Business Bank Account

• Generally, a bank will only cash a check made out to your business if you have a corresponding business bank account. The company name on the check has to match the business name on the account. The rules vary depending on the bank, and some banks may have stricter requirements than others. Some banks might not cash the business check (at least not the entire amount) but require the owner to deposit it instead to ensure that it clears.
  
  

Depends on the Bank

• While most banks require you to have a business account in order to cash your check, some banks may make a concession for a long-time customer with a solid personal banking history and account status. If you can prove that you are the company owner (a sole proprietor) with official business registration paperwork from the state listing your name, a bank might cash the check (or require you to deposit it) with a personal account. It helps if the business name contains your name. Check with a manager at your bank for confirmation of the rules before you start receiving payments.
  
  

Opening Account

• If you need to open a business account to cash your check, gather a few key papers to bring to the bank. You need your business registration certificate, business license, proof of business taxpayer ID (EIN--employer identification number), articles of incorporation (if a corporate entity) and filed DBA (doing business as) form among other items. You also need to provide your personal information as the owner or representative to open a business bank account.
  
  

Suggestions

• If you do not yet have a business check account or business registration or incorporation paperwork, ask your customers to send you checks in your personal name until you do. When you are a sole proprietor, your name represents the company. Also, some clients may require an EIN before issuing payment, get an EIN for the business even if you request payment in your personal name.