Lauren V. Macaraeg – Page 2 – Management Library

Name: Best Free Business Banking Accounts
Brand: management
Rating: 4.5 (4 reviews)

June 14, 2022March 21, 2023

Dialpad Review: VoIP Ace of AI

Dialpad levels up the way you call and message your co-workers and customers. It stands out among VoIP providers because it offers cutting-edge AI technology, comprehensive call management features, and affordable pricing. We list pros, cons, features, and competitors in this Dialpad review.

Our Verdict

Dialpad

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Dialpad is a smart selection for your business if you’re looking for a combination of multiple VoIP functions, advanced AI platform, and cost-effective plan rates. To begin with, all the plans allow you to manage your incoming and outgoing calls via call forwarding, voicemail transcription, and call transferring.

Plus, the AI system provides real-time recommendations and task automation for better workflows. In addition to this, you can make as many calls and send as many messages as you like to colleagues and clients. Last but not least, the pricing of the Dialpad packages is cheaper compared to similar VoIP services.

Although Dialpad has its benefits, it admittedly has a few drawbacks too. For instance, the basic plan only lets you integrate your VoIP system with essential productivity suites, while the advanced plans come with more integration options.

Aside from this, none of the packages include dedicated VoIP devices, although the app is compatible with computers, smartphones, and softphones. Finally, number extensions are available with the most expensive plan only. At the end of the day, Dialpad is a well-rounded VoIP provider that gives you bang for your buck.

Pricing: Starts at $15 per user/month

Source: Dialpad

Superior AI technology
Complete call management features for all plans
No caps to VoIP calling, SMS & MMS

Limited integrations only for low-tier plan
No dedicated VoIP hardware
Extensions available for corporate plan only

Dialpad at a Glance

Man wearing a headset using a black laptop talking to someone over Dialpad plus closeup of live call transcript

Dialpad is a VoIP platform that serves as a unified communications solution for business teams of all sizes. Through a single VoIP app, it equips you to contact your customers via phone calls, messages, and video conferencing. Since the VoIP system is customizable, you can scale it to match the growth of your business by adding users and managing phone numbers.

It was founded in 2011 by Craig Walker and Brian Peterson. At present, it now has more than 70,000 brand customers all over the world. It currently employs over 1,000 team members who are based in 11 global offices in various countries.

Dialpad has an edge over other VoIP services because this budget-friendly yet ultra-functional VoIP system is powered by modern AI technology. Its features include VoIP communications, call management, phone numbers, office locations, collaboration tools, auto attendant, software app support, hardware compatibility, third-party integrations, and customer service.

Who Dialpad Is Best For

Dialpad is ideal for business owners who need an all-purpose VoIP service but have a limited budget. It grants you and your team access to a wide variety of call management features plus AI assistance without breaking the bank. The low-tier plan is recommended for small businesses, while the high-tier plans are advisable for mid-sized companies, corporations, or contact centers.

Pricing

Dialpad offers three types of plans that vary in terms of pricing and features. Check out the chart below to discover how these packages stack up to each other:

Price

$15/user/month

$25/user/month

Contact Dialpad for quote

VoIP Communications

Unlimited calls, SMS & MMS + limited meetings + 3 ring groups

Unlimited calls, SMS, MMS & meetings + 25 ring groups

Unlimited calls, SMS, MMS, meetings & ring groups

Call Management

Phone Numbers

1 local number/user

1 local number/user + additional local or international numbers

1 local number/user + additional local or international numbers + extensions

Office Locations

Unlimited

Collaboration

Contact syncing + analytics & reporting

AI-powered Auto Attendant

Software App Support

Dedicated VoIP Hardware

Integrations

G Suite & Office 365 integrations

G Suite, Office 365, CRM & productivity tool integrations

G Suite, Office 365, CRM, productivity tool & IAM/SSO integrations

Customer Service

24/5 support

24/7 support

To summarize, Dialpad presents you with three VoIP packages which you can choose from:

Standard
1. $15 per user/month
2. Minimum of 1 license

This basic plan is ideal for individual professionals or small business teams who wish to connect with colleagues and customers.

Pro
1. $25 per user/month
2. Minimum of 3 licenses

This advanced package is appropriate for multiple small teams or mid-sized business teams that want to simplify the way they communicate with various clients and co-workers.

Enterprise
1. Contact Dialpad to get a quote
2. Minimum of 100 licenses

This corporate plan is suitable for large companies or contact centers that reach out to a wide network of customers via VoIP systems or call center software.

Take note that these rates are applicable only if you sign up for annual billing. Higher rates apply if you subscribe to the monthly billing arrangement.

Dialpad Features

Dialpad has a strong set of features that improves the way you connect with your customers and workmates. In this Dialpad review, let’s dive deeper into the features of this VoIP caller, such as VoIP communications, call management, phone numbers, office locations, collaboration tools, auto attendant, software app support, hardware compatibility, third-party integrations, and customer service.

VoIP Communications

Dialpad equips you to reach out to your team members and clients in several important ways. All the plans allow you to make unlimited phone calls and send unlimited SMS or MMS messages. Plus, they give you the chance to participate in video conferencing and team chats.

While the basic communication capabilities of the three packages are the same, the advanced communication features of each plan differ slightly. For instance, the Standard package only includes limited meetings and three ring groups.

Dialpad Contact Center Review 2022 — *Source: Dialpad*

Next, the Pro plan comes with unlimited meetings and 25 ring groups. Finally, the Enterprise package tops them both by showcasing unlimited meetings and ring groups. Be sure to take your business communication needs into consideration as you pick a Dialpad plan.

Call Management

Dialpad makes it a breeze for you to monitor and handle your incoming and outgoing VoIP calls. All three plans boast a slew of call management features, such as call forwarding, call routing, call recording, voicemail transcription, custom voicemail greeting, and number forwarding.

For example, you can forward calls to your smartphone, to co-workers’ stations, or to external numbers. Plus, you can route calls to the appropriate agent or join conference calls via three-way calling to save time. Also, you can record an unlimited number of calls. On top of this, you can keep track of your voicemails through the transcription and playback services.

In this case, the only advantage which the Pro and Enterprise packages have over the Standard plan is the ability to hold queues. That’s why Dialpad has you covered in terms of call handling regardless of the package you select.

Phone Numbers

No matter which plan you subscribe to, Dialpad provides each user of your team with one local number. You also have the option to get additional local or international numbers if you go for the Pro or Enterprise package, although this privilege isn’t part of the Standard plan. Just keep in mind that you can only avail of number extensions if you pay for the Enterprise plan.

Nevertheless, number porting is available for all packages. As a result, you can carry over your existing toll-free, local, or international numbers from your previous phone provider to your new Dialpad system.

Office Locations

Dialpad uses office locations to represent physical workspaces or groups of team members. In addition to this, each office also serves as a basis for the computation of tax rates. Every Dialpad plan comes with a maximum number of office locations.

The Standard package only encompasses a single office, while the Pro plan accommodates up to 10 offices. If you don’t want any office number restrictions, the Enterprise package gives you free reign with unlimited office locations.

Collaboration

Dialpad makes it easier for you to collaborate with co-workers in your team and in other departments. It syncs contacts across the VoIP system so that the appropriate people can quickly access the customer database. Also, it analyzes relevant information and generates reports that will help you and your colleagues gain insights for improved planning.

Auto Attendant

Dialpad is well-regarded for its multi-level auto attendant that’s fueled by AI technology. It provides real-time recommendations so that your agents can instantly share AI-suggested answers to client questions. Plus, it enables them to resolve customer issues right away even without supervisor assistance.

In addition to this, Dialpad comes with tools that empower your sellers and managers to close sales deals, such as scripted responses and objection handling. It also has task automation capabilities that let you attach notes to your CRM platform and prepare the call review procedure.

On top of this, it allows you to keep track of real-time representative activities via leaderboards. Last but not least, Dialpad helps your customers to instantly search for information even without speaking to agents by automating customer touchpoints.

Software

Dialpad has a wide compatibility range when it comes to software support. After all, you can use the desktop app whether your computer is based on Windows or Mac OS. Aside from this, you can install the mobile app on your mobile device, which includes your smartphone whether it runs on Android or iOS.

Hardware

You should be aware that none of the Dialpad plans come with dedicated VoIP hardware. Still, you can use the Dialpad app for calling, messaging, and faxing with your existing laptops, mobile phones, or softphone devices for your business phone system.

Integrations

While all Dialpad plans include third-party integrations, the level of consolidation varies greatly depending on the package you subscribe to. For instance, the Standard plan only allows you to connect your VoIP phone system with basic productivity suites like G Suite and Office 365.

Nevertheless, the Pro package accommodates integrations with CRM systems like Salesforce and Hubspot, plus productivity tools like Slack, Zendesk, and Zapier. To level up the game, the Enterprise plan includes all these third-party integrations, while adding cloud services like Azure and Okta to the mix.

Make sure that the package you select is compatible with the essential programs your work team uses on a daily basis.

Customer Service

Dialpad provides customer service for all plans, although the level of support changes based on the tier you sign up for. On one hand, the Standard plan only includes 24/5 chat and web assistance, while the Pro and Enterprise packages both come with full 24/7 phone, web, and chat support. Plus, it’s just the Enterprise plan that falls under the Service Level Agreement (SLA).

On the other hand, the three packages equally grant you access to the knowledge base and community forum. To top things off, all Dialpad plans give you the option to get support-related add-ons, such as a dedicated account manager and professional deployment services.

Alternatives to Dialpad

Dialpad is a viable option for your business if you value AI-enhanced VoIP features. Still, you may check out other notable alternatives if you prioritize other aspects of VoIP services.

RingCentral

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RingCentral is a centralized VoIP system that enables you to make calls, host video meetings, write messages, and send faxes through a single app. It gives you the chance to gain new global, local, and toll-free numbers. Plus, it allows you to monitor system activity so that you can assess service quality, team performance, and system usage.

RingCentral is ideal for business teams that use video communications frequently. While Dialpad comes with video conferencing, RingCentral has a bigger focus on video meetings and messaging. However, keep in mind that RingCentral charges much higher rates than Dialpad, especially for the premium plans with progressive features. Also, Dialpad has an edge when it comes to AI technology.

Strong emphasis on video communications
One central app
Real-time analytics for phone calls & video meetings

Expensive pricing
Some advanced features available for high-tier plans only
Less focus on AI than Dialpad

Pricing:

RingCentral MVP

Essentials: $19.99/user/month
Standard: $27.99/user/month
Premium: $34.99/user/month
Ultimate: $49.99/user/month

*Rates applicable for annual billing

Freshdesk

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Freshdesk Omnichannel Suite is a contact center support solution that includes VoIP telephony and messaging features. It enables you to connect with clients via various channels like live-chat, mobile, and web. In addition to this, chatbots guide you to answer questions of callers.

Freshdesk is suitable for call centers that want to improve user experience (UX). It places more weight on prepping agents to provide excellent customer service to callers, while Dialpad aims for a fairly equal balance between team collaboration and client support.

Nevertheless, the more economical Dialpad offers more internal communication options than Freshdesk. Plus, Dialpad is a better all-purpose VoIP service than Freshdesk.

Designed to boost UX
Multiple channel options for customers
Chatbot assistance

Limited collaboration tools
Costly plan rates
Not as well-rounded as Dialpad

Pricing:

Freshdesk Omnichannel Suite

Growth Omnichannel: $29/agent/month
Pro Omnichannel: $59/agent/month
Enterprise Omnichannel: $99/agent/month

*Rates applicable for annual billing

Ooma

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Ooma is a VoIP provider that offers best voip cell phone, messaging, and video solutions for small businesses and enterprises alike. It showcases mobile apps and video conferencing tools that let you connect with colleagues and clients on the go. Aside from this, it comes with a virtual receptionist which directs callers to the right extension.

Ooma is appropriate for entrepreneurs who need scalable VoIP services for their growing business. The Ooma VoIP system is easy to personalize because it lets you add extra perks to the standard features. In comparison, Dialpad is also customizable to an extent, yet you need to upgrade to a higher plan to avail of some advanced functions. Still, the cheaper Dialpad comes with more built-in call management features plus more plan options than Ooma.

Adjustable VoIP services
Tools for remote work
Virtual receptionist assistance

Lacks some complex call management functions
Two plan options only
Steeper pricing than Dialpad

Pricing:

Ooma Business Phone Plans

Ooma Office: $19.95 per user/month
Ooma Office Pro: $24.95 per user/month

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Dialpad Review

Dialpad transforms the way that you contact your customers and workmates through VoIP calls and messaging. Discover the answers to essential questions about Dialpad and VoIP to evaluate if it’s a practical solution for you.

What Is Dialpad?

Dialpad is an all-purpose VoIP service for businesses which incorporates online calling, SMS plus MMS messaging, meetings, and ring groups. It comes with important VoIP features, such as communication tools, call management functions, phone numbers, office locations, collaborative tools, AI-enhanced auto attendant, software app support, hardware compatibility, third-party integrations, and customer support. The three Dialpad plans are Standard, Pro, and Enterprise.

What Is VoIP?

VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP). This communications technology offers business phone service. It makes it possible for you to make and receive calls over the internet instead of through an analog phone line, by converting the sound of your voice into digital signals which can be transmitted online.

What Is AI?

AI is short for Artificial Intelligence. While an AI system is based on an electronic machine or program, it’s designed to mimic human intelligence by making recommendations or creating predictions based on existing factors. AI can be applied to different types of technology, including VoIP solutions like Dialpad.

Should I Use Dialpad?

You may consider using Dialpad if you need a multifunctional VoIP system that fits your budget. It equips you to contact others for business or personal purposes without needing to invest in pricey plans. You could subscribe to the Standard plan if you have basic requirements and resources for your small business. As an alternative, you may sign up for the Pro or Enterprise package in case you have advanced requirements plus a slightly higher budget.

Bottom Line on Dialpad Review

Dialpad boosts your productivity by streamlining the way you communicate with your clients and colleagues. It’s a clever choice for you if you’re looking for a VoIP service that successfully blends together avant-garde AI assistance, ample call management features, and competitive pricing. We are optimistic that this Dialpad review has helped you decide if the VoIP ace of AI is a good match for your business or not.

June 13, 2022February 15, 2023

5 Best Free Business Banking Accounts of 2023

Business team discussing about free business banking account in a meeting office

Opening a free business banking account is a safe, affordable way to manage your professional finances. A business account, which is separate from your personal account, lets you easily track your trade resources. Plus, having a business account is a prerequisite for the essential step of registering a business in the U.S. Read on to find out which of the five best free business banking accounts of 2023 is a good match for you.

Best Free Business Banking Accounts of 2023

BlueVine – Best Overall
Novo – Best for Ease of Use
Brex – Best for Corporate Credit
Axos – Best for Cash Deposit
U.S. Bank – Best for Traditional Banking

BlueVine

Business checking account w/ debit card

No ATM fees at 37,000+ MoneyPass locations

Unlimited transactions

1.5% interest for eligible customers

Instant account transfers, dedicated account numbers & 2 free checkbooks

Online application

FDIC insurance up to $250,000

Novo

Business checking account w/ debit card

ATM fee refunds

$50

Unlimited transactions within the U.S.

Virtual & physical cards, free invoices, Novo Reserves & Stripe integration

Online application

FDIC insurance & security features

Brex

Business account w/ credit card

N/A

Unlimited ACH & wire sending but limited Brex-initiated ACH deposits & check deposits

0% for uninvested cash & 0.49% on money market fund

Create up to 8 accounts, automated monthly reports, investment options & live support

Online application

FDIC insurance via partner banks

Axos

Business checking account w/ debit card

Unlimited domestic ATM fee reimbursements

Unlimited item processing for debits, credits & deposits

0% for basic business checking

Cash deposits, QuickBooks integration, free checkbook & dedicated relationship managers

Online application

FDIC insurance via Axos Bank

U. S. Bank

Business checking account w/ debit card

No ATM fees at U.S. Bank ATMs

$100

125 free transactions per month +

$0.50 fee per additional transaction

0% for basic business checking

Bill Pay, free mobile check deposits, check fraud prevention & overdraft protection

Online application or via virtual, phone call or in-person appointment

Automatic FDIC insurance via U.S. Bank worth $250,000 per depositor

BlueVine: Best Overall

Free

★★★★★

5.0

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BlueVine shines among business banking accounts that are free because it combines minimal charges and maximum benefits. First of all, you don’t have to pay any monthly fees, transaction fees, or overdraft fees if you start a small business checking account. Also, you won’t be charged ATM fees if you withdraw at any of the 37,000+ MoneyPass locations in the U.S.

Plus, there’s no minimum initial deposit so you can open a business bank account even if your small business only has limited cash at present. You can deposit, withdraw, and make payments as often as you need. In addition to this, BlueVine gives you the chance to earn an Annual Percentage Yield (APY) of 1.5% on balances up to $100,000 if you meet one or both of the two monthly requirements.

Other benefits include instant transfers, sub-account options, dedicated account numbers, online application process, and two free checkbooks. Last but not least, your assets are protected because BlueVine deposits are insured up to $250,000 per depositor via the Coastal Community Bank, which is a member of the FDIC.

While BlueVine has a first-rate free business account, it does have a few limitations. For instance, it doesn’t have any physical branches because BlueVine isn’t a traditional bank but a financial technology company. Aside from this, you won’t earn any interest on excess amounts beyond $100,000. Finally, BlueVine doesn’t accept deposits of cash, paper checks, or foreign currency.

Nevertheless, our BlueVine review agrees that it’s one of the best deals when it comes to free bank accounts for businesses. Thanks to its strong feature set, it currently leads the pack when it comes to free and low-cost banking services.

Why we chose it: We award BlueVine as the best overall free business banking account because it provides an almost perfect balance between affordability and functionality. It’s a viable option for you if you want to experience the perks of online business banking without shelling out for costly monthly fees.

Pricing: $0 monthly fees & transaction fees

No monthly, overdraft, or transaction charges
Unlimited monthly transactions
1.5% interest rate for eligible depositors

No physical branches
Zero interest earnings beyond $100,000 balance
No cash, paper check, or foreign currency deposits

Novo: Best for Ease of Use

Free

★★★★★

4.5

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Novo is one of the most user-friendly business banking accounts that are free because it’s simple to set up in less than ten minutes. Plus, the online banking app allows you to make worldwide payments, deposit checks, transfer funds, and accept incoming wires. There are no monthly service charges, ACH fees, wire fees. Plus, you get free unlimited U.S. transactions and ATM fee reimbursements.

Aside from this, Novo has other features to make banking more convenient for you, such as physical and virtual debit cards, free invoice sending, Novo Reserves, Stripe integration, and payments via Apple and Google Play stores. Finally, Novo safeguards your resources through security features and FDIC insurance via Middlesex Federal Savings.

On the other end of the spectrum, it requires you to make a minimum deposit of $50 to open a checking account. In addition to this, it charges $27 each for insufficient funds and uncollected funds returned.

Also, it doesn’t give you a chance to earn interest through your deposits because Novo doesn’t provide an APY. Last but not least, you can’t directly deposit cash to your account, although you can buy a money order as a workaround solution.

Still, our Novo review concurs that it’s a free business account that’s worth considering, especially for beginners in business banking. Aside from its various handy features, it doesn’t require advanced banking knowledge or technical skills to begin using it. Check out also our review for other business banking accounts like Bank of America Review and NBKC Bank Account Review.

Why we chose it: We commend Novo as the best for ease of use among business banking accounts that are free because of its intuitive UI and fast application process. It’s a potential alternative for you if you’re a first-time entrepreneur because you can quickly figure out how to navigate Novo.

Pricing: $0 monthly fees & transaction fees

3-step application process
Free unlimited transactions plus ATM reimbursements
Extra features like Novo Reserves, Stripe integration & virtual card

Minimum initial deposit amount of $50
$27 fee for insufficient funds & uncollected funds returned
No direct cash deposits

Brex: Best for Corporate Credit

Free

★★★★★

4.0

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Brex stands out from other business banking accounts that are free because it provides you with credit options. It allows you to spend beyond your current balance so that you can fast-track the expansion of your business, compared to the typical online business checking account which only includes debit cards.

If you open a business account with Brex, you will get unlimited corporate credit cards which you can use for secure spending. Like a debit card, your balance can be paid automatically every day. However, it has an edge over a debit card because it enables you to build your business credit. Also, you can issue cards to your team with set limits so you can monitor their expenses. Plus, you can earn unlimited rewards without an expiry date.

To make things even better, Brex doesn’t have monthly fees, transaction charges, or minimum deposits. There’s free unlimited ACH and wires as well. Additional incentives include eight account creation, automated monthly reports, investment options, live customer support, and online application. Finally, you can store your assets with the partner banks of Brex so you can be eligible for FDIC insurance worth $250,000 at most.

On the other hand, the drawbacks of Brex include a lack of debit cards and limited Brex-initiated ACH deposits or check deposits. While there’s zero APY for uninvested cash, you can earn around 0.49% with the money market fund. Also, Brex doesn’t have physical locations since it’s a financial technology company, not a bank. Nevertheless, you can drop by any of its partner banks to deposit your uninvested cash.

At the end of the day, Brex is still an interesting alternative because it adds the flexibility of credit options to a business account.

Why we chose it: We acknowledge Brex as the best for corporate credit because of the broad range of credit services it provides. It’s a possible match for you in case you’re aiming to build your business credit as an entrepreneur.

Pricing: $0 monthly fees & transaction fees

Empowering credit options
Unlimited rewards via credit points
Creation of up to 8 accounts

No debit card
Limited check deposits & Brex-initiated ACH deposits
No physical branches

Axos: Best for Cash Deposit

Free

★★★★★

4.0

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Axos has the upper hand over other business banking accounts that are free when it comes to cash deposits. It allows you to deposit paper cash to your account through MoneyPass and AllPoint networks, in contrast to similar services that mostly permit online deposits.

Since Axos is a bank and not a financial company, it offers specialized online banking services like free Bill Pay, image statements, mobile banking services, and the personalized assistance of a dedicated relationship manager. Plus, it’s cost-effective to open a basic business checking account with Axos via online application.

There’s no monthly maintenance fees, minimum deposit, maintenance amounts, while there’s unlimited domestic ATM fee reimbursements and unlimited debit, credit, and deposit processing. Extra perks include free 50 checks, QuickBooks integration, and FDIC insurance via the Axos Bank.

On the downside, the Basic Business Checking account doesn’t offer any APY at all. Plus, you need to pay for international and domestic wire fees, although you’ll be reimbursed for two domestic wires every month. Finally, Axos doesn’t have any brick-and-mortar buildings because it’s an online bank instead of a conventional one.

Overall, Axos is still a practical option because it opens up the possibilities of cash deposits for entrepreneurs like you. Read our in-depth review on Axos bank to learn more about its services. And visit also our other business banking account review like Oxygen Review.

Oxygen Review 2023: Cost-Effective Champion of Business Bank Accounts

Why we chose it: We selected Axos as the best for cash deposit among business banking accounts that are free because it permits you to deposit actual cash to your free account via AllPoint and MoneyPass networks. It could be a suitable fit for you if you often make cash deposits during your business operations.

Pricing: $0 monthly fees & transaction fees

Cash deposits allowed
Free 50 checks & QuickBooks integration
FDIC insurance via Axos Bank

Zero APY for Basic Business Checking account
International & domestic wire charges
No physical bank locations

U.S. Bank: Best for Traditional Banking

Free

★★★★★

4.0

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The U.S. Bank’s Silver Business Checking Package is distinct from most business banking accounts that are free because it’s offered by an established bank, instead of a financial technology company. Unlike free accounts that are limited to online transactions, you can personally go to physical bank branches if you select U.S. Bank.

While the U.S. Bank allows you to apply online like most free bank account providers, it also gives you the choice to apply via virtual appointment, phone call, or face to face meeting. This personalized assistance is handy if you’re a newbie to business banking.

The other standout U.S. Bank features are online plus mobile banking, check fraud prevention tools, and Business Reserve line. Since U.S. Bank is a member of the FDIC, you will automatically get FDIC insurance worth $250,000 per depositor.

Nevertheless, U.S. Bank’s free business account comes with less freebies compared to the other banking accounts in this list. While there’s no monthly maintenance fees or U.S. Bank ATM charges, you only get 125 free transactions each month. Plus, you must deposit a hefty minimum of $100 to open a basic checking account. Other limitations include zero APY for the Silver account and no free checkbooks.

To sum it up, the U.S. Bank gives entrepreneurs like you the chance to experience the services of an orthodox bank even if you can’t afford all the expensive banking fees. Read our in-depth review on U.S. bank to learn more about its services. We also have reviews on other business banking accounts like Capital One Review and SoFI Review.

Why we chose it: We pick U.S. Bank as the best for traditional banking among free business accounts because it provides the basic perks of a conventional bank while skipping some, though not all, of the typical banking fees. It’s a good match for you if you prefer to sign up with an established bank rather than a financial technology company.

Pricing: $0 monthly fees & $0.50 fee per additional transaction beyond 125 free transactions per month

Brick-and-mortar bank locations
Various application method options, including in-person application
Check fraud prevention & overdraft protection

Minimum deposit amount of $100
Zero APY for basic business account
No free checkbook

Methodology for the Best Free Business Banking Account

We considered important factors as we picked the best business banking accounts that are free of 2023. These aspects include the banking service type, monthly fees, transaction charges, ATM fees, minimum deposit amount, maximum transactions each month, Annual Percentage Yield (APY), notable features, application process, and security options.

Banking Service Type: We examined if the free business bank account is a checking one or a savings one. Plus, we confirmed if it comes with a debit card or a credit card.
Monthly Fee: We checked if you need to pay monthly charges or not for general services and maintenance as a depositor. After all, we only categorized a business account as free if there are zero monthly fees.
Transaction Fee: We assessed if you’re required to pay fees or not to perform basic banking transactions like deposits, withdrawals, and transfers. Whenever applicable, we also analyzed if you will be charged for advanced types of transactions like wires and ACH.
ATM Fee: We researched if you will be charged to use ATM machines, whether they be in-house, affiliated, or external ones. Also, we probed if the bank account provider will reimburse you for ATM fees or not.
Minimum Deposit: We checked if there is any minimum amount of deposit or not required for you to open a business bank account. In case there is a basic deposit requirement, we pinpointed how much the amount is.
Maximum Transactions per Month: We verified if you’re allowed to perform an unlimited or limited number of free transactions every month. In case there is a cap to item processing number, we confirmed how many free transactions you’re allotted on a monthly basis.
Annual Percentage Yield (APY): We assessed if you have the chance to earn interest through the free bank account or not. In case it offers an APY, we researched what the average interest rate is each year.
Additional Features: We analyzed what other extra features are included in the free business account. Some examples of handy offerings are Bill Pay, cash deposits, free checkbooks, third-party integrations, and live support.
Application Process: We explored what type of application procedure you need to undergo to open a business bank account. Most providers require an online application process, although a few also offer other options.
Security: We probed how safe your money is if you store it in a free business account. We confirmed if your deposit is covered by FDIC insurance, as well as if other security features are available.

Take note that this guide generally covers general banking, debit, and credit options. We already discussed alternatives for small business loans in another review.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Free Business Banking Account

A free business banking account makes it simple for you to handle your business resources. Learn the answers to basic questions about a complimentary business account for startups.

What Is a Business Banking Account?

A business banking account is a type of bank account that is designed to be used exclusively for business transactions. It is typically opened using a business name instead of an individual name so that payment can be sent and received on behalf of the organization. Some bank accounts are suitable for small businesses, while there are appropriate business bank accounts for LLCs or corporations.

What Are the Benefits of a Free Business Banking Account?

There are several advantages of opening a free business banking account. To begin with, you can manage your money in an organized way by keeping your business and personal finances separate.

In addition to this, you can streamline the way that you perform bank transactions through online and mobile banking. Last but not least, you can skip some kinds of fees with a free account, such as monthly fees, ATM charges, and transaction fees.

How Can I Pick the Right Free Business Banking Account?

There are various factors that you should consider when choosing a free business banking account. First, you need to assess which fees are waived and which fees are required so that you can estimate your banking expenses.

Next, you ought to evaluate if the account provides you with the features you need for your business operations, such as unlimited transactions, instant transfers, cash deposits, and Bill Pay.

Finally, you must verify if your cash is protected through FDIC insurance and security options. No matter which type of business account you select, you can maximize your account by following FDIC banking tips.

Final Thoughts on the Best Free Business Banking Accounts

Starting a free business banking account is one of the necessary steps you need to take as an entrepreneur to ensure the financial success of your business. BlueVine is our top pick among the best free business accounts of 2023 because it’s freebie-rich and feature-packed at the same time. Don’t forget also to check out other business banking accounts and our reviews of them like Lili Review and Kabbage Review

Best Business Bank Accounts by State

Below you will find an interactive U.S map that can help you locate and compare different banks and financial institutions that offer business accounts in your area.

June 6, 2022February 24, 2023

Bluehost Review: Flexible, Famous Web Host Provider

Bluehost makes it a breeze for you to build and manage business websites, whether you’re a beginner or a pro. It matches any level of web hosting budget and needs, thanks to its flexible options, easy to use features, and strong customer support.

Get ready to dive deeper into the pricing, features, pros, and cons of this famous, flexible web hosting service in our Bluehost review. Discover if Bluehost is the perfect fit for your business.

Our Verdict

Bluehost

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Bluehost is a potential match for your business no matter what your web host requirements are, due to its versatility, user-friendly interface, and solid support. First, it provides a broad range of plans which you can choose from.

Plus, the platform is easy to use and navigate whether you’re a newbie or a veteran of web hosting. Last but not least, you gain access round-the-clock customer service regardless of your package.

While Bluehost comes with a lot of perks, it does have certain limitations too. For instance, the pricing presentation isn’t straightforward so it’s challenging to figure out how much exactly you’ll pay each month. Also, the low-tier plans lack some advanced features of high-tier plans. Lastly, all plans only come with one free domain, even the expensive ones.

Overall, Bluehost is one of the best web hosting companies for small businesses that you can find in the market at present.

Pricing: Starts at $9.99/month

Wide variety of available plans
Simple, streamlined UI
24/7 support for all plans

Confusing pricing
Limited features of basic plans
Single free domain only for all packages

Bluehost at a Glance

Visual representation of Bluehost hosting website statistics — *Source: Bluehost*

Bluehost is a popular web hosting provider that offers multiple levels of hosting services. It guides you in the various stages of the website creation and maintenance process. To start with, it equips you to register a domain name and design a business site. Afterwards, it enables you to manage your website via insightful analytics and data protection. Moving forward, the scalable tools allow you to upgrade your site as your business grows.

In 2003, the web hosting company was established by Matt Heaton and Danny Ashworth in Provo, Utah. Today, Bluehost powers more than 2 million websites all over the globe. Plus, the Bluehost team is currently composed of over 750 employees who are committed to meeting the hosting needs of customers.

Bluehost shines among web hosting sites because its flexibility gives you room to pick the perfect plan. You can benefit from its features, such as website hosting, domain registration, server support, traffic management, bandwidth, storage, speed, website tools, security certification, and customer service.

Who Bluehost Is Best For

Bluehost is actually a viable option for a wide range of business users because of its versatile alternatives, unlike other hosting services that cater to certain users only. At the end of the day, it all boils down to which plan and tier is suitable for you.

For example, the Shared Hosting packages are ideal for startups and small businesses that have a limited budget for hosting solutions. Aside from this, the VPS Hosting plans work well for mid-sized or growing businesses with developing hosting needs. The Dedicated Server Hosting packages are ideal for large companies and corporations who can afford premium services for advanced hosting requirements.

Pricing

Bluehost offers three main types of web hosting plans, which are divided into several tiers with different rates and features. Check out the chart below to get an overview of the hosting packages.

Price

Starts at $9.99/month

Starts at $29.99/month

Starts at $124.99/month

Website Hosting

1 to unlimited websites

Unlimited websites

Domain Registration

1 free domain registration

Server Type

Shared server

Virtual private server

Dedicated single-tenant server

Traffic Management

Low-traffic websites & blogs

Expanding websites w/ growing traffic

High-traffic websites

Bandwidth

Unmetered

1 TB to 3 TB

5 TB to 15 TB

Storage

50 GB to unmetered website space

30 GB to 120 GB SSD SAN Storage

2 x 500 GB to 1,000 GB RAID Level 1 Storage

Speed

Standard to high performance

2.2 Ghz CPU

2.3 to 3.3 Ghz CPU

Website Tools

WordPress website builder + Custom themes

cPanel + WHM w/ Root

Security

Free SSL certificate + SpamExperts & CodeGuard Basic for higher tiers + Premium SSL certificate for highest tier

Free SSL certificate + Premium SSL certificates & SpamExperts as add-ons

Customer Support

24/7 customer support

24/7 VPS support

24/7 customer service + Dedicated, expedited support

To sum things up, Bluehost has three main categories of hosting plans. Each category has its own range of tier levels:

Shared Hosting
1. Basic: $9.99/month
2. Plus: $13.99/month
3. Choice Plus: $18.99/month
4. Pro: $28.99/month
VPS Hosting
1. Standard: $29.99/month
2. Enhanced: $59.99/month
3. Premium: $89.99/month
4. Ultimate: $119.99/month
Dedicated Server Hosting
1. Standard: $124.99/month
2. Enhanced: $169.99/month
3. Premium: $209.99/month

Aside from the varied tier alternatives, Bluehost is also generous when it comes to contract length options. Bluehost contracts can be as short as one month or as long as 36 months, unlike most providers which only give you a choice between monthly or annual arrangements. The current rates we included in this review are applicable for annual billing agreements. Lower rates are available for longer contracts, while higher rates apply for shorter contracts.

Just be careful as you review the pricing terms of the Bluehost plans you’re interested in. The pricing scheme can be confusing because the Bluehost website usually highlights the promo price for each package, even if this discounted rate is only applicable to the first month. Head to the list of regular rates to learn how much you’ll really pay on a regular basis.

Bluehost Features

Screenshot of Bluehost benefits — *Source: Bluehost*

Bluehost is a well-balanced hosting provider because it’s got most bases covered when it comes to hosting services. In this Bluehost review, let’s take a closer look at the most important features of this hosting solution. These features include website hosting, domain registration, server type, traffic management, bandwidth, storage, speed, website tools, security options, and customer support.

Website Hosting

Through website hosting, Bluehost provides you a secure virtual space where you can post your business site so internet users can access it. There’s probably a fitting Bluehost website hosting service for you, no matter what kind or how many websites you’re planning to put up.

The cheapest tier of the Shared Hosting plan includes hosting for a single website, while the pricier tiers allow you to host unlimited websites. Similarly, all tiers of the VPS Hosting package come with hosting services for as many websites as you like. Finally, it’s up to you how many websites you wish to host via Dedicated Server Hosting since you have full control over the system.

Domain Registration

Screenshot of domain names offered by Bluehost — *Source: Bluehost*

The domain name is the URL address of your website which is associated with an IP address. All the plans and tiers of Bluehost uniformly come with a single free domain registration. While it’s a good perk for the low-end plans, it’s a shortcoming for the high-end plans since you won’t get more free domains even if you’re paying more expensive rates.

Server Type

The type of server which hosts your business website is the main difference among the Bluehost plans. For instance, the Shared Hosting plan entails sharing a server with other websites. While it’s a clever way to cut down on expenses, it means you’ll be splitting server resources with other users.

As an alternative, the VPS Hosting package gives you the advantage of your own virtual server. Although it costs more than shared hosting, it does come with fully dedicated server resources and computing power.

Last but not least, the Dedicated Server Hosting plan grants you the benefit of your very own single-tenant server. Just be prepared to shell out major bucks for dedicated hosting. Still, there’s no limit to the ways you can optimize or customize your exclusive server resources.

Traffic Management

The level of website traffic your business websites can handle will depend on the Bluehost plan you sign up for. For example, the Shared Hosting plan is meant for simple websites and blogs, which typically encounter fairly light traffic.

In addition to this, the VPS Hosting package is appropriate for expanding sites with growing traffic that require more control and power. Finally, the Dedicated Server Hosting plan is designed to handle high traffic for complex sites that call for maximum performance and speed.

Bandwidth

Bandwidth describes the maximum data which can be transmitted over the internet during a particular period of time. The bandwidth capacity of Bluehost varies based on the plan you select.

On one hand, the Shared Hosting package has an unmetered bandwidth within reasonable use so there’s no need to worry about overage fees. On the other hand, both the VPS Hosting and Dedicated Server Hosting plans have bandwidth limitations. The monthly caps of VPS Hosting ranges from 1 TB to 3 TB, while the limits of the Dedicated Server Hosting extend from 5 TB to 15 TB.

Storage

Bluehost provides storage for your websites so you can upload and store data like text, media, documents, and files. However, both the amount and type of storage differs according to your plan and tier.

The Shared Hosting plan comes with 50 GB or unmetered website space, but you can only keep a maximum of 200,000 to 300,000 files. While the VPS Hosting package only includes 30 GB to 120 GB space, you get faster access to your files because of the snappy SSD SAN storage. To round things up, the Dedicated Server Hosting gives you 2 x 500 GB to 1,000 GB RAID Level 1 Storage which makes data recovery possible.

Speed

Speed matters when it comes to web hosting since it determines how productive you are in web maintenance and how engaged your audience is in site browsing. Bluehost assures users that the Shared Hosting plan is capable of standard to high performance, although it doesn’t give exact speed measurements.

With better detail, the VPS Hosting package promises lightning fast performance because it combines a 2.2 Ghz CPU and a quick SSD hard drive. To top it off, the Dedicated Server Hosting plan is built for extremely swift performance because it’s powered by 2.3 to 3.3 Ghz CPU. Also, you have the flexibility to upgrade the system for more impressive performance in the future.

Website Tools

Screenshot of Bluehost website SEO tools — *Source: Bluehost*

Bluehost equips you to create your own business sites through website tools, although the platform you’ll be using depends on your plan. On one hand, the Shared Hosting package comes with an intuitive WordPress website builder. On the other hand, both the VPS Hosting and Dedicated Server Hosting plans come with cPanel plus WebHost Manager (WHM) with root access.

Security

All Bluehost plans have security features which protect the privacy of your websites. The lower tiers of Shared Hosting come with a free SSL certificate, while the highest tier includes a premium SSL certificate. Also, the upper tiers give you limited access to SpamExperts and CodeGuard Basic services.

You might be disappointed to learn that both VPS Hosting and Dedicated Server Hosting only grant you a free SSL certificate, especially if you’re expecting more because of the premium pricing. As a consolation, you do have the option to purchase premium SSL certificates and SpamExperts as add-on security options.

Customer Support

Bluehost has exceptional customer service because all plans come with 24/7 hosting support. If you signed up for Shared Hosting, you may call or chat with the support team anytime if you have questions about your website or account. On top of this, VPS Hosting comes with expert VPS support, while Dedicated Server Hosting includes expedited support from agents who specialize in dedicated hosting issues.

Alternatives to Bluehost

Bluehost works well as a web host provider for you if you prioritize elasticity when it comes to selecting a hosting plan. Still, there are other options you can consider if other factors are more important to you.

AWS Web Hosting

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Amazon Web Services (AWS) is a cloud web hosting provider which boasts over 200 web services. Our AWS Web Hosting review explains how it lets you build your own personalized plan by mixing and matching hosting services. Plus, it supports many platforms like WordPress, Joomla, Drupal, Java, PHP, Ruby, .Net, and Node.js.

AWS Web Hosting is ideal for business owners that prefer a pay-per-service arrangement. You only have to pay for the services you use, in contrast to Bluehost which has bundled features per plan. Nevertheless, AWS requires more technical skills than Bluehost since you must know how to put together the right services to optimize your plan. Also, Bluehost has an edge over AWS in terms of 24/7 customer service and built-in cPanel support.

Scalable pricing
Customizable services
Multiple platform compatibility

Technical expertise needed
Payment needed for advanced customer service
cPanel tools only available as add-ons

Pricing:

Amazon Lightsail: Starts at $3.50/month
AWS Amplify: Starts at $0
Amazon S3: Starts at $0
Amazon EC2: Starts at $0

WP Engine

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WP Engine is a WordPress hosting solution for small businesses and enterprises. Our WP Engine review elaborates how it equips you to maintain websites, boost performance, and safeguard your privacy. On top of this, it showcases ecommerce solutions which prepare you to start an online store so you can sell products and services over the internet.

WP Engine is appropriate for entrepreneurs who exclusively use WordPress to create websites. Although Bluehost does support WordPress, WP Engine has a greater focus on this web platform. However, Bluehost is better than WP Engine when it comes to free domains, affordable hosting pricing, and number of plan options. Other than WP Engine, here are other web hosting services for ecommerce.

Specializes in WordPress
Dedicated ecommerce services
Strong security features

No free domain registration
Higher starting price than Bluehost
Limited plan alternatives

Pricing:

Managed WordPress: Starts at $25/month
eCommerce Solutions: Starts at $30/month
Advanced Solutions: Contact WP Engine to get quote

*Rates for annual billing

InfinityFree

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InfinityFree is one of the best free web hosting services for startups. After all, you don’t need to pay anything to take advantage of website hosting with PHP and MySQL. Aside from having no time limits, you can also set up as many ad-free websites as you wish.

InfinityFree is suitable for small business owners who have little to no budget for web hosting. It offers a completely free web host plan without hidden charges, compared to Bluehost which only has paid packages. Still, Bluehost is miles ahead of InfinityFree in terms of storage space, server power, and advanced features.

Free web hosting platform
Unlimited websites
Zero ads

Small 5GB disk space only
Limited server resources
Lacks features for power users

Pricing:

InfinityFree: $0
Super Premium: $3.99/month
Ultimate Premium: $6.90/month

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Bluehost Review

Bluehost gives you the chance to tailor your plan selection based on your specific web hosting needs. Find out the answers to basic questions about Bluehost and web hosting if you’re interested in hosting services.

What Is Bluehost?

Bluehost is a web host provider that streamlines the way you build websites through development tools and hosting services. It was founded in 2003 by Danny Ashworth and Matt Heaton in Provo, Utah. The three plan categories are Shared Hosting, VPS Hosting, and Dedicated Server Hosting. The main features include website hosting, domain registration, server hosting, traffic management, bandwidth, storage, speed, website tools, security certification, and customer support.

What Is Web Hosting?

Web hosting is a type of online service where a provider hosts websites on behalf of customers. Clients can rent or buy virtual space where they can put up their websites so that visitors can access the pages.

Aside from hosting services, providers also offer other services like domain registration, web development tools, and analytics. Web hosting is increasing in popularity all over the world, based on the web hosting revenue projection worth $76.92 billion in 2022.

What Are the Benefits of Bluehost?

There are several perks which you can experience if you choose Bluehost. To start with, it generously presents you with a rich set of plan alternatives. Also, it’s easy to learn how to use the tools and user interface so you can make the most out of the features right away. Finally, you can request for technical assistance from the Bluehost support team any time of the day or night. You can also ask for expert advice on VPS or dedicated hosting if you go for the high-end plans.

What’s the Difference Between Bluehost Server Types?

Bluehost servers differ in terms of resource allocation and pricing. When it comes to server resources, a shared server divides power among various users. In contrast, the VPS and dedicated servers come with fully dedicated resources for high-speed performance. In terms of pricing, shared hosting has the cheapest rates, dedicated hosting has the steepest pricing, and VPS falls somewhere in between.

Which Website Platforms Are Bluehost Compatible With?

Bluehost is compatible with website platforms like WordPress and cPanel. WordPress.org is a free open-source software that enables you to easily design websites, whether you’re a first-timer or long-time user. cPanel is an automated site management platform which you can configure based on your requirements. It utilizes WHM, an administrative web tool which lets you control the backend of cPanel accounts.

Bottom Line on Bluehost Review

Bluehost gives you freedom to create and maintain websites for your business according to your basic or advanced hosting needs. It’s easy for you to pick a plan that perfectly suits your hosting requirements and budget, given the abundant plan alternatives, intuitive features, and reliable support.

We hope our Bluehost review has enlightened you if this famously flexible and flexibly famous web host service is the best match for your business or not.

June 2, 2022November 23, 2022

5 Fastest Growing Cryptocurrencies in 2023

Person holding a fast growing cryptocurrency

Cryptocurrency is a digital currency that you can directly buy, sell, or trade online on crypto exchange platforms. The benefit of virtual coins and tokens is that they can be circulated without supervision from a central monetary authority. The fastest growing cryptocurrencies may be the best choice for you if you’re looking to invest or trade digital assets.

While the cryptocurrency market is generally volatile, we assessed which cryptocurrencies have increased in overall value over the years. Learn which fastest growing cryptocurrency is a worthy investment for you.

Best Fastest Growing Cryptocurrency Options in 2023

Bitcoin – Best Overall
Ethereum – Best for Versatility
Ripple – Best for Cross Currency Transactions
Binance – Best for Usefulness
Solana – Best for Speed

Overall Value Growth Rate

35,965,150% increase from 2010 to 2022

167,514.4% increase from 2015 to 2022

3,167.10% increase from 2017 to 2022

175,294% increase from 2017 to 2022

5,364,900% increase from 2020 to 2022

Starting Value

$0.08 as of July 2010

$1.25 as of August 2015

$0.76 as of March 2017

$0.17 as of September 2017

$0.001 as of July 2020

Current Value (As of May 2022)

$28,772.20 as of May 19, 2022

$2,095.18 as of May 18, 2022

$24.83 as of May 10, 2022

$298.17 as of May 17, 2022

$53.65 as of May 17, 2022

Cryptocurrency Coin Supply (As of May 11, 2022)

Current supply: 19.04 million
Maximum supply: 21 million

Current supply: 120.73 million
Maximum supply: Unlimited

Current supply: 48,343.10 million
Maximum supply: 100,000 million

Current supply: 163.28 million
Maximum supply: 165.12 million

Current supply: 336.79 million
Maximum supply: Unlimited

Inflationary or Deflationary

Deflationary

Inflationary transitioning to deflationary

Deflationary

Dis-inflationary inflation schedule

Accessibility Level

Everyone can participate

Open access to all

Open to all

Accessible to everyone

Open to everybody

Platform Type

Decentralized peer-to-peer payment network & open-source platform

Decentralized finance (DeFi) system & open-source platform

Open-source, permissionless & decentralized XRP Ledger

Borderless payment technology & open access learning hub

Decentralized blockchain & open network

Payment Scope

Worldwide payments

Global payments

Worldwide, cross currency payments

Global payments

Worldwide payments

Bitcoin: Best for Innovation

Overall Value Growth Rate: 35,965,150% increase from 2010 to 2022

4.5

★★★★★

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Bitcoin (BTC) is our top pick because it fuses together first-rate innovation and highest overall value growth rate among the cryptocurrencies in this list.

It’s widely acknowledged for its innovative technology because it’s the very first cryptocurrency to exist in the market. It started as the invention of Satoshi Nakamoto, who published a cryptography mailing list containing the first Bitcoin specification and proof of concept. While Satoshi exited the project in late 2010, the Bitcoin community of developers continue to improve this groundbreaking digital currency up to today.

As a pioneer in the cryptocurrency industry, Bitcoin initiated the use of blockchain, which is a ledger that logs transactions across multiple computer networks. Plus, it popularized the online payment system where virtual money is traded. It paved the way for the first ever decentralized peer-to-peer payment network, where users can directly transact with each other without the need for governing authorities.

Screenshot from Bitcoin website home page — *Source: Bitcoin*

Based on an open-source platform, Bitcoin has no owners who control it so everyone is free to participate in Bitcoin trades. The issuing of digital coins is also performed collectively by the network. As a result, Bitcoin has grown into a household name that is used for worldwide payments.

Aside from being a trailblazer in the cryptocurrency field, another important asset of Bitcoin is how its value has skyrocketed since its humble beginnings. After all, it boasts an astounding 35,965,150% overall growth from 2010 to 2022. While the early historical Bitcoin price was only $0.08 back in late July 2010, its current Bitcoin price is estimated at $28,772.20 as of May 19, 2022. Since its purchasing power increases over time, it can be counted as a deflationary currency.

While Bitcoin has advantages, you must be aware that it has certain disadvantages as well. For instance, Bitcoin pricing is considered to have a volatile pattern. While its general value has grown over the years, its price has a tendency to go up and down from month to month.

In addition to this, it issued only a limited number of finite coins, which may potentially cause a shortage in the future. As of May 11, 2022, the actual supply in circulation is 19.04 million coins, but the total maximum supply is just 21 million coins.

Even if many new players are now catching the attention of cryptocurrency users, Bitcoin still remains a major player in the cryptocurrency market because of its continuous growth and cutting-edge contributions to the industry.

Why we chose it: We award Bitcoin as the best overall because of its groundbreaking innovative technology and exponential rise in value. It’s a good match for you if you want to be part of the movement that jump started the cryptocurrency revolution.

Screenshot of Bitcoin transaction history page — *Source: Bitcoin*

Impressive overall growth of value over time
Pioneering leader in cryptocurrency field
Groundbreaking blockchain technology
Peer-to-peer payment network open to all

Price swings up & down during short-term periods
Finite coins nearing maximum supply

Pricing: $28,772.20 as of May 19, 2022

Ethereum: Best for Versatility

Overall Value Growth Rate: 167,514.4% from 2015 to 2022

4.0

★★★★★

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Ethereum (ETH) is well-known for its versatile cryptocurrency Ether because it’s based on scalable and programmable blockchain technology. On one hand, it gives cryptocurrency users like you the chance to use virtual assets and data-friendly services. On the other hand, it’s also preferred by many program developers since the platform equips them to create non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and multiple applications.

Aside from its adjustability, Ethereum has other crucial strengths. For example, the decentralized finance (DeFi) system is accessible to everybody because it’s founded on an open-source program. As a result, it enables you to transfer virtual funds directly to and from other people all over the globe. Aside from this, it can function as a banking tool for everyone. All you need is an internet connection to tap into savings, borrowing, and lending solutions.

Screenshot of Ethereum website home page — *Source: Ethereum*

In addition to this, Ethereum serves as a secure environment for financial transactions. Your customers will feel more confident to transact with you, thanks to the built-in guarantee that the funds will be transferred only after you provide them with the promised product or service. Plus, your information will stay safe because you aren’t required to share all your personal data just to use the Ethereum app.

On top of this, Ethereum showcases a whopping growth in its overall value, with a 167,514.4% increase from 2015 to 2022. While it started with a low price of $1.25 back in August 2015, the present price of Ethereum is now approximately $2,095.18 as of May 18, 2022. Last but not least, there is an unlimited supply of Ether coins, with the current supply at 120.73 million coins as of May 11, 2022.

Although Ethereum has many strengths, it admittedly has a few weaknesses as well. For example, it can be confusing to figure out how the purchasing power increases and decreases, because the system is presently transitioning from inflationary to deflationary. Plus, the network tends to consume a high amount of energy during its operations, although future upgrades will hopefully minimize the energy usage.

Still, Ethereum is a noteworthy cryptocurrency then and now. Launched in 2015, the introductory paper was published by founder Vitalik Buterin in 2014. The digital currency continues to evolve through the joint efforts of the Ethereum community

Why we chose it: We commend Ethereum as the best for versatility among cryptocurrencies. After all, it gives you the ability to scale and adjust the platform, as well as the applications you develop through it, based on your business preferences and requirements.

Adaptable platform enables multiple app creations
Exponential growth of overall value over time
Cryptocurrency and banking tools accessible to all
Unlimited coin supply
Secure transaction guarantee

Ongoing adjustment of purchasing power system
Big energy consumption of network operations

Pricing: $2,095.18 as of May 18, 2022

Ripple: Best for Cross Currency Transactions

Overall Value Growth Rate: 3,167.10% increase from 2017 to 2022

4.0

★★★★★

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Ripple (XRP) excels when it comes to affordable, accessible cross-border transactions. After all, it allows you to transfer and trade different types of currencies. The cheap fees only cost approximately $0.0002 per transaction.

Plus, the XRP Ledger has a solid open-source foundation which equips you to create applications in an efficient way. The decentralized, carbon-neutral technology enables you to settle transactions in as fast as three to five seconds.

Lastly, Ripple has exhibited major overall value growth over the years, with a 3,167.10% increase from 2017 to 2022. The rate was merely $0.76 back in March 2017, yet the Ripple price rose to $24.83 as of May 10, 2022.

Nevertheless, Ripple has certain limitations as well. For instance, there’s a possibility that more coins will unexpectedly get introduced into the market and suddenly affect the value of the digital coins. After all, only 48,343.10 million coins are in circulation as of May 11, 2022, while the maximum supply of this deflationary cryptocurrency is 100,000 million.

Also, you need to be aware that the SEC filed a lawsuit on registration issues against Ripple back in December 2020. However, the issue is settled for now since Ripple won a lawsuit against SEC this April 2022. Finally, the XRP blockchain is more complicated than typical blockchains so it can be perplexing to figure out how exactly it works.

In general, Ripple is a practical alternative to conventional banking when it comes to cross-border transfers and trades. The XRP Ledger, which was developed by David Schwartz, Jed McCaleb, and Arthur Britto, was launched back in June 2012. Along with Chris Larsen, they founded the NewCoin company, which was renamed OpenCoin and is now known as Ripple.

Why we chose it: We acknowledge Ripple as the best for cross currency transactions because it’s useful for trading various kinds of currencies. It’s a wise selection for you if you plan on swapping multiple currencies, instead of sticking to just a few.

Screenshot of Ripple website homepage — Source: Ripple

Compatible with different currencies
Quick, economical transactions
Significant growth in value over time

Potential for sudden coin supply releases
Once involved in a legal battle with SEC
Confusing to understand how it works

Pricing: $24.83 as of May 10, 2022

Binance: Best for Usefulness

Overall Value Growth Rate: 175,294% increase from 2017 to 2022

4.0

★★★★★

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Binance (BNB) has an edge over other cryptocurrency options because it can be used for a wide variety of purposes. BNB, which is the virtual coin that powers the BNB Chain ecosystem, enables you to buy, sell, trade, and hold more than 600 types of cryptocurrencies. Learn more on how to trade crypto here.

Aside from the usual digital transactions, you can also use BNB to make global payments, book travel tickets and hotels, and purchase entertainment packages. It also allows you to subscribe to online services and create financial arrangements. Plus, this borderless payment technology is accessible to all because Binance is an open access learning hub.

Screenshot of Binance dashboard mobile and PC views — Source: Binance

In addition to this, Binance protects your online transactions through industry-grade security features to minimize the risk of cyber crime. For instance, it stores 10% of trading fees in a Secure Asset Fund for Users (SAFU) for safety purposes. It also provides you with customized access so you can control which devices and addresses are authorized to open your account. Plus, it safeguards your personal information and transaction data through end-to-end encryption.

You can manage your BNBs using different devices since it’s compatible with most popular operating systems. For example, you can download the app to your Android or iOS smartphone or tablet. You may also install the desktop client in your computer, whether it’s running on Windows, MacOS, or Linux.

On top of this, Binance has experienced massive growth over the years, with a huge 175,294% increase from 2017 to 2022. Although its price was only $0.17 back in September 2017, the Binance coin price is now approximately $298.17 as of May 17, 2022.

Although Binance has major perks, this deflationary digital currency comes with certain drawbacks as well. One of these cons is that it only issued a limited supply of virtual coins. Even more importantly, 163.28 million is already in circulation out of the 165.12 million maximum supply as of May 11, 2022.

Aside from this, Binance has a steep learning curve. Since it has many features, it may take time for you to figure out how to maximize each function. Plus, you may possibly be intimidated by all the available options in the desktop program or mobile app. Last but not least, keep in mind that U.S. users of Binance can trade with less cryptocurrencies compared to other global users.

At the end of the day, Binance is still a highly utilitarian cryptocurrency ecosystem that holds its own in the industry. It was launched by Changpeng Zhao a.k.a. CZ back in July 2017. The BNB Chain ecosystem developed and grew over time through the cooperation of the Binance community.

Why we chose it: We award Binance as the best for usefulness among cryptocurrency alternatives because it has a broad range of functions. It may be suitable for you if you need a digital currency platform that you can use for other purposes beyond basic online payments and trading.

Binance mobile dashboard page screenshot — *Source: Binance*

Multiple functions involving payments, travel, entertainment, services & finances
Enormous growth of overall value
Industry-grade security measures
Wide compatibility with desktop & mobile OSes

Limited supply of coins mostly in circulation
High learning curve

Pricing: $298.17 as of May 17, 2022

Solana: Best for Speed

Overall Value Growth Rate: 5,364,900% increase from 2020 to 2022

4.0

★★★★★

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Solana (SOL) makes a solid mark on the cryptocurrency industry because it showcases one of the fastest blockchains in the market. Thanks to the 400 millisecond block times, it allows you to settle online and in-store payments in a fraction of a second instead of days. As a result, you can quickly earn high yield on your stablecoins.

As the hardware speed increases, the ecosystem swiftly expands along with it. There are already thousands of projects encompassing NFTs, DeFi, and Web3. Plus, it equips developers to create new functional programs in an efficient way.

In addition to this, the low fees of Solana make it easy and affordable for owners of an online store to receive stablecoin payments. The average transaction fee is only $0.00025 as of February 2022. As a result, merchants gain more opportunities to share the incremental value with consumers via loyalty offers and on-chain rewards.

On top of this, everyone is welcome to use Solana because it’s a decentralized blockchain system. Because it’s resistant to censorship, the open network allows all applications to run and all legitimate transactions to be completed directly. As a result, customers and sellers all over the world can use it to make and accept payments without the need for intermediaries.

Screenshot of Solana website home page — *Source: Solana*

Last but not least, Solana boasts a staggering growth within just a few years, with a 5,364,900% increase from 2020 to 2022. While the early Solana price was estimated at just $0.001 back in July 2020, the Solana price index eventually rose to $53.65 as of May 17, 2022. Plus, the current amount of virtual coins in circulation is already 336.79 million, with no cap to its maximum supply.

Even if Solana has its advantages, it does have some disadvantages too. One of its major drawbacks is that the price isn’t as stable compared to other digital currencies because it has a shorter track record and smaller user base.

Aside from this, Solana has a fluctuating inflation rate because it has an unlimited supply of coins. The Solana Foundation proposes a dis-inflationary inflation schedule, where the rate begins at the highest value and goes down eventually so that it will hopefully stabilize at a long-term inflation rate.

Still, Solana is an interesting cryptocurrency because of its accelerated payment processes and because it is one of the fastest growing cryptocurrencies. It traces its origins to November 2017, when Anatoly Yakovenko published a whitepaper on an effective method for time network synchronization.

In July 2018, Yakovenko and Greg Fitzgerald published a 50-node, permissioned, public testnet that supports bursts of 250,000 transactions per second. Up to today, the Solana team continues to make efforts to boost the pace of online payments.

Why we chose it: We acknowledge Solana as the best for speed among cryptocurrency options because of its capacity for lightning fast transactions. It’s appropriate for you if you want to pay and receive digital currency without unnecessary delays.

Quick virtual payments
Affordable transaction fees
Open network is censorship resistant
Large exponential growth

Unstable price
Changing inflation rate

Pricing: $53.65 as of May 17, 2022

Methodology for the Best Fastest Growing Cryptocurrency

We considered several relevant factors as we selected the fastest growing cryptocurrencies of 2023. These criteria include the overall value growth rate, starting value, current value, finite coins, inflationary or deflationary system, accessibility level, platform type, and payment scope of each cryptocurrency option.

Overall Value Growth Rate: We computed the percentage of the growth of the cryptocurrency from its starting or early rates up to its present pricing. This is only a general historical overview of how it increased in value over the years since it doesn’t account for the ups and downs of the rates from month to month.
Starting Value: We researched the initial or early price of the cryptocurrency coins when the network was first founded or when the digital coins began to be actively traded.
Current Value: We evaluated the present price of the cryptocurrency coins as of May 2022 to find out how much each one is now worth.
Cryptocurrency Coin Supply: We reviewed how many digital coins are being circulated in each cryptocurrency network as of May 11, 2022. In addition to this, we examined if there is a predetermined limit to the maximum supply of cryptocurrency or if the virtual coin supply is unlimited.
Inflationary or Deflationary: We categorized the cryptocurrency based on whether the system is inflationary or deflationary. On one hand, inflation is the reduction of the value of currency when too many coins are in circulation. On the other hand, deflation is the rise in the value of a currency when its supply is limited. Learn more about inflationary and deflationary cryptocurrencies here.
Accessibility Level: We checked if the cryptocurrency is accessible to everyone or if it’s only meant for certain groups of users.
Platform Type: We assessed if the finance system of the cryptocurrency is decentralized or not. Aside from this, we also analyzed if the network is based on an open-source platform or not.
Payment Scope: We confirmed if the cryptocurrency can be used to make and receive digital payments all over the world or if it’s limited to local use.

Each cryptocurrency has its own unique financial system so they’re not always directly comparable to one another. Nevertheless, we did put a spotlight on the special strengths of all the cryptocurrency ecosystems on the list to help you find the suitable one for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Fastest Growing Cryptocurrency

The swiftest growing cryptocurrencies give you the chance to own and trade virtual coins online. Find out the answers to common questions about cryptocurrency if you’re interested to learn about modern alternatives to traditional money.

What Is Cryptocurrency?

Cryptocurrency is a digital currency based on blockchain technology, which maintains a public record of transactions across computer networks. Virtual coins or tokens aren’t issued or regulated by central monetary authorities like banks or governments. Instead, cryptocurrency is circulated via a peer-to-peer decentralized blockchain.

What Are the Benefits of Cryptocurrency?

There are several perks that you can experience if you use cryptocurrency. First, you can own virtual currency which can be issued and circulated without the supervision of governing authorities. Next, you can directly transact with sellers and buyers without the assistance of intermediaries.

In addition to this, it allows you to conveniently purchase products and services online using a digital wallet. Last but not least, you can trade digital coins over the internet to make profits so you can start a business or expand your existing venture.

Learn more about the benefits and risks of cryptocurrencies here.

What Are the Risks of Cryptocurrency?

There are certain risks that you may encounter if you use cryptocurrency. For instance, the value of your virtual coins may fluctuate because cryptocurrency is typically not as stable as conventional currency.

Aside from this, there is the possibility that the cryptocurrency network may be hacked because it’s based online. Finally, it can be challenging to convert your digital assets into traditional currency like dollars or euros. However, you can minimize these risks by practicing basic cryptocurrency tips to safeguard your virtual assets, such as learning how cryptocurrency works and developing a backup strategy.

What Is Mining?

Mining is a popular process which generates new cryptocurrency coins and verifies the authenticity of network transactions. Miners use computers to maintain and secure blockchains, while they are rewarded through the distribution of newly created coins. Bitcoin and certain cryptocurrencies use the mining method, while other cryptocurrency systems employ different techniques to generate and distribute coins.

So What’s the Fastest Growing Cryptocurrency?

The cryptocurrency market is exciting because of the quick growth of its value and the cutting-edge developments in blockchain technology. Still, you must choose the right cryptocurrency which matches your needs to maximize the potential of these decentralized financial networks.

We highly recommend all the cryptocurrencies in our buyer’s guide. Overall, Bitcoin is our top choice because it merges together innovative cryptocurrency technology and phenomenal value growth rate.

May 31, 2022November 23, 2022

The Ultimate Guide to Income Tax by State

Different tax (and income tax by state) concepts

It’s your responsibility to pay income tax by state if you earn a salary as an employee or profits through your own business. However, it can be challenging to compute your total state income tax because each state in the U.S. has its own taxation guidelines.

No matter which state you live in, read our ultimate guide to discover the tax rate ranges and brackets for 2022. Learn the basics of state income tax so you can pay the right employment or business taxes to your state government.

What Are the State Income Tax Requirements?

Every state in the U.S. has different requirements when it comes to state income tax. Study the chart below to find out the 2022 tax rate ranges and income brackets for individual taxpayers.

State Individual Income Tax Rates & Brackets 2022

While these are the general tax rates and income brackets per state, other computation aspects also affect the total amount of your state income tax. These factors include personal exemptions, standard deductions, and federal income tax deductibles. Keep these elements in mind as you compute state income tax.

What the Difference Is Between Federal Tax and State Tax

Both federal and state taxes are legitimate types of taxation in the U.S, but there are crucial distinctions between the two. Check out the table below for an overview of the differences between federal and state taxes:

Government Type

Tax System

Tax Rates

Federal Tax

Paid to federal government

Progressive tax system

10% – 37%

State Tax

Remitted to state government

Graduated or flat rate system, depending on state

0% – 12.3%

The main difference between federal and state taxes is the type of government which requires them. Federal income tax is imposed by the federal government, while state income tax is levied by state governments.

Another dissimilarity between them is that federal taxes generally involve a progressive tax system, where higher tax rates are required for higher income brackets. In contrast, state taxes can have either graduated rates or flat rates, depending on the specific regulations of each state.

Last but not least, federal tax rates are usually higher compared to state tax rates. On one hand, federal tax rates typically range from 10% to 37%. On the other hand, state tax rates can be as little as 0% or as much as 12.3%.

What Else You Need to Know About Income Tax by State

Gaining foundational knowledge on income tax will make it easier for you to make tax filing preparations. Find out more vital information about income tax and state income tax to familiarize yourself with these matters.

What Is Income Tax?

Income tax is a form of taxation that is paid by individuals, for-profit businesses, and corporations who earn income in the U.S. The tax amount is calculated by applying a tax rate to the income amount of each taxpayer. Plus, the taxes must be filed and paid every year before the April 15 deadline arrives.

Together with your payment, you must also submit tax forms and other federal, state, and local tax requirements by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). State income tax is one of the major types of income taxes in the country.

What Are the Basic Approaches to State Income Tax?

Different states have various approaches when it comes to imposing state income tax on resident and nonresident workers. First, most states utilize a progressive tax approach, which means that the higher taxpayers earn, the higher the tax amount that they’re required to pay. Next, some states use the flat rate system, where the same rate applies to all income amounts. Finally, certain states don’t require residents and workers to pay any income tax at all.

What Are the Marginal Rates for Tax Year 2022?

There are different marginal rates for the tax year 2022 in terms of federal tax and state tax. Based on IRS tax inflation adjustments for 2022, the highest federal tax rate is 37% for individual single taxpayers who earn more than $539,900 each year. In contrast, the lowest tax rate is 10% for single individual taxpayers with an annual income of $10,275 or less.

For state income taxes, the highest rate is 12.3% for individual single taxpayers who earn approximately $625,369 every year. On the other end of the spectrum, the lowest tax rate is 0% for single individual taxpayers with $25,000 and below annual income.

How Can I Compute State Income Tax?

There are different methods you can use to calculate the total amount of your state and federal income taxes:

Manual Computation

You can manually compute your taxes using a calculator or spreadsheet program. Just multiply your income by the tax rates, then subtract the personal exemptions, standard deductions, and federal income tax deductibles. Just be aware that tax computation can be a complex process, which is why it’s a good idea for you to read how to payroll calculation guides and similar instructional articles to reduce the risk of calculation errors.

IRS Free File

The IRS provides a free online tool called IRS Free File for taxpayers like you. It simplifies the way that you prepare and file your federal tax income through guided tax preparation at the IRS partner site, as well as free fillable forms. Take note that this solution is only available for federal tax planning so you have to find another alternative for state tax computation.

Tax Software

You have the option of using tax software to streamline the way that you calculate your taxes and fill up tax forms. There are free and paid tax programs that you can choose from, according to your tax needs and budget. You can go for basic software if you are an individual taxpayer, but you can go for more advanced solutions if you have corporate requirements.

Tax Professional Services

If you can afford it, you can hire a tax professional or agency to complete your tax computations, forms, and filing for you. While it’s a smart option for you if you are an employee, it’s an even more important investment for you if you own a business. Tax experts specialize in tax services so they can ensure that you promptly and properly meet all the tax requirements of the federal and state government so that you can continue to operate your for-profit organization.

Do Small Businesses Pay State Income Taxes?

Yes. Small businesses in the U.S. are required to pay state corporate taxes. Take note that the corporate tax rates by state 2022 are different from the state income tax rates for individual employees which we discussed in this guide. Keep this in mind if you are planning to compute DIY payroll taxes for your own business.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Income Tax by State

State income tax is one of your essential obligations if you have a paying job or own a for-profit business. Learn the answers to basic questions about income tax by state to get ready for the filing and payment process.

What Is Income Tax by State?

State income tax is a type of income tax that is collected by the state government of the U.S. While tax regulations vary from state to state, these state taxes are typically applicable to residents and nonresidents who earn state-sourced income. At present, 42 states plus Washington, D.C. impose income tax by state. Take note that New Hampshire only levies state tax on dividends and interest income.

Am I Required to Pay Income Tax by State?

You are required to pay state income tax if you are earning income in the U.S, unless you live in a state that doesn’t impose this kind of tax. For example, income tax by state may be deducted from your salary if you are a full-time or part-time worker. Aside from this, you need to remit for-profit business taxes if you are gaining income as an entrepreneur. The exact tax filing procedure may differ based on whether you are an employee or employer.

What Factors Affect the Amount of Income Tax by State?

There are three major factors which have an impact on the total amount of your state income tax. The first component is how much you are earning from your job or business because it determines which tax bracket you belong to. Next, the second aspect is the state where you currently live and work. After all, each state has its own tax rate range. Finally, the third factor is a combination of standard deductions, personal exemptions, and federal income tax deductibles.

What Are Tax Brackets?

Tax brackets are categories based on a range of incomes which assign the state or federal tax rate that is applicable to you. Your tax bracket will be determined by how much your taxable income is. It will also be influenced by what your marital and filing statuses are, if you are single, married filing separately or jointly, or head of your household. Tax brackets are part of the progressive tax system, which means the higher the income, the higher the tax rates.

Which States Don’t Impose State Income Tax?

There are eight states which don’t levy state income taxes on resident and nonresident income earners. These states include Alaska, Florida, Nevada, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming. Aside from this, New Hampshire doesn’t impose income tax by state on regular income, although it does so on dividends and interest income.

Bottom Line on Income Tax by State

You must pay state income tax on a regular basis as long as you are earning income in the U.S., whether you are an employee working for a company or an entrepreneur operating your own business. Nevertheless, computing your annual income tax by state can be a daunting process, especially since different states have varying tax requirements.

May 31, 2022November 23, 2022

Dreamhost Review: Affordable WordPress Web Host

In this Dreamhost review, you’ll see how it makes it easy and affordable for you to create and manage WordPress websites for your business. This web host service transforms your web development dreams into reality through dynamic WordPress tools, generous bandwidth allotment, and budget-friendly pricing.

Our Verdict

Dreamhost

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Dreamhost is a smart choice for you if you plan to build, manage, and promote websites for your business using WordPress. After all, this provider equips you with web creation tools that let you maximize the possibilities of the WordPress platform. Plus, it allows bountiful amounts of data transfer so you can upload a lot of content to your websites. Finally, the available plans are accessible no matter what your budget is, thanks to the cost-effective rates.

Although Dreamhost is a well-rounded web host, it has certain drawbacks too. For instance, you need to pay extra to register “.com” domain names if you go for the monthly version of the shared or WordPress plans because it is only free for the annual plans and VPS plans. Also, the shared starter plan doesn’t come with email unlike the higher tiers, although you can purchase email services for a monthly fee. Finally, the customer service is only strong in terms of chat support, but not in terms of phone support.

Rich WordPress features
Unlimited bandwidth
Very economical pricing

Additional payment required for domains for monthly shared or WordPress plans
Email not included in the most basic monthly plan
Support is chat-based, not phone-based

Pricing: Starts at $1.99 / month

Dreamhost at a Glance

Dreamhost is a web host service that focuses on digital content creation and sharing. It showcases a suite of WordPress tools that make it simple for newbies and tech experts alike to build and manage sites. It aims to improve the WordPress platform through coding, community collaboration, and advanced support.

Established in 1997, it now boasts more than 400,000 users in over 100 countries. It currently hosts more than 1.5 million websites, blogs, and applications on the internet. At present, it offers a variety of services, such as WordPress hosting, website hosting, VPS hosting, WP website builder, dedicated hosting, and cloud hosting.

Dreamhost shines among web host providers because it fuses together WordPress expertise and fairly cheap pricing. It comes with features like web hosting services, domain name registration, traffic management, bandwidth, storage, WordPress tools, migration assistance, customized control panel, web management tools, email, security certification, and customer service.

Who Dreamhost Is Best For

Dreamhost is the ideal web host solution for entrepreneurs and content creators who plan to create business websites using the open-source software WordPress.org. We recommend it for you if you have a limited budget because it seamlessly combines competitive pricing with strong functionality. It is also a terrific fit for you if you need to upload abundant text, photos, videos, and documents because it comes with a high or unlimited amount of data transfers.

Pricing

Dreamhost offers three types of web hosting plans that differ in terms of rates and features. Check out how these Dreamhost monthly plans stack up against each other:

Price

Starts at $1.99 / month

Starts at $12 / month

Starts at $15 / month

Web Hosting

Buy “.com” domain for $7.99 each

Unlimited domains

Traffic Management

Unlimited traffic

100,000 visits / month

Unlimited traffic

Bandwidth

Unmetered

Storage

Fast SSD storage

30 GB to 120 GB SSD storage

30 GB to 240 GB SSD storage

WordPress Tools

Pre-installed WordPress or 1-click instant WordPress install plus WP website builder

1-click instant WordPress install

Migration Assistance

Free automated WordPress migrations

Contact Dreamhost for details

Control Panel

Custom

Web Management Tools

Automated backups

Automated plus on-demand backups w/ 1-click restore, free pre-installed Jetpack & 1-click staging

Unlimited MySQL databases & sub account creation

Email

Add email starting at $1.67 / month for Shared Starter or free unlimited email for Shared Unlimited

Unlimited email

Security

Free SSL certificate

Pre-installed SSL Certificate

Free SSL certificate

Customer Support

24/7 chat & email support

24/7 WordPress chat & email support

24/7 chat & email support

To sum it up, there are three main kinds of Dreamhost web hosting plans with various tiers:

Shared (Starts at $1.99 / month): Entry-level shared hosting for new websites which is suitable for business owners with a limited budget and basic requirements
DreamPress (Starts at $12 / month): Specialized WordPress hosting for entrepreneurs who prefer to build websites using the WordPress platform
VPS (Starts at $15 / month): VPS hosting for content creators who wish to establish business websites on their own Virtual Private Servers for optimal privacy and performance

On top of this, Dreamhost also provides other types of services, such as:

WP Website Builder (Starts at $1.99 / month): Design tools for easy WordPress website creation
Dedicated Hosting (Starts at $169 / month): Dedicated hosting on fast web servers with root access
Cloud Hosting (Starts at $0.0075 / hour): Cloud hosting on speedy servers with root access, SSD storage, and open API-powered networking

Take note that these rates are applicable only to the contract-free monthly plans, while different rates are available for annual plans. Since Dreamhost gives you a broad range of options to choose from, you can pick the plan that matches the web hosting budget and needs of your business team.

Dreamhost Features

Dreamhost exhibits a wide range of functions that empower you to establish and run your business websites. The features of Dreamhost include web hosting, domain names, traffic management, bandwidth, storage, WordPress tools, migration assistance, control panel, web management tools, email, security, and customer support.

Web Hosting

Dreamhost offers web hosting services that allow you to publish and maintain your business sites and blogs on the internet. It provides a secure virtual environment where you can store and tweak your content online.

The Shared Starter plan lets you publish a single website via shared hosting, while the DreamPress package equips you to establish one WordPress website on WordPress-optimized servers. On top of this, the VPS plan enables you to set up unlimited websites on Virtual Private Servers.

Domain Name

The domain is the name of your business website which is linked to a physical IP address on the internet. The most common kind of domain is “.com”, although other domain types include “.org”, “.edu”, and “.gov”.

The contract-free monthly versions of the Shared and DreamPress packages don’t include a free domain, although the annual versions come with complimentary domains. Nevertheless, you can still purchase “.com” domain names for $7.99 each if you go for the monthly plans. As an alternative, you can sign up for the VPS plan which provides unlimited domains.

Traffic Management

Dreamhost assists you in managing the regular traffic of your business websites. On one hand, both the Shared and VPS plans support unlimited traffic so you don’t need to worry about overage expenses.

On the other hand, the DreamPress plan can handle up to 100,000 site visits every month. Still, this is just a soft limit so Dreamhost won’t stop the operations of your website in case you surpass this amount, although it could potentially slow down the performance of your site.

Bandwidth

Bandwidth is the maximum amount of information which can be transferred over the internet during a certain period of time. All the Dreamhost hosting plans flaunt unmetered bandwidth so you can upload as much digital content as you wish to your business websites. Since there is no limit to your data transfers, there’s no need to be concerned about potential overage fees.

Storage

Dreamhost provides SSD storage with all its plans. Solid state drive (SSD) is around 200% quicker than hard disk drive (HDD) in terms of caching and database queries. As a result, it can reduce the website loading time of your visitors.

The Shared package includes fast SSD storage, although the exact storage amount is not indicated in the product website. The DreamPress plan offers 30GB to 120GB SSD storage along with its various tiers. Finally, the VPS package comes with high-performance SSD hard drives with storage that starts at 30GB and goes up to 240GB.

WordPress Tools

Dreamhost puts the spotlight on WordPress, which is why it’s not surprising that it packs a powerful arsenal of WordPress tools. If you subscribe to the Shared or DreamPress plans, you can let Dreamhost pre-install WordPress on your behalf or you can do it yourself through the easy 1-click instant WordPress installation tool.

You can take advantage of pre-assembled apps to avoid the hassle of designing a site from scratch. Plus, the WP website builder comes with a creation wizard, drag-and-drop editor, and professional templates. Keep in mind that the VPS package has less website creation tools than the Shared and DreamPress plans, but it does come with 1-click instant WordPress install.

Migration Assistance

Dreamhost makes it simple for you to carry over your WordPress websites from your previous hosting provider without any downtime. Both the Shared and DreamPress packages include a free automated WordPress migration plugin that you can use regardless of the level of your technical skills. The VPS plan doesn’t list down any migration tools in its feature set, but you may inquire with Dreamhost to confirm if it comes with migration assistance or not.

Control Panel

All the plans of Dreamhost include a control panel which grants you admin access to your websites. This custom panel has advanced features which enable you to add new email accounts, update domain information, adjust email settings, and authorize new users.

Web Management Tools

Aside from web development tools, Dreamhost also includes other features that help you with web management tasks. If you sign up for the Shared plan, your WordPress websites will be automatically backed up on a daily basis.

In case you go for the DreamPress plan, you can request for additional backups on demand, plus you can restore your site with just a single click. In addition to this, you will also get free pre-installed Jetpack and 1-click staging.

If you select the VPS plan, you can set up unlimited MySQL databases using the control panel. On top of this, you can add sub accounts that allow you to manage client accounts, access websites of your clients and contractors, and handle FTP or billing matters.

Email

Email is an essential communication tool so having your own custom email bestows a professional touch to your work correspondence. Take note that the low-tier Shared Starter monthly plan requires you to shell out $1.67 per month for each email domain you purchase. Nevertheless, the next tier called Shared Unlimited plan, as well as all tiers of the DreamPress and VPS packages, include unlimited email with your own domain.

Security

No matter which plan you choose, Dreamhost protects the privacy of your websites through the free Let’s Encrypt SSL certificate. The HTTPS technology safeguards your data by encrypting your web traffic. At the same time, it improves your SEO results on the Google search engine.

Customer Support

All the Dreamhost packages come with round-the-clock customer service. Both the Shared and VPS plans include 24/7 general web support, while the DreamPress package showcases 24/7 WordPress support that is specifically geared towards the open-source platform.

However, you should be aware that customer service mostly comes in the form of live chat and email support, instead of phone support. Actually, you even need to pay extra just to request for callbacks from the technical support team. For example, it will cost you $9.95 for a single callback, while you have the option to spend $14.95 each month for three callbacks.

Alternatives to Dreamhost

Dreamhost is a good fit for you if you need a web host provider that brings WordPress solutions within your reach regardless of your budget. Still, you may consider other options in case other aspects of web hosting are more important to you. These are some notable alternatives to Dreamhost:

WP Engine

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WP Engine is a web hosting service that centers around the WordPress platform. The web developer tools make it possible for you to create and manage WordPress websites for your business.

WP Engine is ideal for you if you have a larger budget for expert WordPress services and strong customer support. In contrast to Dreamhost’s chat support, WP Engine provides accessible phone support for higher tiers. Still, Dreamhost is way more affordable than WP Engine so your choice will be influenced by how much you’re willing to allocate for hosting services. Read the WP Engine review to find out if it’s the perfect alternative for you.

Specializes in WordPress sites
24/7 phone support for higher tiers

Expensive pricing compared to Dreamhost
Domains and emails aren’t included in plans

Pricing: Starts at $30 / month

Squarespace

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Squarespace is a website builder that provides a wide variety of ready-to-use templates. You can customize these flexible templates based on your preferred designer fonts and color palettes.

Squarespace is appropriate for you if you want to achieve a sophisticated site appearance with minimal effort. After all, it is more design-centric compared to Dreamhost. Nevertheless, Dreamhost offers more hosting solutions than Squarespace so your selection could depend on whether you prioritize design or web management more.

Broad range of professional template options
Unlimited bandwidth

Pricier rates than Dreamhost
Limited video storage

Pricing: Starts at $19

*Rates applicable to monthly plans. Lower rates available for annual plans.

Weebly

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Weebly is an ecommerce platform that enables you to set up online stores and websites. It lets you launch ecommerce shops with the help of the drag-and-drop builder, which comes with shipping, inventory, and SEO tools.

Weebly is suitable for you if you are interested in selling the products or services of your company to consumers through a virtual store. As you can see from its feature set, it concentrates more on ecommerce than Dreamhost does. Still, Dreamhost is more savvy when it comes to WordPress site creation. In the end, your choice will be based on whether you are focusing on building online shops or WordPress websites.

Ecommerce expertise
Free basic plan available

No special WordPress support
No free domains for basic plans

Pricing: Starts at $0

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Dreamhost Review

Dreamhost is a web hosting solution that is worth taking a look at if you prioritize creating WordPress sites. Discover the answers to common questions about Dreamhost and WordPress to learn if it’s ideal for your business.

What Is Dreamhost?

Dreamhost is a web host provider which equips business owners and content creators to build and maintain websites, blogs, and apps. Its main services are shared hosting, WordPress hosting, and VPS hosting, although it also offers WP website builder, dedicated hosting, and cloud hosting.

It includes features such as hosting solutions, domain registration, traffic management, unmetered bandwidth, SSD storage, WordPress tools, migration plugins, advanced control panel, web management tools, email domains, security options, and customer support.

What Is WordPress?

WordPress.org is an open-source platform that serves as the foundation for WordPress websites and blogs. This free software can be used independently, although web host providers like Dreamhost streamlines the way that you utilize the platform to build WordPress websites. Take note that WordPress.org is distinct from WordPress.com, since the former describes the open-source program while the latter refers to a basic web hosting service.

What Are the Benefits of Using Dreamhost?

There are various advantages that you can experience if you subscribe to a Dreamhost plan. First, you can benefit from complete hosting solutions without breaking the bank. Next, you can make the most out of web creation and management tools that are especially tailored to the WordPress platform. Last but not least, you can add as much content as you want to your business sites and blogs because Dreamhost doesn’t limit your uploads.

Bottom Line on Dreamhost Review

Dreamhost makes web hosting services accessible to you, whether you have a small budget or a big one. We recommend this well-rounded web hosting provider if you plan to create WordPress websites, thanks to its featured-packed WordPress tools, unlimited bandwidth, and cost-effective rates. After reading our Dreamhost review, we expect that you can now easily make up your mind if this affordable web hosting solution is a great match for your business.

May 25, 2022March 16, 2023

Best 8 Cheapest VoIP Services – Our 2023 Picks

The cheapest VoIP phone service makes it easy and affordable for you to connect with customers by phone. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) providers help you save money by letting you make calls online instead of via a traditional phone line.

Our top pick for 2023 is RingCentral because it successfully combines cost-effective pricing, robust VoIP features, and lots of communication tools. You’ll get unlimited calls, video, and messaging. Plus, RingCentral offers 24/7 support should you have any issues.

Looking for a premium VoIP service? check out Vonage!

Best Cheapest VoIP Phone Services

RingCentral – Best Overall
Nextiva – Best for VoIP Functionality
Ooma Office – Best for Customization
Vonage – Best for Ease of Use
Google Voice – Best for Affordability
Line2 – Best for Beginners
Intermedia Unite – Best for Integration
Freshdesk Contact Center – Best for Reporting

RingCentral

Starts at $19.99 per user / month (1-20 users)

Call forwarding, call screening & visual voicemail

AI features

Free trial hardware for 21 days

Secure voice encryption

24/7 live support for high-tier plans

Nextiva

Starts at $23.95 per user / month (1-4 users)

Call recording, virtual voicemail, call management & call log reports

Auto attendant

VoIP devices available for rent or purchase

TLS & SRTP encryption

Unlimited 24/7 live support for all plans

Ooma Office

Starts at $19.95 / month

Call recording, call blocking & caller info match

Virtual receptionist

VoIP devices available for purchase

Voice data encryption

24/7 phone support

Vonage

Starts at $19.99 / month per line

Call recording & visual voicemail available as add-ons

Multi-level auto attendant for high-tier plans

VoIP phones available for purchase

Firewalls & logical access control

24/7 US-based tech support & customer service

Google Voice

Starts at $10 per user / month

Call forwarding & voicemail transcription

Auto attendant for high-tier plans

None included but compatible w/ Poly VoIP devices

ISO & SOC certifications

24/7 support for all plans

Line2

Starts at $15.99 / month

Basic call forwarding, call scheduling & call recording

Auto attendant

None

No special security features

Customer support available from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. (EST)

Intermedia Unite

Starts at $27.99 / month

Call pickup, call transfer & spam call blocking

Auto attendant

Free VOIP phone or device (limited offer)

Secure technology via industry compliance standards

24/7 technical support

Freshdesk Contact Center

Starts at free + Pay per minute

Inbound caller ID, call metrics, call recording & voicemail

PBX system

Compatible with SIP devices

ISO, SOC & Cyber Essentials certifications

24/7 email support for all plans + 24/5 phone & chat support for paid plans

RingCentral: Best Overall Cheapest VoIP Phone Service

Pricing: $19.99 to $49.99

4.5

★★★★★

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RingCentral is at the top of our list of the cheapest VoIP phone services because it offers a good balance of fairly affordable pricing, extensive VoIP features, and communication centralization. It stands out among VoIP providers because it consolidates your phone, video, and messaging tools into one platform. All four available plans streamline your communication systems to simplify the way that you connect with others.

On one hand, you can use RingCentral to make unlimited phone calls to people in the U.S. and Canada. On the other hand, you can receive calls through the new business phone or toll-free numbers which RingCentral will provide you. Call screening, call forwarding, and visual voicemail features help you manage your incoming and missed calls.

In addition to VoIP features, the AI-based Advanced Meeting Insights and Summaries generates notes on your meeting discussions to boost your productivity. Plus, you can test the trial hardware for 21 days in case you need a VoIP device. Finally, RingCentral offers customer service and secure voice encryption for a better user experience.

Although RingCentral is a well-rounded VoIP service, it has a few limitations too. Because it has a lot of features, it might be overwhelming for beginners at first since it takes time getting used to. Aside from this, 24/7 live support is only available for high-tier plans, although basic support is included with the low-tier plan.

Why we chose it: We ranked RingCentral as the best overall cheap VoIP service because it effectively fuses together competitive pricing, a wide variety of VoIP features, and strong consolidation of communication tools. It is ideal for you if you want a VoIP platform that offers the perfect balance between cost-effectiveness and usefulness. Read our ultimate RingCentral review to learn more.

Excellent value for the cost
Integrates phone, messaging, and video
Uses AI-based technology

Adjustment period for new users
24/7 customer support only included in high-end plans

Pricing:

Essentials: $19.99 per user / month
Standard: $27.99 per user / month
Premium: $34.99 per user / month
Ultimate: $49.99 per user / month

*Rates for 1-20 users. Lower rates available for more users.

Screenshot of RingCentral dashboard page

Nextiva: Best Cheapest VoIP Phone Service for VoIP Functionality

Pricing: $23.95 to $37.95 per user / month

4.5

★★★★★

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Nextiva stands out among the cheapest VoIP phone services because it has a broad range of VoIP features. You can use it to communicate with people in the U.S. and Canada because it comes with unlimited calling, texting, faxing, video meetings, and chat capabilities. It also includes call recording, virtual voicemail, call management, call log records, and an auto attendant. You can make VoIP calls whether you are in the office or on the go, thanks to its desktop program and mobile app. Plus, you will get your own local and toll-free numbers for free.

The plans don’t automatically include VoIP equipment, although they are available for purchase or rent. Still, you can download a mobile app to your iOS or Android smartphone if you don’t need a dedicated VoIP gadget.

On top of this, Nextiva offers unlimited 24/7 live support for all plans so you can quickly get technical assistance or VoIP guidance. In addition to its customer service, it protects your privacy through ISO/IEC 27001 certification, biometric checkpoints, and round-the-clock monitoring.

Even if Nextiva is a good VoIP service, it has some drawbacks too. Some of the advanced features are only available for the premium plans. Also, it is relatively pricier compared to the other alternatives in this list.

Why we chose it: We commend Nextiva as the best for VoIP functionality because of the many available VoIP features that you can take advantage of. It is viable for you if you want a VoIP platform that you can use for varied telephony purposes. To learn more about Nextiva’s features, read our complete Nextiva review.

Rich VoIP functionality
Free toll-free and local numbers
Round-the-clock customer support for all users

Some extra features only available for high-tier plans
Higher rates compared to competitors

Pricing:

Essential: $23.95 per user / month
Professional: $27.95 per user / month
Enterprise: $37.95 per user / month

*Rates for 1-4 users. Lower rates available for more users.

Nextiva website and mobile user interface

Ooma Office: Best Cheapest VoIP Phone Service for Customization

Pricing: Starts at $19.95 / month

4.0

★★★★★

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Ooma Office shines among VoIP services in the area of personalization because you can customize it according to your preferences. It guides you in tailoring your plan based on your business requirements, such as internet ports, Wi-Fi cordless phones, conference phones, and fax machines. It also assists you in selecting your free local or toll-free number according to the area code availability.

It lets you collaborate with others through audio, video, messaging, and online fax communication tools. VoIP features like call recording, caller info match, call blocking, and virtual receptionist make it simple for you to handle your calls. In addition to this, Ooma Office provides 24/7 phone support and voice data encryption for your convenience and security.

Nevertheless, Ooma Office has room for improvement in other areas. For example, advanced communication options like video conferencing are only included in the high-tier plan. Plus, higher usage limits for extension monitoring and audio conference room participation is exclusive to the premium plan, which you need to sign up for unless you already subscribed to other conference call services. Also, you need to pay extra to buy a dedicated VoIP device from Ooma Office.

Why we chose it: Ooma Office is the best in customization among VoIP services because you can personalize it based on your unique needs. It is ideal for you if you want to tweak your VoIP plan to your own specifications. To learn more about its features, read our in-depth review on Ooma Office.

Wide customization options
Free number selection guidance
Virtual receptionist

Video conferencing not included in basic plan
Higher usage available only with high-end plan
Additional purchase needed for VoIP device

Pricing:

Ooma Office: $19.95 / month
Ooma Office Pro: $24.95 / month

Vonage: Best Cheapest VoIP Phone Service for Ease of Use

Pricing: From $19.99 to $39.99

3.5

★★★★★

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Vonage’s main advantage over other VoIP services is that it is easy to use. The setup process is straightforward so you can complete it with minimal hassle. Plus, the VoIP platform is simple so you can quickly adapt to it and scale it according to your business size and needs.

The unified communications VoIP Phone system includes unlimited calls, SMS, and team messaging, as well as video collaboration. You can utilize these VoIP features via the mobile app when you are away from the office or the desktop app when you are at work. In addition to this, Vonage provides US-based customer support and technical assistance on a 24/7 basis. Plus, it protects your privacy through security features like firewalls and logical access control.

Still, Vonage has particular limitations despite its perks. You need to pay extra for crucial VoIP features like call recording, visual voicemail, and multi-level attendant, unless you subscribe to a high-tier plan. While you get the option to keep your existing number, you need to buy toll-free numbers since they are not included in the plans. Aside from this, you also have to purchase VoIP equipment separately.

Why we chose it: We pick Vonage as best for ease of use among VoIP services because you can set it up whether you are a beginner or a tech expert. It is a potential choice for you if you prefer a VoIP service that you can use right away with minimal hassle.

Simple setup process
Unified communications platform
24/7 tech support

Some key VoIP features only available as add-ons or as part of high-tier plans
No free toll-free numbers
VoIP phones must be purchased

Pricing:

Mobile: $19.99 / month per line + taxes & fees
Premium: $29.99 / month per line + taxes & fees
Advanced: $39.99 / month per line + taxes & fees

Screenshot of Vonage admin dashboard page

Google Voice: Best Cheapest VoIP Phone Service for Affordability

Pricing: From $10 to $30

4.5

★★★★★

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Google Voice is the most budget-friendly VoIP service in our list, thanks to the very affordable plan rates. Even with the basic plan, you will already get free calls to the U.S. from anywhere in the world, as well as free calls to Canada from the U.S. You can also send unlimited SMS messages using the platform. Its VoIP features include call forwarding and voicemail transcriptions.

All the plans integrate smoothly with Google Workspace apps because it is native to the Google ecosystem. Yet even if it is Google-based, you can use it with both Android and iOS smartphones, as well as desktops and laptops. In addition to this, all users can depend on 24/7 support and security backed by ISO & SOC certifications.

Take note that there are certain trade-offs to the low cost of Google Voice. None of the plans offer toll-free numbers, just local Google Voice numbers. Additionally, the auto attendant feature is only exclusive to the high-tier plans. Lastly, there is no included hardware with any of the plans, although you can use them with compatible Poly VoIP devices which you can purchase separately.

Why we chose it: We grant Google Voice the title of best for affordability among VoIP services because it includes free calls and basic VoIP features for a very low price. It is a good match for you if cutting down communication expenses is your top priority. Read our ultimate Google Voice review to learn more.

Bargain plan rates
Free calls & unlimited SMS
24/7 support for all plans

No toll-free numbers
Auto attendant function only for high-end plans
No hardware included

Pricing:

Starter: $10 per user / month
Standard: $20 per user / month
Premier: $30 per user / month

Screenshot of Google Voice make a call page

Line2: Best Cheapest VoIP Phone Service for Beginners

Pricing: From $15.99 to $25.99

4.0

★★★★★

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Line2 is a viable option for beginners because it is easy to configure and it includes basic features. Once you set it up, you can start using essential VoIP features like unlimited calls, plus texts, call forwarding, call recording, call scheduling, and auto attendant. You may use the desktop app when you are in the office or mobile apps when you are on the go. Plus, you can also choose between a toll-free number or a local number.

However, you should be aware that Line2 is not as powerful as other VoIP services so it might not be suitable for you if you have complex VoIP needs. Although it covers the basics of phone and messaging, it doesn’t offer other communication options so you need separate video conferencing software just to make video calls. Keep in mind, Line2 is solely a software solution so it doesn’t come with any dedicated VoIP devices. Its customer support is only available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (EST) Monday through Friday.

Why we chose it: We award Line2 as the best for beginners because of its basic features and quick setup process. It could be a great fit for you if you are a first-time user with minimal VoIP requirements.

Simple configuration process
Essential VoIP features included
Economical pricing

No video conferencing
No VoIP hardware
Limited customer support

Pricing:

Starter: $15.99 / month
Growth: $20.99 / month
Business: $25.99 / month

Intermedia Unite: Best Cheapest VoIP Phone Service for Integration

Pricing: From $27.99 to $32.99

4.5

★★★★★

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Intermedia Unite has an edge over other VoIP services when it comes to integration because it connects with third-party apps to increase its functionality. It integrates with popular productivity apps from Google and Microsoft, including Chrome, G Suite, Outlook, Office 365, and Microsoft Teams. It also links to CRM software, such as Salesforce, Zoho CRM, and Sugar CRM.

In addition to Unite Extend Integrations, it has built-in communication capabilities like unlimited calls, video, chat, and web fax. The VoIP features include call pickup, caller ID, call transfer, spam call blocking, and auto attendant.

You can reach out to others via the available desktop app or mobile app for Android or iOS smartphones. Occasionally, there’s a limited offer to get a free VoIP deskphone and other devices like speakerphone, headset, or webcam when you subscribe to a plan. On top of this, Intermedia Unite offers technical support via phone or chat on a 24/7 basis. Plus, it meets industry compliance standards to maintain secure connections.

Nevertheless, Intermedia Unite is limited in particular ways. For instance, toll-free numbers and additional phone numbers are not included in the plans, although you can purchase them as add-ons. Aside from this, the basic plan is more expensive compared to similar plans from other VoIP providers. Plus, it can be challenging to switch from user to administrator accounts because they require separate sign-ins.

Why we chose it: We recognize Intermedia Unite as the best for integration among VoIP services because it links with third-party programs to boost its usefulness. It is appropriate for you if you want to connect your work apps to your VoIP platform.

Rich third-party integrations
Free VoIP phone or device (limited time only)
24/7 technical support

Toll-free and local numbers cost extra
Pricier than similar plans from competitors
Hard to switch from user to administrator accounts

Pricing:

Unite Pro: $27.99 / month
Unite Enterprise: $32.99 / month

Freshdesk Contact Center: Best Cheapest VoIP Phone Service for Reporting

Pricing: Free to $83 + Pay per minute

3.5

★★★★★

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Freshdesk Contact Center, which was previously called Freshcaller, stands out among VoIP services because it generates detailed reports. The live dashboards allow you to keep track of agent availability, agent performance, and customer satisfaction in real-time. Plus, you can stay updated on customer communication via call recordings, call transcripts, and call lifecycle data.

The VoIP features include inbound caller ID, call queues, and voicemail, which you can take advantage of through the desktop and mobile apps. Beyond this, the versatile PBX system allows it to double as call center software. It enables you to route calls to your agents or teams, as well as to add self-service options.

On top of it, all plans come with round-the-clock email support, while the paid plans include 24/5 phone and chat support. Finally, the security features are backed by ISO, SOC & Cyber Essentials certifications.

However, Freshdesk Contact Center has vital shortcomings, which may be a deal-breaker for some. While you can subscribe to the basic plan for free, it doesn’t come with any free call minutes so you need to pay per minute. As a result, you might end up spending more in the long run. The paid plans do include a limited number of free minutes, but you also need to pay for excess minutes.

Freshdesk doesn’t offer any free local or toll-free numbers, but you can purchase them as add-ons. Also, there is no included hardware, but the service is compatible with SIP devices.

Why we chose it: Freshdesk Contact Center is the best for reporting among the cheapest VoIP services because of its advanced reporting capabilities. It may be suitable for you if you need informative reports, especially if you own or manage a call center.

Comprehensive reporting features
PBX system for call management
Security certifications

Zero or limited free minutes only
No free toll-free or local numbers
No dedicated VoIP hardware

Pricing:

Free: Free subscription + Pay per minute.
Growth: $18 per agent / month + Pay per minute.
Pro: $47 per agent / month + Pay per minute.
Enterprise: $83 per agent / month + Pay per minute.

*Rates for monthly billing. Lower rates available for annual billing.

Screenshot of Freshdesk live dashboard page

Ranking Methodology for the Best Cheapest VoIP Phone Service

As we selected our top 8 VoIP providers for this buyer’s guide, we prioritized giving credit to companies that offer budget-friendly VoIP services which include strong feature sets even with the basic plans. Our picks for this list do not necessarily lead the pack in terms of cutting-edge VoIP technology or premium customer support, but they do excel in providing the best bang for your buck given their competitive pricing.

Here are some important factors which we considered as we chose the best affordable VoIP services:

Pricing

Pricing is a crucial element in your VoIP service selection because you can only sign up for a plan that you can afford, given your business budget. Many VoIP providers offer plans on a monthly basis, which you can pay based on the number of users or the amount of call minutes you consumed. As an alternative, you may consider subscribing to an annual plan to get lower rates, if you are planning on using the service for at least one year. If these services are above your budget, here’s a list of free VoIP services to get you started.

VoIP Communication

Communication is the main purpose of VoIP so you need a service that allows you to connect with your team and clients in convenient ways. At the very least, your VoIP service must offer excellent audio calls and messaging. If you have advanced collaboration requirements, consider a plan that also includes video conferencing and faxing.

VoIP Features

VoIP features make it possible for you to manage your incoming, outgoing and missed calls. That’s why it’s essential that your plan includes vital VoIP functions, such as call recording, call forwarding, voicemail, caller ID, call blocking, and call log reports.

Automations

VoIP services can automate some of your call monitoring and management tasks so that your team can save time and effort. It’s a practical idea for you to look for a VoIP provider that offers auto-attendant features or AI-based technology.

Phone Numbers

Toll-free numbers and local numbers make it easier for your customers to contact your business. You can subscribe to a plan that includes free customized numbers or purchase it as an add-on to your package. Take note that a few VoIP services don’t include a toll-free option.

Software

Software solutions like desktop programs and mobile apps allow you to use your computer or smartphone to make and receive calls and messages. While most VoIP plans include software options, you do need to make sure the service is compatible with the OS of your gadget.

Hardware

You may need dedicated VoIP equipment like desk phones, headsets, and speakerphones if your team makes and receives a lot of calls on a regular basis. Most providers offer VoIP hardware devices for sale or for rent, while others have a software-only platform that is compatible with other electronic gadgets.

Ease of Use

A VoIP service that is simple to set up and easy to use lets everyone in your team maximize its features. After all, different team members have different levels of technical skills so your VoIP platform should be accessible to all.

Security

Security may be a low-key feature, yet it’s an integral one because it determines how safe your communication data is. A VoIP provider should protect the privacy of your communications through industry-grade VoIP security standards and certifications.

Customer Support

Customer service can make or break a VoIP service. After all, VoIP technical issues can affect the productivity of your business. That’s why you need a VoIP provider that offers round-the-clock customer support so you can receive prompt, efficient customer support and assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Cheapest VoIP Phone Services

The best cheapest VoIP phone services allow you to communicate with others without breaking the bank. Explore the answers to common questions about VoIP services.

What Is VoIP?

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is a type of communication technology which lets you call other people via an internet connection rather than a conventional analog phone line. Depending on your VoIP provider and plan, you can make local, mobile, long-distance, and unlimited international calls. Some VoIP services are meant for business use, while others are more suitable for personal use. Most VoIP providers offer different plans which vary in terms of pricing and features.

How Does VoIP Work?

VoIP works by transforming audio and video into digital signals and sending these signals over an internet connection. In case you are calling a traditional phone number, the digital data will be converted back to a traditional phone signal before the other person hears it. VoIP configurations usually involve dedicated routers, adapters, VoIP applications, and VoIP phones or compatible devices.

What Are the Benefits of Using VoIP Services?

There are several advantages that you can experience by using VoIP services. First, you’re able to conserve financial resources by cutting down on expensive phone bills. Next, you will benefit from advanced VoIP features like call management, call recording, virtual voicemail, call scheduling, and call records logs.

In addition to this, you can use different types of devices to make and receive calls, including VoIP desk phones, computers, and smartphones. On top of this, you can collaborate with your team and connect with your customers more easily. Finally, a VoIP service can serve as a global learning tool for you and your team.

What Are Other Alternatives to VoIP Phone Services?

VoIP phone services are handy for you if you plan on making voice calls and sending messages for your business. Nevertheless, there are other alternatives that you can select from based on your particular needs. For example, VoIP apps may work for you if you want simple apps that you can toggle for business and personal use.

What Are the Best Cheapest VoIP Phone Services?

The best and cheapest VoIP services are RingCentral, Nextiva, Google Voice, Line2, Ooma Office, Intermedia Unite, Freshdesk Contact Center, and Vonage. RingCentral earns the top spot in our list by blending together competitive rates and abundant VoIP features.

Nextiva excels in VoIP functionality, while Google Voice has the lowest pricing in the batch. If Line2 is a good match for beginners with basic needs, then Ooma is a great fit for those who need customization options and Intermedia Unite for those who prioritize third-party integration. To round off the list, Freshdesk Contact Center has advanced reporting capabilities, while Vonage is the easiest one to use.

Bottom Line on the Best Cheapest VoIP Phone Services

The cheapest VoIP phone service allows you to save time and money while contacting other people for work or personal reasons. While we acknowledge the strengths of all the VoIP services in our list, we especially recommend RingCentral because it merges together affordable rates, rich VoIP features, and communication consolidation.

May 20, 2022November 23, 2022

What Is Hybrid Work & How to Make It Work in 7 Steps

Businesswoman working remotely with laptop

Hybrid work combines the best of both worlds: the convenience of remote work and the collaborative ease of on-site work. Nevertheless, this modern work setup comes with its own set of challenges. That’s why you should exert extra effort to ensure that it’s effective for your business.

Keep reading this how-to guide to discover what hybrid work is. Find out how you and your team can make it work in seven steps.

How to Establish an Effective Hybrid Work Setup in 7 Steps

Hybrid work is a futuristic work arrangement that fuses together elements of remote work and office-based work. Follow these steps to boost the productivity of your organization as you and your team switch to a hybrid work setup:

Step 1: Check if Hybrid Work Is Suitable for You

Learn if it’s a practical option for you based on employee preference, location & budget

Step 2: Choose a Hybrid Work Model

Select from remote-first, office-first, flexible, or fixed hybrid work models

Step 3: Set up Hybrid Work Schedules and Assignments

Create work timetables & task lists for employees & contractors

Step 4: Provide Work Equipment to Team Members

Equip staff members w/ company-issued laptops & other gadgets for work purposes (if applicable)

Step 5: Install Business Productivity Software

Use communication tools & project management software to enhance workflows

Step 6: Manage On-Site and Remote Teams

Supervise office-based and home-based workers on a regular basis

Step 7: Schedule Regular Meetings

Host face-to-face and virtual meetings periodically to keep your team connected

Step 1: Check if Hybrid Work Is Suitable for You

First of all, evaluate if the hybrid work arrangement is ideal for your business. There are several reasons why it could be a practical option for you. For instance, some of your employees may now prefer to work online on a part-time basis since the pandemic started.

Aside from this, you may have hired many team members who live in faraway cities, states, or countries so it’s not possible for them to physically go to your office. Last but not least, perhaps you want to cut down on office rental or maintenance expenses brought about by an on-site work setup.

Step 2: Choose a Hybrid Work Model

Next, select a hybrid work model that’s a good match for your organization. Check out the table below to discover the different kinds of models which vary in terms of ratio of remote and on-site work:

Models

Remote-First

Office-First

Flexible

Fixed

Work Location Ratio

Mostly home-based work w/ occasional on-site work

Mostly on-site work w/ occasional home-based work

Depends on the preference of staff members

Depends on the preference of the company

Work Schedule Decision-Maker

Depends on company policy

Employees & contractors

Employer & management

We will discuss the details of each hybrid work model in another section of this guide.

Step 3: Set up Hybrid Work Schedules and Assignments

No matter which hybrid work model you pick, you must establish a solid routine by creating work timetables for your employees and freelancers. Be clear about when each person is approximately scheduled to work on-site or remotely so that the entire team will be aware of their physical or virtual availability.

In addition to this, make a list of work assignments for each department and individual. This will make it easier for everyone to figure out which tasks should be tackled in the office or at home. To be realistic, the level of details for the schedules and assignment lists will vary depending on the model you follow. Still, it’s a good idea for you to make strategic plans regardless of your exact work setup.

Step 4: Provide Work Equipment to Team Members

After you’ve arranged the work schedules, it’s time to equip your staff members with the necessary tools that will enable them to fulfill their tasks inside or outside the office. After all, the hybrid setup doesn’t automatically grant workers regular access to office equipment and supplies unlike the traditional on-site arrangement.

To make up for this drawback, you may lend your employees laptops which they can use at home for regular office tasks, such as accounting, data entry, writing, coding, or web development. You may also supply them with other relevant gadgets based on their job, such as digital drawing tablets for graphic artists or VoIP devices for call center agents.

While it’s common for freelancers to rely on their own tools, your business could be expected to provide company-issued computers and smartphones to full-time staff.

Step 5: Install Business Productivity Software

Once you’ve equipped your employees with essential hardware, your next step is to implement the use of vital business software across your organization. For example, messaging tools make communicating remotely easier for you and your team. Aside from this, project management software empowers you to competently supervise work projects. Plus, they enable your staff members to efficiently collaborate with one another.

Business software usually comes in the form of desktop programs or mobile apps. Some tech providers offer free plans, while others showcase paid packages. We included a handy list of productivity programs in a later section of this review. Feel free to select the apps that fit your hybrid work needs and budget.

Step 6: Manage On-Site and Remote Teams

Even after you establish your hybrid arrangement, you need to properly manage your remote and on-site teams on a regular basis to keep workflows running smoothly. Ensure that all employees and contractors are meeting deadlines by keeping track of their progress via online tools.

Even more importantly, make an effort to periodically check individually on your team members to confirm that they’re doing okay on a professional and personal level. After all, the overall well-being of your staff will have an impact on the quality of their work.

Step 7: Schedule Regular Meetings

It’s possible for your employees and freelancers to occasionally feel like they’re each working inside a bubble with the hybrid work setup. After all, they don’t get to see each other on a daily basis like staff members in a conventional office arrangement normally do. That’s why it’s important for you to schedule meetings that are spaced out in regular intervals.

Face-to-face meetings in the office can help you and your team to feel connected with each other, both on a personal and professional level. Real-life interactions are valuable because they enable you to establish a rapport with each other.

To be realistic though, not everyone can attend meetings in person because of geographical limits or health reasons. That’s why you should also arrange virtual meetings to gather the whole team together from time to time.

While online meetings are not as interactive as face-to-face meetings, they can still help your freelancers and employees feel like they’re part of the organization. On one hand, it keeps them updated on the latest developments within the company and the industry. On the other hand, they will have the chance to share their feedback and ideas to the rest of the team for better engagement.

What Else You Need to Know About Hybrid Work

What Is Hybrid Work?

Hybrid work merges together components of remote work and on-site work. It allows employees and contractors to complete their office tasks both at home and in the office. As a result, it gives them the flexibility to work in locations which promote their productivity, while switching between locations as needed.

What Is a Hybrid Work Model?

A hybrid work model is a form of work arrangement which regulates the balance of remote and on-site work involved for the employees and contractors. Plus, it determines who’s responsible for assigning the work schedule of staff members. In general, the management and staff members agree on which hybrid model mutually works for them.

What Are the Different Types of Hybrid Work Models?

The four main kinds of hybrid work arrangements are the remote-first, office-first, flexible, and fixed hybrid models.

Remote-First Model

Employees and freelancers work online through a virtual office setup majority of the time if the company goes for a remote-first hybrid work model. Nevertheless, they are occasionally requested to visit the physical office or coworking space to attend face-to-face meetings or consultations.

Office-First Model

With the office-first hybrid work model, staff members are required to go to work in the physical office most of the time. However, they do have the option of working remotely a few days a week or month.

Flexible Model

Employees and contractors can adjust their working arrangement and location based on their professional needs and preferences, in case the company picks the flexible hybrid working model. While they can stay in the office if they need to personally meet co-workers for collaboration purposes, they can also work at home if they need to concentrate on conceptualizing or completing work projects.

Fixed Model

If they choose the fixed hybrid working model, the company determines the days and hours that staff members will spend working on a remote or on-site basis. Some organizations alternate which employees work at home or in the office on particular dates, while others allow all workers to work remotely on certain days.

What Factors Can Help You Choose a Hybrid Model That Works for Your Business?

You can select a hybrid work model according to the needs and budget of your business. For instance, you must figure out which ratio of home-based and office-based work enables your staff members to boost their work performance.

Aside from this, you should take into account how near or how far your office is from where your employees live, as well as how easy or hard it is for them to travel to the office. Last but not least, you ought to compute how much resources you can afford to invest in office maintenance for the on-site aspect of hybrid work, plus hardware and software for its remote work aspect.

What Are the Advantages of Hybrid Work?

There are various benefits to adopting the hybrid work system for your business. First, your team will have the convenience of working anytime, anywhere if you go for a hybrid setup. Next, you and your employees can increase your productivity if you have conducive working locations and hours. Plus, you’re free to hire professionals who are based in other countries, states, and cities, instead of being limited to your local talent pool.

On top of this, you can stay constantly connected to your staff members with the help of modern technology. In addition to this, you will have less physical exposure to large groups of people, which can be a vital advantage during this pandemic. Finally, you can reduce your expenses related to office or co-working space rental or maintenance.

What Are the Disadvantages of Hybrid Work?

Hybrid work is a useful work arrangement, but it has certain drawbacks too. For example, it can possibly make your employees feel disconnected from each other because they don’t have real-life interactions on a daily basis. Aside from this, one of the effects of remote work is it’s more challenging to collaborate with co-workers, although you can reduce this effect with the help of online productivity tools.

Another limitation of hybrid work is the potential for external distractions at home or in public places when your staff is working remotely. On top of this, it may take time for you and your colleagues to make major decisions about the company if you discuss matters online, instead of during real-life meetings. Last but not least, there may be a risk of data leaks since a lot of your company information is in the cloud, though you can minimize this risk by protecting your data via security solutions.

How Can I Implement Hybrid Work Effectively?

There are practical steps which you can take to ensure that your hybrid setup works efficiently. To start with, you must assess if the hybrid work arrangement is appropriate for your organization, depending on your team’s preferences, location basis, and budget. Next, pick a hybrid model based on your business requirements, such as remote-first, office-first, flexible, or fixed hybrid work models.

Afterwards, create work schedules and assignment lists for all your employees and freelancers so it’s clear to them when they will be working in the office or at home. In addition to this, provide company-issued laptops and electronic devices to your remote workers, if necessary. Aside from this, implement the use of productivity solutions like communication tools and project management software across your organization for better rapport and collaboration.

Once you’ve established a work routine, continue to supervise your on-site and remote team members in a consistent manner. To maintain your connection with each other, hold real-life and online meetings to motivate everyone to coordinate and collaborate with each other. Hybrid work isn’t a perfect solution, but it can make your workflows more effective if you apply the right techniques.

Which Software Apps to Use for Hybrid Work

Business software can improve your hybrid setup, no matter which work model you adopt for your organization. Here are some communication tools and project management software that you can use to streamline the way that you connect with your team and manage your projects whether you’re working at home or in the office:

Communication Tools

Slack

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Slack is a popular messaging platform for businesses of all sizes. It showcases customizable channels where you can participate in online chats with big or small groups. Plus, it allows you to directly message people who are members of the workspace. On top of this, it gives you the chance to share files and conduct surveys among your co-workers.

Slack can be the ideal communication tool for you in case you want to organize your internal business messages using one centralized program. After all, the user interface (UI) is easy to navigate so you can smoothly switch from channel to channel based on the topic you wish to discuss and the particular team you need to reach out to. In addition to this, you can make voice and video calls to your colleagues if you need a higher level of interactivity. Finally, you can integrate Slack with other apps that you regularly use for work.

Although Slack has its benefits as a messaging software, it has certain drawbacks as well. For example, the free plan lets you read only a limited number of recent messages so you must subscribe to a paid plan to unlock older messages. Aside from this, you will just get a single workspace for the basic plans. Last but not least, the pricing of the paid plans can be costly.

Intuitive UI
Voice and video calls for all plans
Strong third-party integrations

Free version only allows access to 10,000 most recent messages
One workspace for low-tier plans
Expensive plan rates

Pricing:

Free: Free
Pro: $6.67/user/month
Business+: $12.50/user/month
Enterprise Grid: Contact Slack to get a quote

Microsoft Teams

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Microsoft Teams is a communication software that is part of the Microsoft 365 ecosystem. It lets you chat with your co-workers and connect with them via audio and video calls. In addition to this, it enables you to share files and documents with your team members so you can brainstorm together.

Microsoft Teams is suitable for you if you mainly use Microsoft solutions for business tasks. After all, it smoothly integrates with Windows OS and various Microsoft products. Plus, the video conferencing tool has a wide range of features, such as live captions, customized background, recordings, and speaker coach. On top of this, the rates are relatively economical so you won’t break the bank even if you sign up for the paid plans.

While Microsoft Teams has its advantages, it also has some disadvantages. For example, your group meetings will be capped to one hour for the free plan and 30 hours for the lowest paid plan. Aside from this, you’ll be stuck with just 5 GB or 10 GB if you go for the basic plans. Finally, you won’t be able to host webinars unless you subscribe to the top-tier package.

Seamless integration
Feature-packed video conferencing tool
Fairly affordable pricing

Group meetings have time limits for low-tier plans
Small storage for basic plans
Webinar hosting available only for premium plan

Pricing:

Microsoft Teams (Free): Free
Microsoft Teams Essentials: $2/user/month
Microsoft 365 Business Basic: $3/user/month
Microsoft 365 Business Standard: $10/user/month

Project Management Software

Trello

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Trello is a project management solution that’s based on the Kanban workflow management style. It allows you to supervise business projects and collaborate with colleagues in a graphic way. Plus, it equips you to keep track of the progress of your team members in a step-by-step manner.

Trello is appropriate for you if you work best with visual methods of project management. That’s because Trello reviews commend it for its UI that’s easy on the eyes. The boards, cards, and lists give you a quick overview of project statuses with just a simple glance. Aside from this, all the plans provide you with unlimited storage in terms of number of files, although there’s a 10 MB and 250 MB cap for each file for the low-tier plans. To top things off, it keeps a record log of all your activities, regardless of which plan you pick.

Although Trello has its strengths, it admittedly has weaknesses too. For instance, it’s more suitable for simple projects than complex ones because it’s more basic compared to other project management programs. Next, you only have a few project view options, which could be a deal-breaker if you want to switch between many types of views. Last but not least, the high rates of the paid plans can be intimidating.

Visually-friendly cards and board
Unlimited storage
Unlimited activity log

Not ideal for complicated projects
Limited project views
Very steep pricing

Pricing:

Free: Free
Standard: $5/user/month
Premium: $10/user/month
Enterprise: $17.50/user/month

monday.com

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monday.com is a cloud-based work OS which is designed for project management. It enables you to oversee your projects using customizable work templates. The joint workspace serves as a venue where you can coordinate with your colleagues. Plus, it gives you the opportunity to create workflow apps without using coding.

monday.com is appropriate for you if you want to manage both complex and simple projects. That’s because you can scale it based on the size and type of project that you wish to plan and execute. In addition to this, it has various hubs that focus on several business aspects, such as HR, sales & CRM, marketing, creative & design, task management, and operations. On top of this, monday.com reviews acknowledge the convenience of its customizable dashboards, which let you monitor the progress of your team.

While monday.com has its pluses as a project management tool, it has its own minuses too. One disadvantage is that the project views are limited if you opt for the basic plans, unlike the premium plans which have varied project views. Aside from this, you can only benefit from automations and integrations if you sign up for one of the pricier plans. Finally, you need to pay for at least three users to subscribe to any of the paid plans.

Ability to manage different levels of projects
Multiple hubs
Personalized dashboards

Limited project views for low-tier plans
Automations & integrations available only for high-tier plans
Minimum of 3 users for paid plans

Pricing:

Free: Free
Basic: $8/seat/month
Standard: $10/seat/month
Pro: $16/seat/month
Enterprise: Contact monday.com to get a quote

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Hybrid Work

Hybrid work is a viable work setup for you in case you want to make the most out of the fusion of on-site work and remote work. Find out the answers to basic questions about hybrid work.

What Types of Jobs Are Ideal for Hybrid Work?

There are certain kinds of jobs that can be performed through a hybrid work arrangement. For example, creative professionals like writers, graphic designers, and video editors can complete most tasks independently on a computer.

Plus, lawyers can prepare legal documents at home, although they need to be physically present for client consultations and court trials. Aside from this, some call center agents can take customer calls remotely, as long as they have the proper VOIP equipment.

Which Kinds of Jobs Aren’t Suitable for Hybrid Work?

There are specific types of jobs that won’t work with a hybrid setup because they need to be accomplished on-site. For instance, maintenance staff have to clean and tidy up facilities in person.

In addition to this, fast food crews have to prepare and serve meals to customers in the actual venue. On top of this, home repair teams need to personally visit the residences of clients to make the necessary repairs and upgrades.

Who Can Approve Hybrid Work Arrangements?

It depends on the hybrid work model that your organization has adopted. If you choose the fixed model, the business owner, managers, and supervisors have the authority to approve hybrid work arrangements. In case you select the flexible model, each team member is granted full or partial freedom by the management to adjust their working locations and hours as needed.

Bottom Line on Hybrid Work

Hybrid work is growing popular as a contemporary work setup because it offers dual benefits: the freedom of remote work and the productivity of office-based work. After reading this how-to guide, we trust that you can easily figure out which hybrid work model is a good match for your business. Even more importantly, we hope that we helped you understand how you can successfully maximize the potential of the hybrid work arrangement in seven simple steps.

May 17, 2022November 23, 2022

Inc Authority Review: Best Free LLC Service

Inc Authority makes it possible for you to set up a limited liability company (LLC) for free. It simplifies the business registration process through its extensive LLC formation services, excellent customer support, and affordability. In this Inc Authority review, we cover its pros, cons, pricing, and features. Find out if the Inc Authority LLC service is a smart choice for your business.

Our Verdict

Inc Authority

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Inc Authority makes it easy for you to register your LLC, thanks to its all-purpose LLC services, accessible customer service, and cost-effectiveness. The free plan is an ideal match for business owners on a budget, while the paid package is a good fit for entrepreneurs with complex LLC requirements. While both the free and paid plans come with a lot of useful features, just be aware that you need to pay extra for additional marketplace services.

Wide range of LLC formation services
Exceptional customer support
Robust free version

Many upselling offers
No BBB accreditation yet
Paid plan pricing not transparent

Inc Authority at a Glance

Inc Authority is an online LLC service that assists entrepreneurs in the formation of LLCs. The mission of the company is to make business ownership an achievable goal for all. Since it was founded in 1989, Inc Authority has helped establish over 250,000 entities in the U.S. Although it focuses on LLC formation, it also offers other startup services, such as business planning, financial funding, and website design.

Inc Authority shines among LLC services because its free plan makes LLC setup assistance accessible for everyone. On top of this, it also stands out for its excellent customer support. Its notable features include business name search, preparation plus filing services, registered agent service, and tax planning consultation. You’ll also get documentation, business credit plus funding analysis, Employer Identification Number (EIN), compliance notifications, website plus email, and customer support.

Who Inc Authority Is Best For

Screenshot of Inc Authority homepage — *Source: Inc Authority*

Inc Authority is best for business owners who want to save time and money as they set up their own LLC. On one hand, the free plan is suitable for startup innovators with limited resources who only need simple LLC services. On the other hand, the paid package is appropriate for entrepreneurs who can afford to pay for comprehensive LLC services.

Pricing

Inc Authority offers two types of plans for business founders who want to establish an LLC. Compare the pricing and features of the two available packages to discover which Inc Authority LLC service is right for you.

Price

Free services (plus state fees)

Contact Inc Authority to get a quote

Business Name Search

Business name check

Business name availability verification

Filing Services

Basic preparation & filing of documents

Custom state filed articles

Registered Agent Service

Yes

Tax Planning Consultation

State & federal tax planning consultation

State & federal tax planning plus professional consultation

Documentation

Digital storage & delivery of startup legal documents

Record book & ownership certificates

Business Credit & Funding Analysis

Yes

Employer Identification Number (EIN)

Yes

Compliance Notifications

None

Annual notifications

Website & Email

None

Website domain & business email addresses

Customer Support

Standard email & phone support

Unlimited phone & online support

To summarize, Inc Authority gives you the option to choose between a free plan and a paid package:

Free LLC (free plus state fees): It provides basic LLC services for beginners at no cost. Keep in mind that, while the setup services are free, you still need to pay for the mandatory state fees.
Starter Business Bundle (quote based): It comes with advanced LLC services and additional features for power users. Reach out to Inc Authority to request a pricing quote.

You can select the Inc Authority plan that suits your business needs and budget. Take note that you need to connect with Inc Authority to learn the pricing of the paid package since the information is not available on the official website.

Inc Authority Features

Inc Authority includes a variety of practical features that simplify the LLC registration procedure for entrepreneurs like you. In this Inc Authority review, let’s delve into the details of business name search, preparation plus filing services, registered agent service, tax planning consultation, documentation, business credit plus funding analysis, Employer Identification Number (EIN), compliance notifications, website plus email, and customer support.

Business Name Search

As a business owner, you must ensure that the name you have chosen for your LLC is unique to your business. The free plan of Inc Authority gives you the chance to check your preferred business name within your state. Plus, the paid package goes an extra step by verifying that this name is still available for use.

Filing Services

You need to complete a lot of paperwork as part of the LLC registration process. Inc Authority helps you set up your LLC for free by preparing your entity formation documents and submitting the requirements to the state. In addition to this, you have the option of requesting the LLC service to file your Form 2553 Election by a Small Business Corporation with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). If you subscribe to the paid plan, Inc Authority can assist you in preparing custom state filed articles as well, which is crucial because an LLC is formed by filing Articles of Organization.

Screenshot of Inc Authority filing page — *Source: Inc Authority*

Registered Agent Service

As an LLC owner, you must hire a registered agent, especially if you don’t have a physical business address located in the state where you registered the LLC. A registered agent is a person or entity who is authorized to accept legal documents and government correspondence on your behalf. Inc Authority can serve as your registered agent to lessen your chances of missing legal mail. The free plan comes with free agent services for one year, while the paid package includes the services of a registered agent.

Tax Planning Consultation

Inc Authority provides you with tax planning assistance, which is an integral part of financial management, so you can maximize the profits of your LLC. Both plans cover state and federal tax guidance to help you save a bigger portion of your business income. The paid package includes tax consultation for up to one hour with a tax professional. Experts from Inc Authority can answer your questions on tax deadlines, inventory, and deductions.

Documentation

Inc Authority aids you in maintaining the legal records of your LLC. The free plan includes the creation of digital copies of your startup legal documents, such as articles of incorporation or organization. A digital copy will be directly sent to you, while another copy will be stored in the client portal in case you need to access it online.

The paid plan levels up your documentation capacity even further. Inc Authority helps you keep a business record book, which contains legal documents that you need to open a business bank account and perform business transactions. Plus, it stores stock certificates to prove that you own the LLC. The business record book enables you to file, save, organize, and locate important company documents in a fast, efficient way.

Business Credit & Funding Analysis

Inc Authority offers business credit and funding analysis services, whether you go for the free plan or the paid package. Experts can review and evaluate your business credit and financing needs. Afterwards, they can recommend potential solutions for your LLC to improve your credit score and financial standing. Business credit services are vital to your business because it allows you to tap into more financial resources you can use to grow your LLC.

Employer Identification Number (EIN)

If you sign up for the paid bundle, Inc Authority will help you get your own Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. The EIN, which is also called Federal Tax Identification Number, can be used to identify your business. It is a requirement for entrepreneurs like you who plan to hire employees and sell products or services. Keep in mind that the EIN service is not available with the free version of Inc Authority.

Compliance Notifications

Inc Authority ensures that your LLC is properly following the business regulations set by federal, state, and local agencies. If you subscribe to the paid package, you will receive annual compliance notifications from Inc Authority. Take note that this feature is not included in the free plan.

Website & Email

Inc Authority will provide you with a website domain for your LLC if you sign up for the paid package. Plus, you will get five email addresses for your business team. Having your own official website and company email allows you to boost brand awareness, generate new leads, and promote your products and services. Just be aware that website and email hosting are not available with the free version of Inc Authority.

Customer Support

Inc Authority offers two levels of customer support. If you choose the free version, you can take advantage of INC CARE Support. The support team can answer your questions about the LLC service through email or phone. Live U.S. based support is available daily from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Time (PT).

In case you select the paid package, you can benefit from Inc Success Advisor advanced customer care, which comes with unlimited phone and online support. You can inquire about different areas of your business, including taxes, accounting, IRS audits, state or local business licenses, payroll or business funding, lawsuit defenses, banking, and credit cards. Thanks to the excellent customer support of Inc Authority, you will have unlimited access to expert guidance as you operate your business.

Alternatives to Inc Authority

Inc Authority is a viable option for you if you need an LLC service with a free version and if you require outstanding customer service. In case you have other priorities, check out other alternatives which you can consider:

IncFile: Good for Flexibility

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IncFile assists business owners with the LLC registration process. This Texas-based LLC service, which was established in 2004, might be suitable for you if you need versatility. IncFile offers three plans with different price points, in contrast to Inc Authority which only has two available plans. Nevertheless, the free version of Inc Authority includes more services than the free version of IncFile.

Flexible plans & pricing
Easy to use

Requires slightly more work than other LLC services
Lacks advanced features compared to similar LLC services

Pricing:

Silver: Free + State fee
Gold: $149 + State fee
Platinum: $299 + State fee

Northwest Registered Agent: Good for Security

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Northwest Registered Agent is a registered agent service that offers LLC formation services. It could be ideal for you if you value security, thanks to its Privacy by Default feature. It protects your company information by reducing exposure and access to your data. Northwest Registered Agent offers tighter security compared to Inc Authority and other LLC services. Still, the free plan of Inc Authority which includes LLC services is superior to the free version of Northwest, which only walks you through a DIY process.

Strong security protection
Registered agent service is included

Free version lacks LLC formation services
Less features compared to other LLC services

Pricing:

Do It Yourself: Free
VIP Service: Monthly fee. Amount based on state.
Pay in Full: $225 up front fee

Rocket Lawyer: Good for Legal Services

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Rocket Lawyer is an online legal service that provides LLC formation assistance. It may be appropriate for you if you need legal professionals to handle your LLC filing and complete your paperwork. Unlike Inc Authority, Rocket Lawyer gives you access to legal information and affordable representation. However, it doesn’t offer a free plan for non-members in the same way that Inc Authority does.

Access to legal expertise
Membership includes free incorporation filing

No free plan for non-members
Costly add-on services

Pricing:

Incorporation Filing for Non-members: $99.99 + state fees
Premium Membership: $39.99 / month.
- New members: Free incorporation filing
- Members: 25% off on incorporation filing fee + state fees

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Inc Authority LLC Service

Inc Authority is an affordable LLC service that is worth considering if you need aid in registering your company. Learn the answers to basic questions about Inc Authority and LLCs to find out if this online incorporation service and business structure is right for you.

What Is Inc Authority?

Inc Authority is an online LLC service that helps business owners to set up an LLC. Established more than three decades ago, it offers a full range of LLC formation services through its free plan and paid package.

It includes many useful features, such as business name check and verification, preparation and filing assistance, registered agent service, tax planning, documentation storage, business credit and funding analysis, Employer Identification Number (EIN), annual compliance notifications, website domain plus email addresses, and customer service.

What Is an LLC?

A limited liability company (LLC) is a for-profit business organization that protects the assets of business owners. This business structure minimizes the chances that owners will be held responsible for the debts and liabilities of the company. An LLC may be owned by one or more persons, corporations, and other entities. Every state in the U.S. has its own regulations on LLCs.

What Are the Benefits of Using Inc Authority To Start an LLC?

There are major advantages to using Inc Authority to register your LLC. First, you have the option of choosing a free plan or paid bundle depending on your current budget and needs. Next, it includes a lot of LLC formation services. Finally, you can count on its accessible customer support if you need business advice or technical support.

Do I Need To Open a Bank Account For My LLC?

Yes. We recommend that you open a new bank account after you register your LLC so you can keep your business finances separate from your personal finances. The best small business bank accounts for LLCs make it simpler for you to manage your company assets and expenses. An LLC bank account also makes it easier for you to conduct financial transactions for your business.

Bottom Line on Inc Authority Review

Inc Authority enables you to start your LLC for free. It is a great match for you if you need a handy LLC service with multiple LLC formation tools, solid customer support, and budget-friendly pricing. Now that you have read our Inc Authority review, you can easily decide whether Inc Authority LLC service is a good choice for you or not.

May 6, 2022February 9, 2023

What Types of Business Licenses Do You Need?

Business licenses and permits grant you the right to legally operate your business in the U.S. However, there are various types of business licenses which are issued by federal, state, and local agencies. Learn which business licenses you need and how to get a business license.

How To Get a Business License

Each business license type has its own set of application requirements. Still, there is a general process which you need to complete no matter what kind of license you are applying for. Follow the steps below to get the right licenses for your business.

Step 1: Find Out What Business Licenses You Need

Learn what licenses & permits you need based on your business structure, location & industry type

Step 2: Gather License Requirements

Collect all the necessary documents & requirements

Step 3: Submit Your License Application

Fill out and submit your application for each business license type

Step 4: Wait for Approval

Submit missing requirements (if any) & follow up on the approval of your application

Step 5: Maintain Your Business Licenses

Renew your business licenses & permits before they expire

Step 1: Find Out What Business Licenses You Need

First of all, discover which kinds of licenses are appropriate for the business you are establishing, based on the following factors:

Business Structure: The structure type which you select when you start your business will determine your registration requirements. Some popular business structures are sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, and limited liability company (LLC).
Business Location: The state, county, and city where you are planning to set up your business will have an impact on which local, state, and federal regulations are applicable to you.
Industry Type: Depending on the industry you are part of, you may need special licenses and permits to prove that you and your team are qualified to sell particular products or provide certain professional services.

Figure out the types of business licenses and permits you need by conducting research. You can explore the websites of government agencies to find useful information and download forms. In case you have questions regarding the application process, you may contact the agencies directly via phone, email, or contact form. On top of this, you can also check out government websites for helpful tips on how to start your business.

Step 2: Gather License Requirements

Collect all the essential documents and meet all the necessary requirements before you apply for a business license. While the exact paperwork may vary depending on the license types you need, here are some common requirements for most licenses:

Business description, plans, and location overview
Sales tax permit and other tax documents
Corporate records
Ownership and management documents
Filing fees

You may also be required to provide other requirements if you belong to some business industries:

Proof of professional qualifications or training credentials for you and key members of your team
Financial statements
Insurance records
Surety bonds

Step 3: Submit Your License Application

Apply for licenses and permits with the appropriate government agencies. Fill out and submit an application form for each business license you are pursuing. Carefully read and follow the instructions since every form has its own prerequisites. Although you can submit most forms online, some forms should be sent via mail or fax. Plus, certain forms must be notarized or signed by several parties.

Step 4: Wait for Approval

Stand by while your license application is still pending since the waiting period can vary. While some agencies approve business licenses right away, others could take several weeks or even months to grant approval. Feel free to reach out to the agency to follow up on your approval status after you have waited for a reasonable period of time. In case an agency contacts you regarding your incomplete application, send the requirements you lack immediately. After all, missing prerequisites can cause delays in the approval process.

Step 5: Maintain Your Business Licenses

Once you successfully gain your business licenses and permits, make sure to maintain each one so you can keep operating your business. Most licenses are only valid for a set period of time, which is why you need to renew them before they expire. Fulfill all the renewal requirements so you can continue to be authorized to run your business.

What Are the Types of Business Licenses

There are different types of business licenses and permits that you can apply for, depending on the kind of business you are setting up. Discover what these license types are and whom they are recommended for. Find out where and how to register each license and how much the application fees typically cost.

1. General Business License

A general business license is a government document that gives you permission to start a business in a certain jurisdiction. In general, it is commonly issued in the form of a tax registration certificate. You need to apply for a general business license with the city, county, or state agency that is responsible for business registrations. Submit the license application form, fees, and other requirements to get this license.

Recommended For: Most business owners in the U.S.

Estimated Fee: Approximately $50 or higher. Exact amount depends on the state, county, or city.

2. DBA License

The “doing business as” (DBA) license allows you to operate your business under a different brand name than your legal business name. While your business name is your personal name by default if you establish a sole proprietorship or partnership, you have the option of selecting a fictitious or trade name to rebrand your business.

You can register your DBA name with the county clerk’s office or the state government. In addition to this, certain states require DBA name filings to be made public to protect the interests of consumers. Take note that you don’t need to file a DBA if you are operating under your own name and if you own an LLC or corporation with a registered business name.

Recommended For: Business owners who wish to operate a sole proprietorship or partnership under a trade name

Estimated Fee: Ranging from around $5 to $100. Exact amount depends on the county or state.

3. Seller’s Permit

The seller’s permit is a kind of business license that grants you authority to collect sales tax on the taxable products and services you offer to customers. Once you acquire a seller’s permit, you are responsible for remitting the taxes you collected to the state. You must submit an application to your state’s Department of Revenue to get a seller’s permit. Take note that five states do not impose sales tax, including Alaska, Montana, Delaware, Oregon, and New Hampshire.

Recommended For: Business owners who provide taxable products and services to consumers

Estimated Fee: Free in most states. Ranging from around $12 to $100 in some states.

4. Federal Business License

The federal business license gives you permission to run a business which involves activities regulated by a federal agency. You should get a federal business license if your business is related to agriculture, broadcasting, investment consultancy, alcohol, and meat product preparation.

Government agencies that issue federal business licenses include the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB), and U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Each agency has its own prerequisites so you must contact the relevant agency to discover the requirements for your business.

Recommended For: Business owners who belong to certain industries, such as meat product preparation, alcohol, investment, agriculture, and broadcasting.

Estimated Fee: Depends on business industry and issuing agency

5. Zoning Permit

A zoning permit allows you to operate your business in a particular location, given the type of venture you own and the industry you belong to. After all, different municipalities have their own rules regarding which kinds of businesses can run in certain spots. You need to get a zoning permit for your business from your county or city zoning department. You are required to follow the zoning guidelines in your area to gain a zoning permit.

Recommended For: Business owners running a brick-and-mortar store, distribution center, or manufacturing facility

Estimated Fee: Varies widely depending on the state and the size of commercial property. Ranges from around $50 to $1,500.

6. Building Permit

The building permit gives you permission to construct a new building or to remodel an old building. You or your contractor must apply for a building permit from the building department of your city or town. In order to get a permit, you will typically be required to submit your site, structural, and architectural plans. Plus, you might need to provide information regarding safety protocols, accessibility, electrical, plumbing, and occupancy.

Recommended For: Business owners who plan to start a new construction project or to make major changes to existing structures

Estimated Fee: Widely varies based on size, complexity, and location of the construction project. Ranges from around $400 to $2,200+.

7. Occupational License

An occupational license grants you the authority to provide certain professional services through your business. In order to get an occupational license, you need to prove to the board or other certifying bodies in your industry that you gained the necessary skills and knowledge in your field through proper training and education.

Some industries require you to take and pass a written or practical exam, while others expect you to complete training modules or educational courses. Keep in mind that the actual requirements will depend on the type of occupational license you are pursuing.

Recommended For: Business owners and team members who practice specialized occupations, such as medicine, healthcare, law, accounting, real estate, electrical work, plumbing, and cosmetology

Estimated Fee: Based on the type of occupational or professional license. Starts at $60.

8. Health Permit

A health permit allows you to operate your business by verifying that you have met the safety standards of the health department. You need to get a health permit if your business is related to food preparation and distribution or if it involves direct body contact with customers. If your business falls under these criteria, you must apply for a health permit with your county health department. You will typically be required to undergo facility inspections, as well as to complete certification courses based on your type of business.

Recommended For: Business owners of restaurants, food delivery services, beauty salons, massage parlors, and nail spas

Estimated Fee: Widely varies based on the business industry, size, and location. Ranges from around $100 to $3,000+.

9. Special State License

A special state license gives you permission to sell certain types of products, such as alcohol, gasoline, firearms, and lottery tickets. You need to apply for this type of license to prove that you have met state-regulated standards related to the sale of these items. Some examples of state agencies that issue special state licenses are the Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) and state gambling agencies. The requirements differ based on the type of license you are applying for and the issuing agency you are coordinating with.

Recommended For: Business owners who offer goods like alcohol, lottery tickets, firearms, and gasoline for sale to consumers

Estimated Fee: Depends on the business industry and issuing agency.

What You Need To Know About Business Licenses

Do I Need a Business License?

Yes. You need a business license to operate a business venture in the U.S., whether you are planning to build a small startup or a large corporation. It’s important for you to figure out which business licenses you should apply for because there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to licenses and permits. You can determine the type and amount of business licenses you need based on the size, industry, and location of your business.

Should I Apply for a Business License Independently or With Professional Help?

It is possible for you to apply for a business license independently. After all, there are forms which you can download and information which you can read on official government websites. However, it is still a smart choice for you to consult with experts to ensure that your business meets all the regulatory requirements of the local, state, and federal government.

You can hire an accountant and lawyer if you need professional assistance in setting up a small, mid-sized, or large business. Aside from this, you also have the option of utilizing one of the best LLC services if you want to start your own LLC with minimal hassle.

What Do I Need To Do To Start a Business Aside From Getting a Business License?

There are other vital tasks that you need to complete aside from getting licenses and permits if you are starting your own business, such as:

Get an EIN: Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) if you plan to hire employees or to offer products and services through your business. You can get an EIN online from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
Create a Bank Account: Open a business bank account to store your business funds and facilitate financial transactions. Consolidating your business resources in a dedicated account makes it easier for you to monitor your sales, profits, and expenses. You can also open a business account with EIN only.
Hire a Registered Agent: Enlist the services of a registered agent if you are establishing an LLC or corporation. A registered agent is a person or entity authorized to receive legal correspondence and documents on behalf of your business.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for How to Get a Business License

Learning how to get a business license makes it simpler for entrepreneurs like you to establish a business. Discover the answers to common questions about business licenses and permits.

What Is a Business License?

A business license is a government document issued by federal, state, and local agencies to businesses. It grants permission to entrepreneurs to start and operate a business in a particular geographical jurisdiction. It serves as proof that a business is legally authorized by the U.S. government to sell products and services or to manufacture or distribute goods.

What Are the Different Types of Business Licenses?

There are various types of business licenses that are available in the U.S., including the general business license, DBA license, seller’s permit, federal business license, zoning permit, building permit, occupational license, health permit, and special state license.

Each type of business license has its own application process, requirements, and fees which are determined by the issuing agency. Plus, every license has its own validity period and renewal requirements.

Which Factors Should I Consider When Choosing a Business License?

There are different factors which you should consider when determining which business licenses and permits you should apply for. The first factor is the structure type you are planning to adapt for your business. The second factor is the geographical location of your business. Last but not least, the third factor is the specific industry that your business belongs to.

Bottom Line on How to Get a Business License

Applying for business licenses is one of the first steps to starting your own legitimate business. We hope that this guide helped you figure out which types of business licenses and permits you need as an entrepreneur. Bookmark this page so you can quickly review how to get a business license.

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