroll has the capability to integrate with two types of software. If you want to link your accounting software to SurePayroll, you’ll have to pay an additional $4.99 per month. For time clock software integration, it’s an added $9.99 a month.

Customer Service

Even with the best features, an effective software program isn’t very useful without great customer service. Check out how Gusto vs SurePayroll provides customer service and support.

Gusto

Gusto provides live customer support during regular business hours, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. PST. Support is offered on the phone or via live chat. Concierge members have a separate dedicated team of support.

SurePayroll

SurePayroll offers more customer service hours for its users. Its phone and live chat support are staffed Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in both English and Spanish.

Customer Reviews

When you’re trying to decide which payroll software works best for your needs, it helps to check out reviews from other customers. Here are some details on what customers are saying about these two programs.

Gusto

Online reviews of Gusto often describe loving the fact that the application is an all-in-one solution for payroll and HR tasks. The interface and online tools to run payroll are simple and require very little of a learning curve. Some things that Gusto may need to improve are its wait times for phone and chat customer service. Its benefits add-ons are also not highly rated by some customers. Average reviews are 4.3 stars out of five from G2 and 4.7 stars from Capterra.

SurePayroll

SurePayroll customers most often praise the company’s affordability and easy-to-use app. Customer service is sometimes uneven, even though its support is staffed longer hours than Gusto. The most positive reviews come from small business operators. Average reviews are 4.3 stars out of five from G2 and 4.2 stars from Capterra.

Alternative Payroll Software Options

Besides using Gusto vs SurePayroll, business operators can also choose from some other popular software packages. Here are additional programs that can help a company process its payroll.

This option is great for small business operators who also use QuickBooks accounting software. Businesses that are familiar with the QuickBooks interface will be able to instantly start using the software without a lot of research and tutorials.

Monthly subscriptions run from $45 to $125. You will also pay from $4 to $10 per employee for this software package.

  • Makes tax filings and other financial details simple
  • Easy app use, especially for mobile businesses
  • Offers an excellent interface
  • Users report glitches with the computer and mobile application
  • Wait times to speak to a customer service representative are lengthy
  • The pricing is not affordable for small-time business operators
Paychex logo

Paychex Flex

From $39

Startup businesses that are in the early stages and plan to expand may benefit from the Paychex payroll software. Restaurants and multi-state companies may also find this software helpful.

The standard base service costs $39 per month and $5 per employee. Upgraded service plans must be individually quoted by a salesperson. To know more about this software, read the Paychex review.

  • Provides helpful employee self-service tools
  • Offers payroll via debit card to employees
  • Features Employee Assistance Programs to workers as an included service
  • No support for companies that use independent contractors
  • Time tracking, year-end tax forms and other tasks cost extra
  • The software can be slow and glitchy

Businesses that sell items to customers and use Square’s point-of-sale software may opt for Square Payroll. This solution provides seamless integration between the products.

Square’s monthly fee is $35 plus $5 per employee on your payroll. For contractor workers only, you can pay $5 per person. Read our Square Payroll review here if this software interests you.

  • Allows an upgraded instant and next-day payroll processing option
  • Features an affordable and simple pricing plan
  • Simple app and interface for ease of use
  • Costs can go up as a business hires more people 
  • Included standard payroll processing is four days
  • HR tasks included with the app are weak

Bottom Line: Gusto vs SurePayroll

The bottom line is that Gusto may be the better option for businesses that need more than just a simple, basic payroll service. Its HR tools and flexible options for add-on services make it the clear winner. The option to use Gusto for contractors without investing in the monthly fee also makes it a better solution for most business operators. 

For pricing between Gusto vs SurePayroll, SurePayroll is more economical for smaller companies. Whichever software solution your company chooses, you can improve your efficiency and time management with one of these products.

Best CRM for Ecommerce or Online Businesses

Person inputting card details in an online shopping platform

We understand that customers are the lifeblood of any ecommerce company. Fortunately, customer relationship management can significantly increase online sales (CRM).

Using unique marketing techniques, use the Best CRM for Ecommerce software to help you generate new and repeat customers.

Quick View

Software

Price

Contact Managing

Workflow Automation

Interaction Tracking

Reporting and Analytics

$25 to $300 per user per month

Complete customer information, social media insights

Automatic approvals, drag and drop simplicity

Can schedule tasks or events, view conversations with each client

Tableau analytics platform for finding insights

Act crm logo

Act

$12 to $50 per user per month

Leads through marketing workflows, syncs with calendars and email

Email marketing programs, interactive templates

Keep tabs on current clients, monitor lead pipeline

Asset and website tracking, reporting tools

Free to $52 per user per month,

CRM Plus $57 per user per month

Engage across multiple channels

Automate processes with simple drag and drop tools

Monitor within the platform and social media integration

See how your ecommerce site performs at every stage

$12.50 to $99 per user per month

Use email marketing campaigns to drive prospects to clients

Customizable email templates, triggers to automate processes

View pipeline progress and communications

Campaigns pull in reports and insights

Free to $3,200 per month

Customized communications that drive sales

Visual automation builder

System logs interactions between employees and clients

Traffic analytics, custom reporting

Marketing from $1,500 per month

Connect sellers with potential consumers through their preferred communication channels

Can automate inefficient tasks

Engage customers in real-time

AI-driven recommendations from insights and analytics

Quick Verdict

Best Overall – Salesforce. Salesforce combines the best of CRM software with tools to assist online businesses of all sizes. Even at the entry level, contact and lead management tools are available, and the package includes insights and analytics to keep customers coming back.

6 Best CRMs for Ecommerce or Online Businesses

Without further ado, here are our picks for the best CRM solutions for ecommerce or online businesses currently on the market.

Salesforce logo

Salesforce – Best Overall CRM for Ecommerce

$25 to $300

4.4

Salesforce is a massive customer relationship management system with plans for businesses of all sizes. The entry-level plan, which costs $25 per user per month, includes contact management tools as well as access to the Salesforce mobile app.

If you want to use marketing automation to make your ecommerce website more efficient, you’ll need to spend at least $150 per month. Salesforce makes it simple to automate even the most complex sales process automation steps at this price point. Only the highest tier provides 24/7 customer support if problems arise.

Customer relationships are where ecommerce CRM software really shines. Salesforce has the marketing campaigns to keep repeat customers coming back where an ecommerce business thrives on them. The CRM solution even uses social media tools to share insights and fuel individual marketing strategies.

You can use Salesforce’s Tableau analytics platform to identify areas of opportunity in your online business as needed. Salesforce is the best CRM software available, providing all of the tools required to retain clients and increase online sales from a single centralized platform.

  • Included mobile app.
  • Tableau analytics platform.
  • Social media marketing.
  • Scales well from small businesses to large.
  • Limited support on all but the highest tier of service.
Act crm logo

Act! – Best Ecommerce CRM for Marketing Workflows

$12 to $50

4.1

Act!’s ecommerce CRM system focuses on digital marketing features to engage potential customers and move them through the sales funnel. Even small businesses can benefit from offerings as low as $12 per user per month.

To take advantage of automated sales and marketing processes, teams will need to upgrade to a higher tier. These sales automation tools allow your CRM software to send marketing emails on your behalf while you focus on more important tasks. There are also hundreds of email marketing templates and sales pipeline management insights available.

Furthermore, Act! is comprehensive in terms of customer data tracking, allowing you to see the best ways to keep users plugged into your online store. Every CRM system in Act! is intended to integrate with other apps so that you always have all of the sales tools you require. Act! is also made possible by these tools. The best real estate CRM.

Act!’s CRM for ecommerce system provides powerful sales and marketing tools at a low enough cost that even small ecommerce businesses can use it.

  • Mobile app.
  • Several integration options.
  • Strong customer support.
  • Prices that scale with business needs.
  • Additional cost for advanced marketing automation tools.
Zoho CRM logo

Zoho – Best Free Ecommerce CRM Software

Free to $57

4.2

Zoho offers CRM software solutions for both small and large ecommerce platforms. At the high end, Zoho CRM plus has the most features, and a free version is available for new ecommerce businesses.

Customer segmentation is used in ecommerce CRM software so that you can categorize and stay on top of customer behavior at all times. In addition to basic communication tools, Zoho CRM can connect with potential customers via social media.

Zoho has inventory management, which is free at the basic level, so you can keep an eye on what’s in storage without having to be there. This is one of several add-ons that can raise the price if you require something in addition to the base package.

Within Zoho’s CRM features, you can see which tools are providing the greatest return on investment and which are simply costing you money. The CRM system even tells you which keyword led the customer to your ecommerce store.

For startups or small e-commerce businesses that can’t afford software right now, Zoho is the best free CRM software option on the market. For companies willing to take the risk, comprehensive ecommerce CRM software packages.

  • Mobile app.
  • Free inventory management for one warehouse.
  • Several plan options.
  • Free trial available.
  • Add-ons can drive up the cost.
Pipedrive logo

Pipedrive – Best Ecommerce CRM for Integrations

$12.50 to $99

3.8

Pipedrive takes pride in being ridiculously simple to use, with its easily navigable dashboards and sharp email marketing tools. Pipedrive integrates with over 275 other tools to enhance these CRM systems.

There are a slew of customizable email templates and automation tools built into the ecommerce CRM software to help you streamline your marketing platform. The CRM solution saves communications and pipeline progress for each client as you work with them.

Despite the CRM solution’s low cost, ecommerce businesses will likely find the available tools lacking. While the next tier costs twice as much, it includes several CRM tools such as automated workflows to help ecommerce businesses run more efficiently.

Pipedrive collects and reports data from your ecommerce business’s email marketing campaigns for quick review. These analytics also provide insights into areas where your online store may need to improve for greater success.

Pipedrive’s CRM tool expands on an intuitive user dashboard by integrating with other apps that your ecommerce business relies on for success.

  • Simple user interface.
  • Hundreds of integrations.
  • Strong sales management options.
  • Several customizable areas.
  • The cheapest plan is quite short on ecommerce features.
HubSpot logo

HubSpot – Best CRM for Large Ecommerce Businesses

Free to $3,200

4.1

Hubspot CRM may be pricey for small businesses, but it is one of the best CRMs for ecommerce options for larger businesses. There is a free plan available, but it includes HubSpot branding on all communications you send.

Large businesses with their own customer support departments can use HubSpot to handle interactions from a large client base efficiently. Teams can communicate with clients and each other from within HubSpot, so no information is lost to cyberspace.Large businesses with their own customer service departments can use HubSpot to efficiently handle interactions from a large client base. Teams can communicate with clients and with one another within HubSpot, ensuring that no information is lost in cyberspace.

Hubspot combines marketing automation and visual cues in a user-friendly format. To maximize customer return potential, ecommerce businesses can tailor these custom workflows to the needs of their online stores. The CRM service also includes built-in web forms to eliminate any uncertainty about what clients require.

The ecommerce CRM software uses traffic analytics to show where sales are coming from. You can create custom reports that only follow the information you want to see.

HubSpot’s CRM solutions are undeniably expensive, but the breadth of tools available to large businesses is unparalleled.

  • Omni-channel automated marketing applications.
  • Built-in collaboration tools between team members.
  • Free option available.
  • Visual automation builder.
  • Sales and marketing platforms each have unique costs.
Microsoft Dynamics logo

Microsoft Dynamics – Best AI-Driven Ecommerce CRM

From $1,500

4.1

Microsoft enters the fray with Dynamics, its own ecommerce CRM software. Dynamics distinguishes itself by utilizing Microsoft’s artificial intelligence to provide business-specific insights.

The ecommerce CRM solution allows you to connect with customers on their preferred platform, whether it’s social media or another. Even better, you can chat with customers in real time right from the Dynamics CRM system.

A plethora of automation features enable users to eliminate time-consuming, repetitive tasks that a computer can handle more efficiently.

All of these impressive features come at a cost, and Dynamics offers two different plans for its sales and marketing software. Marketing software costs $1,500 per user per month, and capitalizing on sales costs an additional $65 per month. Many other features of the CRM solution only add to the cost.

Microsoft Dynamics adds artificial intelligence software to an already impressive CRM platform. This solution is not cheap, but the enhanced analytics can identify issues that would otherwise go unnoticed.

  • Integrates well with other Microsoft apps.
  • Uses artificial intelligence for analytics.
  • In-app collaboration tools.
  • Ability to engage customers in real-time.
  • Pricey software.
  • Limited to Windows machines.

How To Choose CRM Software for Ecommerce Software or Online Businesses

When perusing ecommerce CRM systems, consider these points before making a purchase:

  • Your customer base.
  • Pricing.
  • Features.
  • Integrations.
  • Customer service.

Consider Your Customer Base

Customers are critical to ecommerce success, and knowing who your customers are is half the battle. Once you’ve identified your target client base, make sure the CRM software you choose allows you to reach out to and market to them.

Look at Pricing

While you often get what you pay for, some more expensive ecommerce CRM solutions simply provide more than a startup or small business requires. Determine your budget’s limits so you can have realistic expectations about what you can afford.

Check the Features

Consider the features you already have access to and those you can’t live without as you plan to add CRM software to your existing list of applications. Some CRM packages charge separately for marketing and sales. Others, at lower price points, do not include automation tools.

Integrations

If you already have software for sales, marketing, or project management, it’s always a good idea to find a CRM solution that integrates with it. Having to deal with ten different apps is inconvenient, but working on them all from one location can be beneficial.

Customer Service

Who will you contact if things don’t work as they should? Check the CRM software’s customer service plans to ensure someone will be available when you need them. Many plans do not provide any assistance for free or entry-level software.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Best CRM for Ecommerce

Final Thoughts on Best CRM for Ecommerce

It can be difficult to keep track of what consumers are thinking in an ever-changing world. Customer relationship management tools can significantly improve client acquisition and retention.

For all of the tools it provides, we believe Salesforce is the best ecommerce CRM software. If Salesforce doesn’t speak to you, we’re confident that one of the other CRM software options on this list will.

The 20 Best Project Management Blogs to Follow

Best Project Management Blogs to Follow

The world of project management is forever changing. From new software to resource planning to technological development, keeping up to date with relevant blogs and resources is critical. We’ve listed some of the best blogs for staying aware of ideas and updates in the industry. Find your new favorite project management blog below.

Interested in the best project management tools out there? You should check out this list:

 

1. Project Management

Project management institute website

As the name might suggest, Project Management is your first port of call for an overview of everything project management-related. The website contains numerous helpful features, many of which are listed in the drop-down menus. These include everything from information about affiliate programs and integration to community discussion spaces. 

This site is run by the Project Management Institute. They’ve been working since 1969 in seeking to demystify and uncomplicate the many different aspects of project management which, inevitably, can become difficult to navigate. 

The fact that this site encourages a large amount of participation and discussion within the community is very beneficial for people at all levels of project management. There is space to learn and share advice or opinions. The opportunity to attend webinars and download resources for project managing is another useful feature. 

2. Eye On the Workforce

Blog: Eye on the workforce

Eye on the Workforce is a sub-blog operating off ProjectManagement.com, written by Joe Wynne. He has been producing content since 2000 for people in the project management profession. As the name suggests, this blog specializes in workforce management, which Wynne believes to be a key component in project success. 

The posts on this project management blog specialize in tips for managing and creating a sense of community within the workforce that improves productivity, morale, and profit. He provides a lot of depth in his posts on this topic, ranging from employee communication to human resources and leadership tactics. There’s something here for every project manager.

Joe Wynne is a project management professional himself, having worked in many different areas of the industry. The variety of work he has done reflects the plethora of experience he divulges in his informative blog posts. 

3. PMStudent

Screenshot of PMStudent website

The blogger at PMStudent aims to teach and inform, whether you already have experience in the project management field or you’re just learning about the five project management phases. To be able to learn something new or take away information that you will use at work is something many of us take for granted when we aren’t actively engaging with blogs and resources like this. 

PMStudent offers posts on a range of topics, from building and maintaining a good relationship with your team to project strategy and software advice. The scope of writing means there is something everyone can take away, allowing everyone to grow in the field. 

The blog is run by Margaret Meloni, who focuses on IT Project Management and leadership. She seeks to build a community through sharing skills and ideas that everyone in the industry can benefit from. She also teaches project management skills.

4. The Girl’s Guide to Project Management

Rebel's guide to project management homepage

The Girl’s Guide to Project Management came about as a result of the lack of women who have historically spoken and advised others on project management. The blog was created by Elizabeth Harrin, who has over twenty years of experience in the industry. 

The purpose of the blog is to teach skills that are essential in project management, on a wide variety of topics, including responsibility, networking, task delegation, and tools like Agile. There are over 1,000 articles on the blog, written over the past decade, and the community which has grown from the blog means there is plenty you can do to grow.

As well as the numerous skills to be gleaned from this blog, there are a variety of workshops and templates available to help you organize tasks effectively and hone your skills as a project manager.

5. Simpletivity

Simpletivity

You’ll find Simpletivity specializes in several particular aspects of the project management field, namely efficiency, productivity, and time management (ever heard of scope creep?). Run by Scott Friesen, Simpletivity aims to improve skills like focus and simplify the tasks of a project manager on a day-to-day basis. 

The resources available through the Simpletivity blog enable you to cut down on a lot of administrative details, which may become a hassle in any project management role. By slimming downtime spent on producing work behind the scenes, you can simply focus on what matters.

By utilizing Scott’s time-saving tips, you’ll undoubtedly be able to improve the productivity of yourself and your whole workforce. Creating effective, standard practices in the office is a great way of maximizing your output and minimizing excess tasks, which is what Simpletivity is all about.

6. Helping Project Managers Help Themselves

Helping Project Managers Help Themselves

Here’s another offshoot of ProjectManagement.com: Helping Project Managers Help Themselves. It’s run by the highly experienced Lonnie Pacelli, with over 35 years spent in the industry. That time has been used working for companies like Microsoft as well as working for independent consulting groups and companies. 

Pacelli aims to provide practical information for project managers, the kind of information that you can retain and use when you need it. These tips revolve around communication and seamless collaboration of projects within teams, as well as transferable leadership skills surrounding many aspects of project execution. 

This blog is imperative reading for nuggets of wisdom you’ll apply in the long term. Pacelli’s approach to project management is dynamic and covers many spheres of the industry, much like his own experience. Learning good leadership can be as much about gaining your own experience as it is about taking advice from others.

7. Projects at Work

ProjectsAtWork blog

Another sub-blog of ProjectManagement.com, the purpose of Projects at Work is to explore the dynamism required to overcome challenges in project management and produce more effective results. Run by Aaron Smith, this blog for project managers is all about learning the hurdles of the job and finding ways around them. 

Smith is a writer who focuses on project management skills after 25 years of experience in editing and publishing. Having worked for a variety of areas within his industry, he knows the common challenges of managing projects inside out and explores these problems in his blog. 

This blog is full of interviews and advice pieces about practical issues and ideas within project management that can help you to think further about coordinating a team, arranging resources, and creating outstanding results. What’s great about this blog is how it extrapolates PM problems into real-world ideas and creates food for thought about industry challenges.

8. PM Network

PM Network blog

PM Network is another resource that has grown from the Project Management Institute, sourcing advice, and information from some of the most informed and experienced people in the industry. This journal is published monthly and contains a lot of really helpful advice. 

What’s so great about PM Network is how it draws on so many different voices from within project management, providing content now only about practical challenges in the industry but modern theory and cultural ideas that ultimately have a big impact on work, whether you work in construction, marketing or advertising. 

But PM Network doesn’t stop at just articles. It has a database chock-full of downloadable content, tools, and webinars that will keep you informed and up to date about everything going on in project management. The resources available go back over a decade, as a result covering every imaginable base within the job. 

9. NTask Blog

Ntask website

In project management, NTask is known best for its software, but there is also a very helpful blog available on their website with additional resources for management, regardless of your experience level or industry. This is one of the best-organized blogs of its kind, with many categories and fields of information. 

What kind of information are you looking for? NTask offers articles on productivity, collaboration, resource management, and multi-project management. As well as this, it is certainly well-designed and highly readable in layout and design. 

The articles on this project management blog often act as handy guides to different areas of project management, they are informative and clear. The clarity of the writing would lend itself well to beginners and provides plenty of introductory knowledge about topics like software and integration, which aren’t always super accessible. 

10. The Lazy Project Manager

The Lazy Project Manager's Blog

The Lazy Project Manager blog is one of the most informative out there, not only in terms of the content produced, but the resources easily found within blog posts. Curated by Peter Taylor, who has a wealth of experience in the project management role, it’s understandable that this blog is so full of valuable information.

Content on the blog spans back over a decade, covering the basics of the project management role to more complex issues in business and management altogether. Peter Taylor’s message revolves around the idea of how to be an effective manager; finding your role satisfying, working well with a team, and utilizing the best tools to maximize your success and output. 

More recently, Taylor has converted a lot of his knowledge into widely available books, but this does not detract from the sheer volume of information available on this blog for free which will undoubtedly help even the most seasoned project managers overcome hurdles at work. 

11. Project Management Basics

Project Management Basics

You’ll find Project Management Basics provides lots of in-depth information about the realities of working in project management as well as useful advice and tools that span many aspects of the job. Much of the content is written by Dmitriy Nizhebetskiy, who has over ten years of experience in IT project management, and who has founded his course on the subject. 

Nizhebetskiy’s approach focuses on his own experiences, rather than research or academia. He prides himself on providing relatable and realistic glimpses of what makes a good project manager and how leadership skills can be gained. 

Examples of his posts include real examples of what the role of a project manager involves and interview samples to help you advance yourself into a managerial role. As well as educating on different approaches to the job, he also provides advice on tools like Agile which can maximize your output as a manager.

12. Easy in Theory, Difficult in Practice

Easy in Theory, Difficult in Practice

Easy in Theory, Difficult in Practice is a blog that specializes in maximizing your chances of success in project management. It is run by Kiron Bondale, who writes weekly posts on the site, musing on a variety of topics and conundrums that come with being a project manager. 

Unlike some sites, this blog is arranged in a more personal, conversational way. This makes the page thoroughly accessible but has less of the professional tone that many project management sites have. Like it or loathe it, this site is based on Bondale’s plethora of experiences managing many projects, and he is a great source of wisdom. 

Bondale often writes on the topic of Agile, which is very useful for project managers. As well as this, he shares personal advice about productivity and resource managing, portfolios, and the psychology behind project management jobs.

13. Gina Abudi

Gina Abudi blog

This site aims to share knowledge that applies to a wide variety of industries and clients that are dealt with in project management. Based on her work in Abudi Consulting, Gina Abudi’s blog details wisdom from her personal experiences in management, and Gina is a frequent speaker within forums where she also shares her knowledge. 

Abudi has over 25 years of experience in various roles within project management, for organizations ranging from non-profits to global companies, she is a member of several associations within business. Clearly, her experience cannot be understated. 

With over a decade of advice available on this blog for project managers, there’s information to be gleaned about the realities of project management that can help managers and team members alike. Abudi focuses on producing intelligent strategies that work to produce results around client satisfaction, team productivity, and return on investment.

14. The Digital Project Manager

DPM website

The Digital Project Manager site is full of resources, some free and some paid, but their archive of articles is especially helpful. Spanning a number of topics and issues, this blog is especially informative, and the layout is crisp, making it easy to navigate and very accessible. 

The articles on this site come from several contributors and all have something fresh to say about project management, no matter the angle they take. The blog also spans an impressive variety of topics, from career development to communication, time management to stakeholders, risk management to methodologies, and Agile processes

Undoubtedly, this is a one-stop location for so many project management queries, and the scope of writing and topics makes it one of the most useful and diverse spaces for writing on management across the internet. The resources here are invaluable for new and experienced managers alike.

15. Musings on Project Management

Musings on Project Management - a blog

Musings on Project Management is a more abstract and personal blog about the challenges of project management, but a super valuable page, nonetheless. The writer, John Goodpasture has been managing projects for decades, resulting in reams of advice to share with his audience. In fact, this blog spans more than a decade of regular posts on the topic. 

For any people new to the job or looking for career advancement advice, this project management blog also provides a very helpful and extensive definition of what project management means and how interesting the work can be. 

Goodpasture may be one of the most knowledgeable people writing content on project management today, his writing is always fresh and engaging, and above all, his posts remain regular. This blog is not one to be missed if you’re interested in Agile, risk management, or more general musings on the realities of project management industries today.

16. Finding Marbles

Finding marbles website

Unlike many of the blogs on this list, Finding Marbles is no longer updated. Despite that, it’s definitely worth a peruse for relevant information about project management, especially Agile, Lean, and Scrum methodologies. The site is run by Corinna Baldauf, a German web developer with a degree in computer science. 

Baldauf has a lot of experience with very popular methodologies. As a result, her blog posts are definitely worth reading. She offers advice on when these systems work, and what to do when they don’t. She also has more general advice for working in project management that is friendly and relatable. 

If you’re looking for valuable information about developing a project management career concerning methodologies like Agile, Lean, and Scrum, you need to look no further than Finding Marbles for the answers. 

17. PMHut

Project management hut website

PMHut offers a lot of practical articles detailing lists and advice on making the right choices as a project manager, whether that be choices in the correct technology and software or more general management decisions regarding teams and resources. 

It remains ambiguous whether this blog is going to be updated or not, but the information which remains available is still highly valuable. There’s relatively up-to-date advice about quality tools for project management and a helpful guide for choosing software for project management tasks that considers plenty of the relevant decision factors. 

Although this is a more simplistic blog and less sophisticated than many of the other ones out there, the information remains astute and well thought out. This is an especially ideal blog for anyone new to project management software solutions. 

18. PMI Global Insights

PMI Global Insights blog

The Project Management Institute’s Global Insights blog is an overarching space featuring some of the most well-known names in the project management world. Here, these experienced writers and speakers share insights about a variety of issues common in management. 

You probably won’t find another blog that contains so much experience and influence in the whole sphere of project management. With dozens of contributors sharing their wisdom and advice, the content spans software, metrics, HR, resource management, and leadership lessons.  

While some blogs explore the insights of just one experienced project manager, the scope of the guests writing on this blog is something to be admired. Whether you’re looking for something specific or mere life lessons from people in management, you’ll find what you need when you look here. 

19. Project Bliss

Project Bliss website

Leigh Espy’s Project Bliss is a blog that approaches a variety of topics within project management, it remains regularly updated and has plenty of essential resources. She aims to make the journey into management easier for other people, exploring her career along the way. 

What’s so impressive about this blog is how informative it is, and how much knowledge is shared by one woman on her project management journey. It’s informative and helpful without being hard to take in. Throughout writing the blog, Espy has covered dozens of useful management topics that encroach on many different industries. 

As well as the variety of article topics presented in the blog, there are also resources available, like downloads and free templates, perfect for those relatively new to project management and those looking for specific advice on methodologies and systems of management.

20. ProjectSmart

Project Smart website

ProjectSmart is a website with dozens of resources about the development of insights in project management. Their clean interface is easily navigated, and their articles are very easy to come by. They’ve been providing access to project management information since 2000 and are easily one of the most reputable sources in the business.

By way of articles, they have an impressive archive spanning almost 15 years, and you can search by specific categories to find information that you need. As well as this, they offer tools and white papers that aim to inform on plenty of valuable topics. 

All articles on ProjectSmart are quality assured, so you know that what you’re getting is the right information. This is undoubtedly an invaluable resource, especially for those more experienced or managing highly professional projects. 

Bottom Line on Project Management Blogs

Project management blogs are an excellent way of gaining awareness for tools and techniques in the industry, growing your knowledge as a manager or a team member. Because industries like marketing and advertising are so dependent on developments in technology, finding accurate sources of information is essential to stay ahead. 

Square Payroll Review: Pros, Cons, and Alternatives

Square Payroll review

Square Payroll is an online payroll service specially designed for small businesses. It offers an easy way to manage employees’ paychecks along with seamless timecard imports, automated tax filings, and a range of other helpful features. 

We’ve thoroughly researched the payroll processing software market on your part to bring you a comprehensive Square Payroll review. Keep scrolling to learn more about how Square’s online payroll service matches up with some of the best payroll software out there. 

Our Verdict 

Square Payroll is best for small businesses that hire hourly wage contractors only. Although it works for both salaried employees and contractors, there’s no base fee for the contractor-only plan. It offers many useful features including healthcare and retirement benefits syncing, seamless integrations with other tools, and a mobile app for on-the-go payments. 

Square Payroll should work perfectly for you if you already use Square POS – it integrates nicely to make employee payments much easier. That said, this payroll software is not for large businesses. It doesn’t have the scalability and customization needed for large-scale operations.

  • Low pricing
  • Easy to use
  • Integrates with other tools
  • Basic HR functionality only
  • Slow customer support
  • Basic payroll reports

Square Payroll at a Glance

Square Payroll is a subsidiary of Square, a company offering a range of business management solutions from POS systems to payment processing solutions. It’s a US-based payroll software and works in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

You can access the online payroll service through its web portal and mobile app. If you’re a small- to medium-sized enterprise, you will probably find all the features you need to streamline employee payments with Square. The service is fairly easy to use with an intuitive user interface that you can get familiar with pretty quickly.

Overview website page of Square payroll

Square Payroll is one of the more reasonably priced software solutions. It has very competitive prices starting at just $35/month plus $5 per person paid for the Employees+Contractors plan. Whereas the Contractor-only plan only costs $5 per person paid without any base fee. Square offers relatively cheaper prices compared to alternatives. 

Apart from other software solutions like Square, the service is integrated with a range of other management tools including QuickBooks, Beekeeper, TSheets, and Deputy. If you’re looking for an all-in-one payment processing software that runs payroll, calculates accurate taxes according to your location, and files them automatically, go for Square Payroll. 

Who Should Use Square Payroll?

Square Payroll is a perfect match for small businesses, especially those that work with contractors only. If you already use Square Point of Sale, your search also ends here because you won’t find a better match than this. This vendor is not for you if you’re a large business and want to scale or customize the solution. 

Pricing 

Square offers only two pricing plans for its online payroll processing service: Pay Employees & Contractors plan starting at $40 per month and Pay Contractors only plan starting at $5 per month per person.

Square payroll logo

Plan

Pay Employees & Contractors

Pay Contractors Only

Price

$35 monthly subscription + $5/month/per person paid

$5/month/per person paid

Full-service payroll

Unlimited payroll runs

Automatic tax filing

End-of-year tax forms

W-2 and 1099-NEC

1099-NEC

Pay via check, direct deposit, and Square’s cash app

Direct deposit time

4 days

4 days

Square POS, QuickBooks Integrations

New hire reporting

Live support for account setup

Square has a straightforward and transparent pricing structure so it’s easy to ascertain what it will cost. Although it gets pricey as you pay more people, it gives you certainty with expenses. 

Competitors like ADP and PayCor, don’t publish their pricing structures so can never tell what they’ll cost compared to other options, it’s also relatively affordable. Because Square doesn’t lock you into a contract, there’s no added cost if you need to cancel. Square also allows businesses to pause their subscription without a cost, which could be a good fit for seasonal businesses.

Square Payroll Features

Ease of Use

It’s easy to navigate to different tools when using Square Payroll. It has a simple design with all the tools you need easily accessible from the home page. Still, if you get stuck for some reason, the knowledge base is always there to help you get the job done. 

Square payroll website homepage

After signing up, you have to enter your businesses’ details including tax information and bank account, among others. Next, you have to enter your employees’ or contractors’ details. This can be a daunting task but Square lets you send an invite to every worker so they can fill out tax and deposit details on their own. 

Full-Service Payroll Processing

Website page of square payroll

This payroll service aims to give you a one-stop solution to pay workers easily. It will take care of everything from processing payments, filing taxes, printing paychecks, to direct deposits. If you’re using Square POS, you can also import tips and commissions automatically. 

Square Payroll makes your life easier as a business owner. All you have to do is import time cards from other tools or enter the hours clocked by each employee, choose a payment method and it’ll do the rest. 

The vendor supports monthly, semi-monthly, weekly, and bi-weekly payment frequencies. Square is not the fastest service as your employees or contractors get paid four business days after the payroll is processed. For instance, if you run the payroll on a Friday, workers may have to wait until the next Thursday to get paid.

Automatic Tax Filing

This feature gives you accurate and timely-filed taxes and takes away yet another time-consuming task. The service takes all relevant data for every employee into account to calculate state and federal taxes, withhold them and send them to the right agency. It also handles quarterly and year-end tax forms like the W-2 and 1099-NEC.

Flexible Payment Options

Square payroll's payment options

Square Payroll lets you pay employees and contractors via direct deposits, checks, and the Square Cash App. Although direct deposits take four days to get processed and reach recipients, you can get them paid early if you and your employees use the vendor’s Cash app at no extra charge. Employees can also request an advance paycheck through the Cash app and receive up to 50% of their pay (maximum of $200).

Square POS, QuickBooks, and other Integrations

The integrations the online payroll service offers are one of the best features it’s got. Currently, it’s integrated with the following tools: 

  • Square Point of Sale
  • Square for Retail
  • QuickBooks
  • TSheets
  • Homebase
  • Hubworks Hostel Management
  • Deputy
  • Beekeeper
  • TrackTime24

Benefits Management

square payroll review: benefits of square

The benefits management feature takes care of employees’ health insurance, retirement funds, pre-tax spending, and even workers’ compensation insurance. This means you don’t need an HR specialist on the team to manage employee benefits. 

Square Payroll lets you choose the right benefits plans for your business, and once you’ve made that decision, you can invite employees to enroll on their own. It will handle everything moving forward including keeping records and deducting premiums from paychecks. 

Square Payroll Mobile App

Mobile app view of Square

The Square Payroll Mobile app helps the vendor stand out among other services. It comes with both plans and offers almost the same features as the web version. You won’t be able to access the complete set of features but the mobile app is pretty useful for on-the-go payment processing. 

The app is a great way for employees to stay updated with their payroll process. It lets employees clock in and out on timecards, file taxes, and view pay stubs.

Alternatives to Square Payroll

There are quite a few alternative options on the market if you think Square is not for you. But before you look for other services, please note that free payroll software won’t be able to offer you the same features as paid ones. That said, take a look at some of the best alternatives to Square:

Gusto – All-in-One HR Solution

Gusto is an HR and payroll service that works well for SMBs. It carries a comprehensive set of services including benefits management, HR, and compliance functions. It offers quicker payment processing than Square. Starting at $39 + $6/per person paid, it’ll cost you slightly higher than Square Payroll.  Read the Gusto review to know more about its features and plans.

Rippling – Best for Mid-Sized Businesses

If you’re a mid-sized business, Rippling might be a good option for you. It offers a range of HR and payroll features to simplify your personnel management. It offers plenty of integrations too so you can sync it with other management services to streamline payments. Rippling has better reporting capabilities than Square, making it a great choice if you want to analyze salary trends. It has a quote-based pricing system but you can expect it to start at $8/month/per person paid. 

Patriot – Best for Startups

If you’re looking for a payroll service for your startup and you want to get the best features while staying within your budget, Patriot might be the one for you. Patriot offers the most affordable plans on the market. Its Basic Payroll plan starts at $10/month + $4/per person paid. However, you won’t be able to access the automatic tax filing feature with this plan and would have to upgrade to the Full Service package.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Square Payroll Review

Bottom Line on Square Payroll Review

Square Payroll is best for small businesses. Go for it if you’re already using other services from Square. It has all the basic payment processing features an average small business needs. It should be on the top of your list especially if you hire contractors only. That said, its four-day waiting time, slow customer support, and lack of scalability and customization are its biggest drawbacks.

The Complete Wrike Review: Pros, Cons, and Alternatives

Wrike Review

There are many types of project management software out there, but they are not all created the same. Wrike stands out for its accurate time tracking, specialized feature sets for your specific business, and easy to navigate UI. This review of Wrike covers in detail what makes it a tool worth considering. 

Screenshot of Wrike homepage

With so much customizability, Wrike fits into just about any type of business. With several tiers of features, it scales perfectly with organizations of any size. The price may be on the higher side, but you get what you pay for.

Built with people in mind, it’s easy to add and manage users and share documents with anyone you wish. Teams can work together within the platform and track projects along the way. Reports flow in real-time so you can be immediately aware if something or someone falls behind.

  • Specialized packages for marketing, creative, and services delivery teams
  • Time tracking within tasks, with timesheets tracking totals
  • Analytics tool automatically generates charts
  • Slightly more expensive than other PM software
  • Templates can remove some options
  • Can’t prioritize tasks

Pricing

A Wrike account may not be your first choice if you’re looking for cheap or free project management software. It’s neither the most nor the least expensive option to help manage projects, but it is closer to the costlier end of the spectrum. Wrike pricing does include a free version that allows unlimited users but is limited in tasks and features.

Access to many of the most useful features requires a paid subscription. Options include:

  • Professional Plan: $9.80/user per month.
  • Business Plan: $24.80/user per month.
  • Enterprise Plan: Inquire for price.

Additionally, there is the Enterprise Pinnacle plan, which offers specific features for professionals who manage projects which require more sophisticated analytical tools. Like the Enterprise standard option, you’ll have to talk to their sales team about the cost. There are also special offerings for your creative team, marketing team, or service delivery team.

For those uncertain which tier to choose, Wrike offers a 30-day free trial.

Team Management

Image of Wrike time tracking

Most project management software out there, Wrike included, puts its focus in two areas. The first is team management, using task and subtask management to organize a team’s work. Your workspace can be broken up into multiple projects and multiple teams, with the Stream widget keeping you informed of everything that is happening.

Time tracking is included natively, which is an advantage over other platforms. It’s linked to specific tasks, which means it might be easy to lose track of it. On the other hand, it does make it easy to track resource allocation and your team members’ workload. Altogether, Wrike’s features make it suitable for either large teams or small teams.

There is an optional add-on with an additional cost called Wrike Resource that offers some more features such as timesheets and team utilization reports.

Project Delivery Management

Screenshot of Wrike project portfolio overview

The task management features project management software like Wrike offer is aimed at shepherding a team to project completion. In Wrike’s case, there are many tools to help managers track project progress, even complex projects, and identify problem areas.

We’ve mentioned time tracking and workloads. You can also create time estimates by adding ‘Effort’ estimates to tasks. You can also turn tasks into milestones as a way of noting important dates. 

Customizable dashboards offer a number of ways to organize information, dividing things into projects, spaces, folders, and tasks, all of which can be added with a click. The ‘Recent’ area of the dashboard may be of particular use for navigating larger projects. Different views can also be added to spaces and projects, for example, to track dependencies using Gantt charts

Risk/Issue Management

There isn’t a specific tool for issue tracking within Wrike, though you can get those tools through integration with Github. Alternatively, depending on your project management needs, one of Wrike’s other tools could fill the role of risk tracking. Wrike recommends using their Request forms as an issue tracker, for example.

There is also a Project Risk assessment that you can receive each week, which we’ll discuss a bit more when we get to Wrike’s AI options.

Reporting

Some of the most important project management tools are those that help visualize data in an understandable way, whether you’re trying to monitor progress, time tracking, due dates, or whatever. With Wrike, you can easily add Gantt charts to track a business plan or a workload chart to see time spent on each task. 

Additionally, the Analytics tab allows you to automatically generate various charts that are updated as tasks are for real-time visibility. Note that the analytics project management tool is only available for Business plans and above customers. 

Finance Management

creenshot of Wrike budgeting feature

Wrike offers some basic functionality for finance management. For example, you can set a project to track either billable or non-billable hours. Limited options in this area is not unusual for a project management system, which will often integrate with financial tools and then focus on managing other resources. Still, Wrike’s expense combined with the cost of separate financial software might be worth keeping in mind, particularly for projects on a tight budget.

Collaboration and Communication

Wrike task management boards

We mentioned that team management is one area of focus for most project management solutions. The other is usually team collaboration, offering communication and collaboration features to keep remote team members working together. Wrike offers many features to foster communication, many focused on task management. For example, you can comment on individual tasks.

It’s also possible to send private messages to other users. Additionally, Wrike Proof allows you to mark up files stored on Wrike, allowing for some digital asset management, though file storage is somewhat limited. Even the Enterprise level is limited to 5GB per account, which for projects involving graphics or video may only scratch the surface. 

Tasks also have an approval process feature, giving managers a chance to review assignments before marking them complete.

Integration With Other Apps

Icons of Wrike integrations

No project management solution will have every tool you need. To pull those other project management tools, many of which can offer a huge advantage, into your Wrike dashboard you’ll need to look for an integration. Wrike offers a long list of options through their integration marketplace. 

There are a few standard options, including a Salesforce integration, and integrations with both Google and Microsoft products. There are also many specialized apps for specific uses. Additionally, two-way sync keeps information updated across platforms, though at a separate cost. 

Artificial Intelligence

Wrike offers some AI features in a few specific spots. The software uses its AI project management tool, called Work Intelligence, which is described as machine learning technology. It probably is doing a lot behind the scenes, but Wrike picks out instances in which you’ll see it in action:

  • Risk: As long as enough information is entered, Wrike will assess project statuses and determine whether it’s likely to be successfully completed.
  • Replies: Wrike will suggest three replies to messages and notifications based on the conversation context.
  • Document processing: Work Intelligence also provides OCR technology to convert scanned or handwritten notes into text files. 

As far as work management goes, you’re also able to create some automated workflows, such as recurring tasks or notifications.

Usability

Screenshot of Wrike app home user interface

Wrike recently redesigned its user interface, adding some top features requested by users. One of the nicest new features is the ability to design your own Home, choosing what information is easily available. Once you figure out how to get around Wrike’s customizable dashboards, the learning curve is actually pretty easy to climb. The same tools are replicated in different views, so you generally only need to learn to do something once. 

Like most platforms, the different features are built on basic task management. You assign tasks to team members, then track progress, monitor workload, and create reports based on those tasks. Specific tasks can be turned into milestones, or you can add custom fields to all the tasks in a project. Time tracking also takes place within a task. 

Project templates offer you a different set of tools depending on your needs. You may not see the option to track billable hours if you select a template for creative teams, for example. While it’s not exactly simple project management software, anyone who has used similar platforms shouldn’t have a problem. A mobile app for Android and iOS is also available.

Support

It turns out that many people don’t object to complex, feature-rich platforms as long as they’re given the tools to figure it out. As a result, support options are vital. There is a standard set of offerings that has evolved for these platforms that include things like support docs, tutorials, videos, and community support. Wrike provides all of those.

One major difference is the support options for more expensive tiers. For many platforms, these come with dedicated support. However, that’s not true with Wrike.

Instead, it’s good to note that support is supplied by another service. They include things like professionally designed workspaces, help moving to Wrike, and how to get the most out of its analytics, as well as additional support options. 

Privacy

Wrike provides the same sort of security and privacy guarantees you’d expect from any similar platform. It has limited access to uploaded files, for example, and guarantees 99% uptime. Wrike also guarantees that its backup system operates in nearly real-time, so you won’t lose anything if there is a serious issue.

Several additional and professional features for security have an additional cost or require a more expensive subscription. For example, two-factor authentication is an optional add-on. Charging extra for some features is not unusual. Wrike is unusual in offering some of these options ala carte, so you could add them to less expensive tiers if you wanted.

Enterprise-level customers can also add on Wrike Lock, which provides a master encryption key for your account that only you have access to. 

Methodology Suitability

Unsurprisingly, Wrike’s project management solution includes some features tailored toward an Agile approach. If you choose the Software Development set of templates, it will even set up options for Sprint work management. In many ways, Wrike could be used for any type of PM methodology you can build out of a task management system, though choosing the right template may make things a lot easier.

The platform can easily be used with Waterfall methodologies as well. It depends on how you set it up or which template you choose. You get a different set of options with a content creation template than you do with the web development option.

Wrike Alternatives

Most project management software, as we’ve mentioned already in our Wrike review, is based around task management. There are a number of variations on the theme with different price points, interfaces, features, etc. Some examples include:

Many Wrike features can also be found on other platforms. For example, Asana and Monday both provide an equivalent of Wrike Proof. Other options may also offer some of the professional services Wrike does.

The best project management software for your needs may be fairly similar to Wrike. However, since it actually offers some common features, top solutions that businesses look for, you may want to try out some of those other options and see how they suit you. 

The differences may not be apparent in a quick overview, so taking advantage of a free trial or free plan is often a good idea. Wrike does offer some unusual features, most notably native time tracking. 

If the task management model doesn’t appeal to you, there are a couple options that are organized differently, including Confluence and Basecamp. If you’re considering using a Wrike alternative, check out the battle between Microsoft Project vs Monday.com.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Wrike Review

Final Thoughts on Wrike Review

While the higher price might initially put some people off, Wrike is one of the easier to use and feature-packed professional services out there. That may not make it the right choice for your project management requirements. However, it should be on your short list of platforms worth checking out.

What Is Payroll For Small Businesses?

Every business, regardless of size, needs to run payroll to pay employees and payroll taxes to the government. For small businesses, one of the biggest time sinks and expenses will be payroll, but you can get help. Read on to learn more about how to do payroll, why it’s important, and the resources available to help.

What Is Payroll?

Payroll is the organized process of calculating the wages owed to employees, calculating and paying payroll taxes, distributing employee wages, and documenting the whole process. As a result, explaining how to do payroll can be a complicated topic. 

It’s important to understand both what is required of you, as the employer, as well as what your employees need to do. Keeping up to date on federal, state, and local income taxes and payroll laws are also vital for a healthy business. 

Unfortunately, the only thing more complex than explaining the payroll process may be actually running payroll. In the inevitable moments of frustration, it may be natural to ask a common question.

Do I Need A Payroll?

A payroll is the organized method used to pay employees and deal with the associated responsibilities. If you don’t run payroll and use an organized process, all that’s left is a disorganized process. The penalties for an error in payroll taxes or employee paychecks are no joke. Small business owners, even those with only one employee, should certainly invest time in a consistent method for running payroll.

However, there are many options available for managing aspects of payroll for you. Rather than trying to manage it by-hand, payroll software is available for any budget, from free offerings to more complex options. Payroll services will manage the entire process for you. 

Payroll Volatility and Small Business

The fewer employees a business has, the bigger an impact any firing or hiring will have on that business. Since small businesses, by definition, don’t have very many employees. As a result, changes in payroll are both more likely to occur and more likely to affect the business’s overall health. Rapid changes in payroll is known as payroll volatility.

Payroll volatility can be difficult to control, as it can be the result of employees leaving unexpectedly. As payroll is frequently a large part of a business’s overall finances, payroll volatility can have a significant impact on financial health. As a result, taking steps to cushion the effects of payroll volatility, such as arranging business financing, can be wise.

How To Do Payroll

Processing payroll is a multi-step process that has multiple requirements, many of which may vary depending on your location and type of business. As a result, there’s no simple answer to the question, “how to do payroll.” Luckily for small business owners, there are a number of ways to get help with processing payroll.

In general, business owners have two options when looking for help with payroll. If they want to keep more personal control, a business owner may prefer to investigate options for payroll and bookkeeping software. Otherwise, you can find a payroll service that will handle almost everything for you.

While you can do payroll by hand without any help, the number of requirements and the frequency with which they change means it can quite literally be a full-time job all on its own.

Different ways you can do payroll

Payroll Software

The number of business tools available today is exploding. Whether you’re looking for bookkeeping software, help with customer relationship management, or just communicating with your team, there are long lists of options. When it comes to payroll, employers can find anything from basic, free software that aids just in calculations, to options packed with helpful features.

Some of the standard features include:

  • Tracking federal, state, and local requirements
  • Maintain employee information, ie. exempt vs. non-exempt, hours worked, OT hours, etc.
  • Calculating and paying payroll taxes
  • Guarantees regarding tax payments and calculations
  • Maintain required records
  • Required reporting of new hires
  • Options for distributing employee pay

Like many business tools, payroll software has been moving to cloud-based apps for easier access and handling of information. Additionally, at this point some payroll software options are essentially equivalent to complete payroll services.

Standard features of a payroll software

Payroll Providers

When employers want to focus more on business operations, they may opt to hire a service to wholly handle payroll processing. Obviously, a service is frequently going to be more expensive than a software solution. For some employers, the extra cost may be worth it. Payroll services will provide all the advantages of software, plus more. 

Those additional services may include things like employee advances on future pay and providing an employee self-service portal. Employers may also be able to access HR reports, handling wage garnishments, and even employee training materials. Using payroll cards or direct deposit may be options for pay.

Payroll Taxes

Payroll can be stressful for a variety of reasons, but payroll taxes probably are at the top of the list for many people. Imagine the anxiety of your yearly personal taxes, only multiplied by the number of employees you have, and required to be filed several times throughout the year. That is one reason payroll software and services are so popular.

As we’ve mentioned, payroll taxes will vary depending on a number of factors, such as your location and type of business. Some aspects will remain consistent, however, primarily regarding federal taxes.

Requirements

Anyone who has received a paycheck has some idea how payroll taxes work. Your gross pay is calculated, then income taxes, FICA deductions, garnishments, etc. are subtracted to calculate your net pay, the amount you’ll actually receive. The employer is responsible for figuring all those amounts and paying them to the government.

These payments can be made either monthly or semi-weekly. Payroll tax filings must be made on the quarterly tax filing deadlines. Those are:

  • April 30th
  • July 31th
  • October 31th
  • January 31th

There may be a grace period for some filings. Tax payments must be made in a timely fashion, however, to avoid penalties.

State and local governments largely follow the federal government’s lead, in terms of payment and filing deadlines. However, employers should certainly confirm their local requirements.

Deadline calendar for tax

Penalties

If tax payments are late, the IRS charges a percentage of the late payment. The percentage increases the tardier a payment is:

  • 1-5 calendar days – 2% of unpaid amount
  • 6-15 calendar days – 5%  of unpaid amount
  • Over 15 days – 10% of unpaid amount

After that point, the IRS will send you a notice requesting payment. The penalty increases to 15% of the unpaid amount 10 days later. 

That’s not the end of penalties, however. The IRS charges interest on unpaid taxes at a rate that varies. As a result, even a small penalty can become significant fairly quickly. There are ways to avoid interest charges, such as applying for a payment plan.

What Is Payroll? Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Bottom Line: What Is Payroll?

Processing payroll for the first few times can be understandably intimidating. However, it will soon become just another aspect of your business. It may be a chore, but one far outweighed by the excitement of running a business.

Gusto Review: Solid Payroll Software Mixed With Time Management

Gusto review

Gusto is a payroll processing software, offering tools to expedite payment processing and tax filing. To rise above the competition, it provides features to make other areas of business management easier as well. This Gusto review uncovers the features that make this platform shine.

Our Verdict

Gusto logo

Gusto

From $39

Built with small businesses in mind, Gusto has a slew of payroll tools that simplify or automate the entire process. In addition, its higher tiers throw in HR services to help you and your employees make the most of time management.

  • Built-in time tracking
  • Unlimited payroll runs
  • Auto process and submit payroll taxes
  • HR assistance locked behind the most expensive tier
  • Customer service is slow
  • Costlier than other options

Gusto at a Glance

Screenshot of Gusto website homepage

Gusto packs a lot into each of its packages, going well beyond what a typical payroll processing app can do. At its core, Gusto offers unlimited payroll runs and automated payroll processing for fixed hourly and salaried workers.

If you are slow to get payments processed in any given week, Gusto might be a good pick for you – it can have funds in your employees’ bank accounts in just 24 hours. Above that, the software calculates and processes tax filing without you needing to lift a finger.

Gusto really stands out through additional tools such as time tracking and access to HR professionals that can help with the tough questions. Starting at $39 per month, Gusto isn’t as cheap as some other payroll processing software, but you get what you pay for.

Who Gusto is Best For

The payroll processing software gets along best with smaller businesses that can make the most of having an abundance of features in one package. Gusto can run payroll in any state and even seamlessly crunches the numbers for small businesses spread across multiple states.

Pricing

Gusto features three price points to connect with your business. The Core tier costs $39 per month, with an additional $6 per payee. The Complete plan has the same base rate of $39, but each employee is $12 per month. Finally, the Concierge package will set you back $149 per month, but staff are still just an additional $12 each.

Gusto logo

Plan

Core

Complete

Concierge

Price

$39/month

$6 per month per person

$39/month

$12 per month per person

$149/month

$12 per month per person

Unlimited payrolls

Automated payroll processing

Auto-file payroll taxes

Next-day direct deposit

Time tracking

HR resource center

Gusto Features

Gusto’s features extend beyond typical payroll processing tools to include HR services as well. You can get quick direct deposits for employees, automated payroll processing, and an HR resource center, which can connect you with an actual HR professional.

Unlimited Payrolls

Screenshot of Run Payroll page in Gusto

When it comes to doing payroll, sometimes once just isn’t enough. Last minute changes or addendums can be an issue if your software service decides to charge you every time you need to run the numbers. With Gusto, you can do your payroll as many times as you need to and not worry about incurring additional costs.

Automated Payroll Processing

Gusto has the ability to run payroll automatically on the day of your choice. The software can accommodate salaried employees or hourly staff with fixed hours where payment is the same each time. You’ll receive a notification a day before Gusto does its processing, so you can make any last-minute changes before it’s too late.

Auto-file Payroll Taxes

Managing and submitting payroll taxes for each employee can be a job in itself, and any issues with the numbers can lead to more headaches down the road. Luckily, Gusto can calculate and file these for you.

The software can handle filings for local, state, and federal governments each time payroll is completed. To sweeten the pot further, Gusto makes this service available at even their lowest price tier.

Next-day Direct Deposit

Even if you’re a little late to work through payroll for the week, Gusto has your back. With its Complete and Concierge plans, you can direct deposit funds into employees’ accounts the very next day. If you’ve chosen to go with the Core plan, you still have the option to direct deposit two or four days after payroll is processed.

Time Tracking

Screenshot of Gusto Time Tracking feature - gusto review

When dealing with hourly staff, it’s imperative to know hours worked so you can pay them the correct amount. Gusto has a built-in time tracker through the website or mobile app to keep everything in-house. At a glance, you can add hours worked for each employee into payroll without getting lost in a sea of programs. Read how to do payroll for contractors and freelancers.

You can also use Gusto to track sick days and PTO and run reports off the data. Team members can also see this information and make time-off requests right from their Gusto login. Note that this feature is missing from the Core package.

HR Resource Center

Screenshot of Gusto HR Resource center

Gusto’s Concierge service goes a step further with a comprehensive HR resource center. Within this portal, you have unlimited access to a team of human resource professionals who can guide you through issues you may face while on the job. Furthermore, this resource center allows you to build a custom employee handbook, job descriptions, and guides and policies for your company. Read on the different payroll laws here.

Alternatives to Gusto

While Gusto has a lot to offer, it may not be for everyone. Business managers with other time management software are effectively double-dipping with Gusto’s extra features. All these tools do come at a higher price than other options out there. Here are some alternatives to Gusto worth checking out:

SurePayroll

SurePayroll matches Gusto blow for blow with payroll processing at its $29.99 per month tier. At $5 per employee, it is cheaper than Gusto in that regard. SurePayroll’s services are more affordable because it lacks the time tracking tools that Gusto brings to the table. If you already have time tracking covered elsewhere, SurePayroll may be a good option for your small business instead. Read the SurePayroll review if you’re interested in this tool or the SurePayroll vs Gusto review.

Wave

Wave’s unique pricing structure is based on its limited ability to run automated payroll. The software can only do so in 14 states and charges a $35 base fee for use in those states. Other states are only $20 per month, but both charge $6 per employee.

What makes Wave stand out for small businesses is its free accounting and invoicing software. Without setup fees or hidden charges, these tools are made available at any time. If you’re interested in this tool, read the Wave Payroll review.

Onpay

Onpay doesn’t charge for setup or the first month of use, and its base fee of $35 is lower than Gusto. With only one tier of service, you’re not able to pick from a list of packages for the one with the features you need.

The payroll processing software does scale well with small businesses, adding just $4 for each new user. Onpay includes automatic payroll, unlimited pay runs, and free tax document processing just like Gusto does. It doesn’t have any built-in time tracking but does come with some basic HR tools. Read the OnPay review to learn more about this payroll software.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Gusto Review

Bottom Line on Gusto Review

Gusto doesn’t stop at payroll software, adding more features small businesses can use. A project management software with built-in time tracker and HR tools eliminate confusion about hours and processes so you can dedicate more time to getting things done. The service includes the staples of auto payroll and fast deposits while keeping costs to a modest amount.

The 10 Best VoIP Providers in 2023

Black IP desk phone on an office table

As new technology emerges, professional communication tools are no longer limited to large corporations. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) software brings cost-effective calling to businesses of any size while adding features that increase both productivity and efficiency. We found the best VoIP providers for businesses of all types.

Quick View

Software

Price

Call Recording

Voicemail/ Call Forwarding

Conferencing

Auto Attendant

$19.99 to $49.99 per user per month

On-demand or automatic depending on plan

Visual voicemail, voicemail to email, voicemail to text

Up to 100 video participants for free

Multi-level auto attendant

$11.95 to $57.95 per user per month

Can record calls and videos at higher tiers

Voicemail to email or SMS notifications, no call forwarding

Video up to 250 participants, unlimited audio conferences

Can customize to route calls to appropriate area

As low as $14.99 per month, scales with business

On-demand call recording

Virtual voicemail, recordings sent to inbox, call forwarding

Up to 30 participants with conference bridge

AI virtual assistant with natural voice interactions

$19.95 to $24.95 per month per user

Record calls and play back as needed with Pro plan

Basic voicemail and call forwarding available

Up to 25 participants with Pro plan

Automate how you manage incoming calls

$25.49 to $46.74 per user per month

On-demand or always on at higher tiers only

Voicemail transcription limited to higher tiers

Up to 100 person video conferences

Can set up and record prompts

$15 to $25 per user per month, custom plans available

As simple as clicking the record button

Voicemail transcription at any tier level

Video conferencing with AI transcription

Multi-level auto attendant

$26 to $80 per month

None available

Call forwarding and voicemail to email audio files

None available

Custom greetings, live receptionist available for an additional fee

$0 to $99 per user per month

Record calls to gauge team’s performance

Can forward calls at any time to voicemail

Conference calls to collaborate from anywhere

Automatic call distribution system to get calls to the right place

$15 to $133 per user per month

Save recordings to your device or a cloud

Call forwarding, voicemail transcription

HD audio and video conferencing with up to 500 participants

Multi-level auto attendant

$22 to $39 per user per month

Record all calls or just specific ones, access recordings from the cloud

Call forwarding, voicemail to email

Built-in one click audio and video conferencing

Recorded greetings to route callers to the right place

Quick Verdict

Best Overall: RingCentral. RingCentral makes its service available for as low as $19.99 per month to small businesses. You can make and receive unlimited calls within the US and Canada, structure automated prompts for callers, and make use of several collaborative tools to boot.

The Best VoIP Providers for Businesses

Choosing the right VoIP provider for your business comes down to functionality, feature set, and price. Without further ado, here’s a breakdown of the best VoIP providers for businesses on our list.

RingCentral logo

RingCentral

$19.99 to $49.99

4.7

RingCentral isn’t afraid of sharing features. Even its introductory plan at $19.99 per user monthly has voicemail capabilities, toll-free numbers with minutes, and access to the mobile app. Jumping up a tier adds in the majority of remaining features for just $27.99 a user.

Call recording is available on-demand at this price point, but saving the conversations you want to keep is as easy as the push of a button. You can set up your multi-level auto attendant with custom greetings and phrases to help it guide customers to the correct member of your team.

A separate application called RingCentral Video Pro allows you to host meetings of up to 100 participants and integrates well with Google and Microsoft. The basic video package is always free, but there is an option to upgrade for $11.99 per user per month.

With all it offers, RingCentral can be daunting for new users to dive into. Once you’ve learned the software and taught your team, you likely won’t look back.

This internet phone service stands out further by providing a means to share documents and chats within the app itself. This piece of project management software can be a huge blessing for smaller businesses that can’t afford multiple packages.

RingCentral covers communication and collaboration for one low price, making it the best VoIP provider for small businesses. Check out our complete RingCentral review if you’re interested in this software.

  • Unlimited calls within the US and Canada
  • Mobile apps for iOS and Android
  • Built-in team messaging and document sharing
  • Can be overcomplicated for first time users
Nextiva logo

Nextiva

$11.95 to $57.95

4.4

Nextiva has an abundance of features at its disposal, but a lot of these are hidden away in higher-tier plans. It’s possible to use the VoIP service for under $12 per month, but most key components aren’t accessible unless you’re able to pay $26.95 per user per month for the Enterprise plan.

At this level, you’ll be able to perform an unlimited number of audio or video calls or conferences with customers or teams. You can be notified of any calls you miss through email or SMS. The Enterprise plan also allows you to record calls or video conferences for training or future reference.

Nextiva has an attentive auto-attendant that helps save time on the phone. While the lower tier offers only a basic attendant, higher-level plans allow you to customize the attendant to your specific business phone system. It can also direct calls to the right person within your team.

A mobile and desktop app is available at all price points and lets you manage your communications from anywhere you have internet access. Should you encounter any issues along the way, Nextiva boasts 24/7 customer support that is quick to problem-solve. To learn more about Nextiva’s features, read our complete Nextiva review.

  • Unlimited calling within US and Canada
  • Mobile app to stay connected from anywhere
  • Customizable auto attendant
  • 24/7 customer support
  • Call recording is limited to higher-tier plans
Vonage logo

Vonage

From $14.99

4.3

Vonage is no stranger to VoIP, providing internet phone service to both home and business. When it comes to business, pricing per user varies depending on how many team members you have. Businesses between 20 and 50 users pay $14.99 for the lowest tier plan, but smaller enterprises will pay more. Once you’ve surpassed 100 users, you’ll have to call sales for a quote.

This VoIP service prides itself on keeping you connected, offering a mobile and desktop app to access your communications from anywhere. When it’s time to put the business down for the day, you can still be notified of important voicemails or allow only specific calls through.

To help screen calls, Vonage has an AI-based virtual assistant that understands voice. It has the capability to direct callers where they need to go and can be customized further at higher-priced tiers.

Of all its features, Vonage has limitations on large-scale conferences. Its conference bridge only allows 30 participants to join at one time, which may not be enough for some teams. Vonage’s customer service also leaves something to be desired, only reachable through email or chat.

If you’re familiar with APIs, Vonage has several layers of customization to make your setup unique. Customers remember a tailored phone experience much more than a canned one.

Vonage is a large telecommunications provider that still understands the tools small businesses need to succeed. Its customizability affords the opportunity to make your internet phone service your own.

  • Several routing options to never miss a call
  • Apps for mobile and desktop
  • Very customizable with communications APIs
  • Limited customer support
  • Hard to understand which plans offer which features
Ooma office logo

Ooma Office

$19.95 to $24.95

3.9

Ooma Office has two price points for businesses that vary significantly in features. To use the features that small businesses tend to use the most, you will need to grab the Office Pro plan at $24.95 per user per month.

The basic tier lacks the ability to record any phone call. Pro users can choose to record every conversation or set up the app to save talks on demand. Similarly, the entry-level package doesn’t have the means to do any video conferencing with clients or your team. Nor will you be able to access the desktop app to communicate or manage VoIP settings on the low-priced tier.

No matter which plans you choose, you will be able to make use of voicemail or call forwarding as needed. You can also set up an AI attendant to receive calls and point clients to the correct team member.

A true benefit of Ooma Office is that each user receives a unique direct-dial number instead of an extension. This can add a level of professionalism to a business while making it easier for customers to reach your team. If you have a number you’re passionate about, Ooma often waives the fee for porting it over.

Most of Ooma’s best features are only available in the Pro plan. That being said, all your users have access to a personal direct-dial number no matter which package you choose. Read our Ooma Office review to learn more about its pricing and features.

  • Desktop and mobile app
  • Unlimited calling in U.S., Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico
  • Direct dial numbers for each user
  • Desktop app is limited to the Pro plan
Mitel logo

Mitel

$25.49 to $46.74

4.2

Mitel keeps most of its features as low-hanging fruit, giving access to a majority of its tools for $25.49 per user on a monthly basis. Limitations creep in with voicemail transcription and call recording. You can only find these features hiding out in higher-tier plans. 

At every price point, Mitel makes available its slew of collaborative tools. These include video conferences of up to 100 people and a platform for teamwork and business SMS messages. Although Mitel integrates with Salesforce, what’s offered here is enough for a small business to start.

The internet phone service further links up with Microsoft Outlook and Google’s suite of applications for seamless information sharing. It also casually shells out an unlimited number of minutes per month for outbound calls–something that’s usually limited in other plans.

What makes Mitel frustrating at times is the amount of work it takes to initially set up. Once you’ve navigated these potholes, you should have clear roads ahead.

Finally, Mitel’s app works on PC, Android, and iOS devices, so you can stay plugged in no matter where you are. It’s easy to reroute calls when you’re ready to hang things up for the day.

  • 100-user video conferences available even at the lowest tier
  • Unlimited minutes per month
  • Integrates with Microsoft Outlook and Google Suite
  • App for PC, Android, and iOS
  • Initial setup can be daunting
Dialpad logo

Dialpad

$15 to $25

4.6

Dialpad has a lot of great features, but none compare to what it can do with artificial intelligence. This AI can be the core of your customer service experience, guiding callers to the correct location while setting the tone of your business.

You can also use AI to scale sales and revenue to be proactive on each of those fronts through automated messaging. These virtual assistants can also transcribe conversations during video conferences that you can read through later.

When transcribing voicemail, the AI lets you know the tone of the message, so you know what you’re about to jump into. Dialpad also makes call recording easy, where a click of a button records and then saves those critical pieces of data.

The two price points vary the most when it comes to customer service, as Dialpad isn’t always available should you use the Standard plan. The Standard plan also limits your service to one physical location.

Each plan boasts unlimited calling and SMS to stay at the forefront of communication. Best of all, you can find out for yourself risk-free through Dialpad’s 14-day trial.

Dialpad maximizes its artificial intelligence output through attendant and transcription to save you time and effort. Check out our complete Dialpad review if you’re interested in this tool.

  • Free 14-day trial
  • Unlimited calls, SMS, group messaging
  • Call recording and voicemail transcription at every tier
  • AI can record conversations for playback later
  • Limited integrations and support on the Standard plan
Grasshopper logo

Grasshopper

$26 to $80

3.1

Grasshopper introduces a rather unique pricing formula that makes it one of the best VoIP providers for small businesses. All features are always made available, and plans are flat rate depending on the number of phone lines and extensions you use.

For $26 per month, you’ll have access to one phone number and three extensions. This scales to $80 a month for five lines but an unlimited number of extensions to share among your team.

Each line or extension can set up its own call forwarding and voicemail transcription for calls that don’t get answered. A desktop and mobile app make this process as smooth as can be.

Grasshopper lets you record personalized greetings when customers call in to help guide them to the right extension. If this isn’t enough, Grasshopper partners with Ruby to send your calls to a live receptionist for an additional fee.

The VoIP service doesn’t have the means to record audio from phone calls, nor does it have any conferencing capabilities. This may not be an issue for small businesses but should be kept in mind if you’re working across multiple locations.

Grasshopper’s flat monthly rate speaks to businesses that don’t need a lot of phone numbers but still want to capitalize on features. If you’re interested in this VoIP provider, check out our complete Grasshopper review.

  • Free 7-day trial
  • Mobile and desktop apps
  • Flat rate per month
  • Lacks conferencing and call recording
Freshdesk logo

Freshdesk Contact Center

$0 to $99

4.3

Freshdesk Contact Center’s feature list fits well with businesses that make use of a call center. There is technically a free VoIP plan, but this tier doesn’t offer a single minute of incoming or outgoing calls. You’re forced to pay for every minute your team uses.

It’s almost assuredly better to invest in one of the other plans that start with 2,000 free minutes and scale depending on how much voice traffic you’re going to see each month. These plans also grow in features representative of larger-scale businesses.

The internet phone service includes call recording to monitor employee interactions with customers. There are also options for wait queues and custom greetings to keep callers informed.

Conference calls let you stay in touch with your team to collaborate and share insights. You can capture notes while on calls to look back on as needed.

While you can customize some initial interaction points with customers, most of the software is rigid and unable to be modified. It’s designed with call centers in mind, and there’s little you can do to get away from that. However, if your small business has a call center of any size, Freshdesk is worth a look.

Freshdesk Contact Center is built for call centers with agent tracking, call recording, and a real-time dashboard.

  • Free 21-day trial
  • Call notes on conference calls
  • Monitor service levels
  • Limited customization options
8x8 logo

8×8

$15 to $133

4.6

8×8, named for the number of video pixels representing the basic building block of video transformation, brings together voice, video, and messaging.

Even the Express plan for $15 per user per month doesn’t shy away from features. You can use the auto attendant to build a multi-level automated call system with prompts and talk back. One account allows for multiple call flows depending on the origin of the call.

You’re also privy to visual voicemail features that you can read at a glance. Even at this level, it’s possible to set up video conferences for up to 100 individuals. The software can record and transcribe meetings for future reference.

Video conferencing capability grows with each plan, expanding to a total of 500 participants at higher levels. While missing from the Express package, call recording is available to keep important conversations or points you want to circle back to later.

These higher-tier plans also introduce the ability to call internationally to 48 different countries. Communications to these countries are unlimited at these plan levels.

For all 8×8 does have, it’s not as easy to identify and block spam calls like the other best VoIP providers for businesses can. While not impossible, it can’t be accomplished with a simple button press.

8×8’s X Series is one of the best VoIP apps for business or personal use with stellar features and the capability to connect with 48 countries around the globe. Read our ultimate 8×8 review to learn more about its features and pricing.

  • Voice calling for up to 48 countries
  • HD video conferencing
  • Mobile and desktop apps
  • Limited protection from spam calls
GoTo Connect logo

GoTo Connect

$22 to $39

4.5

Formerly known as Jive, GoTo Connect has rebranded itself as one of the best VoIP providers for small businesses. At the top of its list of features are built-in audio and video conferencing tools that require nothing more than a click to use.

Conferencing is handled seamlessly from GoTo Connect’s desktop or mobile apps without requiring any additional downloads. You can pull in up to 250 people from 30 different countries, even with just the base package.

While you’re chatting with your team, your auto attendant can field your incoming calls with custom greetings and directions. If no one can answer the phone, the internet phone service can forward calls elsewhere, or you can receive an email notification from voicemail.

Plans don’t cost an arm and a leg either, with the Basic plan at $22 per user per month. You’ll need to upgrade plans to have access to call recording and GoTo Connect’s analytics.

Even small businesses need more than local calling, and GoTo Connect skimps on minutes until you reach the upper echelon of its plans. The same holds true for international calling, where they could be a bit more generous upfront.

Bottom Line: GoTo Connect carries a lot of features even at the basic level, with a stellar audio and video conferencing service.

  • Built-in conferencing at every level
  • Unlimited extensions
  • Real-time analytics
  • Limited toll-free minutes in lower tiers

Choosing the Best VoIP Provider For Your Business

When deciding what the best VoIP provider might be for your business, consider how the following features would impact your business.

  • Hardware
  • Local/toll-free numbers
  • Desktop/mobile apps
  • Call routing
  • Customer support
  • Usability
  • Price

Hardware

When investing in VoIP software, you’ll also need to pick up or have access to the appropriate hardware to make use of your new service. Providers often sell headsets or VoIP-specific phones as an add-on to your package. In some cases, you may be able to bring in a VoIP-enabled device that you already own.

Local/Toll-free Numbers

Even if you’re only planning to run a local business to start, consider how it will scale over time. If you expand to online sales, it’s helpful to have a toll-free number that customers can call from anywhere.

The best VoIP providers for small businesses give you room to scale and add toll-free or vanity numbers as you grow. They also allow a number of toll-free minutes for calls to keep your costs down.

Desktop and Mobile Apps

While VoIP revolves around making and receiving calls, a desktop or mobile app serves as a hub for customization, collaboration, and analytics. Here’s a list of the best VoIP cell phone services for you to check out.

These apps allow you to view incoming and outgoing calls, listen to recordings, and see how each member handles the calls they receive. Analytics can show how long customers are on hold, and where bottlenecks are located and offer insights to make your system more efficient.

It’s also within these apps that some VoIP providers feature video conferencing so you can communicate with your teams no matter where they may be.

Call Routing

Customers hate being bounced around when they call in with a question, or complaint, or to place an order. It’s important to use a VoIP service provider that helps customers navigate where they need to go and fast.

Auto attendants serve as a means to greet callers without tying up one of your staff, and most can be customized to fit your business. Multi-level attendants can seamlessly weave clients through a maze of prompts and handle callers differently based on the criteria you choose.

Customer Support

An internet phone service is only as good as the amount of time it’s working. Most VoIP services boast 99.99% uptime, but it’s crucial to be able to reach for help when something isn’t working as planned. Some basic plans lack customer support options, so check before you buy.

Usability

It stands to reason that your entire team will be working with your VoIP software in some capacity. Whether these people are tech-savvy or not, the service needs to be presented in a way that’s easy for everyone to understand.

Some VoIP providers have a lot of features and are difficult to take in at first glance. Should you choose one of these, work through the systems first to teach your team when the time comes.

Price

Pricing is an integral factor for any small business, and VoIP systems providers don’t typically come cheap – however, there are some pretty affordable VoIP services worth checking out. Although you want to pick a plan that factors into your budget now, make sure it also scales well as your company grows. Some providers offer discounts based on the number of users who receive a line or extension.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Best VoIP Providers

Conclusion: Best VOIP Providers

VoIP technology brings not only a better way to communicate with customers but also tools to help your company succeed. Recordings and easy-to-access voicemail mean you’ll never miss an important detail, while audio and video conferencing help keep your team on the same page.

We’ve found RingCentral to be the top option for businesses with its low price point, robust feature set, and unlimited calling anywhere in the US or Canada. If RingCentral doesn’t push your buttons, we’re confident one of the other VoIP service providers on this list will.

The Best Bad Credit Business Loans You Can Apply For Online

Bad credit business loans concept

Keeping a business open these days is liable to leave you with both a need for extra funds and less than stellar credit. Unfortunately, it’s a truism that banks only lend to people who are already pretty financially healthy. The good news is that there are many options for bad credit business loans out there, including a variety of online and alternative lenders. 

Quick View

Lender

Interest Rates

Pre-pay penalties

Term Length

Loan Fees

Application Process

Starting at 7.99%

None

12 to 36 months

Variable fees

Create online profile, funding within 48 hours

8.33%

None

24 or 52 weeks

No application or origination fee

Soft credit pull, receive money in days

Starting at 35%

None

Up to 24 months

Origination fee, late payment fee, returned payment fee, monthly maintenance fees

Apply online for same day decision

Factor rate: 1.15

APR: 9.99%

No info

6 to 18 months

2.5% origination fee and more

Meet requirements, apply online, receive funds same day

Factor rates: 1.10

Early pay-off discounts

4 to 15 months

2.5% origination fee

Apply online and receive funding in 72 hours

Pegged to prime rate

Up to 5% of prepayment

Long term

Varies

Find a local lender, can take months

Quick Verdict

Best Overall – Biz2Credit. While they don’t necessarily specialize in bad credit borrowers, they can find terms to meet most needs.

The Best Bad Credit Business Loans 

Find out more about the best business loans for bad credit available. We found the easiest, most convenient business financing options you can apply for online. With a range of term lengths, interest rates, and more, you’ll be able to find the financing option to match your needs.

Biz2Credit logo

Biz2Credit

Starts at 7.99%

4.6

Biz2Credit asks a lot from their customers, including a higher minimum credit score for a business loan. Small business owners may find it easier to get a working capital loan, which is paid back according to the business’s receipts.

Note that terms start at one year, while other lenders on this list usually offer shorter-term loans. It may be a little harder to qualify for Biz2Credit, but the benefits are better rates and longer terms.

Application process: 

  • Create profile
  • Submit application, including bank statements
  • Decision within 24 hours
  • Funding within 48 hours
  • Working capital and term business loans
  • Longer term loans
  • Weekly or biweekly payments
  • Requires 660 personal credit score, $250k annual revenue
FundBox logo

FundBox

Starts at 8.33%

4.2

Fundbox offers several different financing options, including term business loans and business lines of credit. The service requires you to link accounting software and other information to assess your business. This means they aren’t relying solely on a personal or business credit score, so there’s no minimum credit score requirement to meet and a poor credit score won’t interrupt your cash flow.

While Fundbox has a lot to offer, there are a couple of things to be aware of. First, their term loans are still in “beta,” a term borrowed from software developers for something that’s not 100% ready. 

Also, be aware that Fundbox’s auto-payment always withdraws on Wednesdays. Even if you pay off the loan early, you’ll still have to wait for the next Wednesday payment to roll around.  Fundbox assesses your business’s health, rather than credit score, when deciding to extend a small business loan.

Application process: 

  • Connect accounting software and checking account to assess business health
  • Soft credit pull
  • Select terms
  • Receive money in days
  • Quick approval
  • May be able to get a second loan without reapplying
  • Auto-payments available
  • Term loans in beta
OnDeck logo

OnDeck

Starts at 35%

3.6

OnDeck doesn’t specialize in offering a small business loan with bad credit. There’s also a minimum personal credit rating you’ll need, so a bad credit score may put this option out of reach. However, a term loan with OnDeck offers one big advantage for business loans.

If you need cash flow quickly, OnDeck provides funds as soon as the same day you apply. While the interest rate and fees may make your eyes pop, there may be circumstances when fast financing is worth it. Additionally, the business loan agreement includes a number of benefits, including opportunities to wipe out interest and save some money.

Application process: 

  • Apply online
  • Requires bank statements, annual revenue
  • Receive same-day decision and funds
  • Prepay and remaining interest waived
  • Loyalty program – take out a new loan and existing interest waived
  • Consistent payment amounts
  • Personal credit score, annual revenue, and other loan requirements
Credibly logo

Credibly

Starts at 9.99%

3.5

You can have a fairly low credit score and still be eligible for business loans with Credibly. Poor credit history may impact the interest rates that are offered to you, however. While you may be able to get a business loan with bad credit, Credibly may not be a great option for startup business loans. Your business needs at least a few months of revenue history to qualify. 

Application process: 

  • Provide bank statements, cash flow, and credit information–min. personal score 500
  • Receive funding same day
  • Several business financing options
  • Quick turnaround times
  • Quick Draw funding allows additional loans
  • Requires at least 6 months in business
Fora Financial logo

Fora Financial

Starts at 1.10%

3.2

With terms as short as 4 months, Fora Financial is a great option if you need some additional funds, but only for a little while. Early pay-off discounts make Fora an even more attractive choice for short-term financing.

Business lenders typically take bad personal credit into account. However, Fora has a minimum credit score of 500, which is fairly deep in “bad” territory. As a result, if your business can meet requirements in sales and a few other areas, you may be able to get a business loan matched to your needs. Secured loans and other options for bad credit are also available.

SBA loans can help those with a poor personal credit score get long-term financing.

Application process: 

  • One-page application
  • Provide 3 months of bank statements
  • Funding in as little  as  72 hours
  • Tailored amounts and terms
  • Unsecured and secured business loans are available
  • Open to applications 24 hours
  • Requires 6 months of operation, $12,000 in monthly sales, and no bankruptcies
US SBA Loans

US SBA Loan

Starts at 5%

3.0

One requirement for SBA loans is that every other business financing option has been denied, so in some ways, it’s the last resort option for small business loans. The SBA  arranges and guarantees the loans, giving traditional banks additional confidence in businesses looking for money. Some requirements, like minimum credit score and the length of the term loan, depending on the specific lender.

Interest rates are limited, usually pegged to the prime rate. There are also a range of other protections for borrowers required by the SBA. SBA loans can help those with a poor personal credit score get long-term financing.

Application process: 

  • Find a local lender working with Small Business Administration
  • Gather business documents
  • Can take months
  • Loan partly guaranteed by SBA
  • SBA matches you to interested lenders
  • Fixed and variable rate loans
  • Through traditional bank
  • Can take several months

Choosing the Best Bad Credit Business Loan

You may need to get a business loan to keep your doors open and make enough to pay your debts. Unfortunately, bad credit scores can make getting a small business loan from a traditional bank very difficult, dooming businesses that might have built back to great success. 

Luckily, there are now other options where businesses can get a term loan, merchant advance or other types of financing. These alternative lenders take other factors into account, offer shorter terms, and provide other options that can keep your business operating despite bad credit history.

Interest Rate and APR

Many alternative and online lenders will offer a range of loan options, which allows a business owner to select financing options that best fit their needs. An important factor in that decision is the interest rates on offer, which will determine the bulk of the loan’s overall cost.

Most lenders consider a credit score when determining the rates they offer, including both personal and business credit scores. Small business loans for bad credit scores usually come with a higher rate to compensate for the perceived higher risk. You can expect the loan to end up costing more overall as a result. 

Note that interest rate and annual percentage rate (APR) aren’t the same things, as APR includes some fees. Additionally, some options may not ask you to pay interest, for example, you may be able to find a business line of credit that only charges fees. 

Term Length and Penalties

Most loan options will come with a term length, penalties for non-payment, and a range of other terms. Obviously, it’s important to review them thoroughly as they determine how and when repayment is due, as well as what happens if the loan isn’t repaid. 

Term loans are one particular type of small business loan, one that you’ll commonly find offered by online lenders and which matches most people’s idea of “how a loan works.” A term loan can be particularly difficult to get with bad credit, however. There are other options,  like merchant lines of credit or invoice factoring, that might be easier to obtain. We delve into those options more below.

Loan Purpose

The reason you’re seeking a business loan may actually impact your approval odds. When small businesses are seeking money to expand or grow, approval may be more likely even with a less than perfect credit score. 

Additionally, loans for things like buying new equipment may be easier to get with a poor credit score, as the piece of equipment itself can act as collateral for the loan. The minimum credit score required for different types of financing can also vary, so you may be able to find a lender even with poor personal credit scores.

Loan Requirements

Before paperwork is examined or your business plan reviewed, there are some minimum requirements that may have to be met for loan approval. The requirements can include a specific credit score, though others regarding a business’s health can’t be found on a credit report.

A business loan offered for small businesses might require an open business bank account, a minimum business cash flow, and at least a few months of operation. Some loans might require a personal guarantee from the owner, particularly if the business has bad credit. 

Additionally, some financing options may have specific requirements, like a down payment for buying new equipment or assessing outstanding accounts for invoice financing. 

Alternatives

The financing option most people are familiar with are personal loans structured as a term loan, with interest on the principal being repaid over a specified timeline. Whether it’s an unsecured or secured loan, these loan options can be particularly difficult to obtain with a poor credit score. Small business owners have a wider range of options available to them, however:

  • Equipment financing: Similar to a car loan, the new equipment being purchased acts as collateral for the loan.
  • Invoice financing: Money is borrowed against unpaid customer invoices, allowing you to access some of that money immediately. Invoice factoring is a similar option. 
  • Merchant cash advance: Merchant cash advances involve borrowing money in return for a share of future profits from credit card sales, something that should perhaps be done cautiously.
  • Working capital loans: Short-term loans used to fund day-to-day operations. 
  • Business credit cards: A business credit card functions more or less the same as a personal one. Can be difficult to obtain with bad credit.
  • Business credit line: Business lines of credit are somewhat similar to credit cards, in which you have a running balance you can pay down, with an overall credit limit. The difference is you can borrow and pay back cash, rather than being limited to a card.

In addition to different types of loans, there are other things you can do to improve your odds of getting bad credit business loans. Some online lenders have more generous requirements. Another option may be to sign a personal guarantee, making you personally liable for the loan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Bad Credit Business Loans

Final Thoughts on Bad Credit Business Loans

It’s not impossible to get a business loan with bad credit. However, you may need to do some homework and find the option that best meets your needs and budget. With the mix of traditional and innovative lenders available today, there are options to meet almost every need.