There are many banking institutions in Oklahoma, and as a business owner, you'll need to use one of these banks for your company's banking needs. From checking accounts to loans, these full-service banks have everything your business could want.

Sure, you could try to run your business using just cash or using your own personal banking accounts. But these practices lead to confusing bookkeeping chores and you risk running into problems when tax time rolls around. By taking advantage of the services offered by Oklahoma banks, you'll find that record keeping is much simpler and more reliable. Consider the following when thinking about your company's needs:

1. Open a checking account at a bank in Oklahoma. These accounts are vital to successfully managing business funds.

2. Apply for a business credit card. Most banks in Oklahoma offer these point-of-sale payment solutions for owners like you.

3. Take out a loan if you need to. Oklahoma banking institutions will determine how much you qualify for so you can continue building your business.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Open a small business checking account at one of the many Oklahoma banks

Having a bank account is important to every business owner: This is where you'll place deposits from income you receive and write checks for the bills you owe. If you have a merchant account, your deposits will automatically go into the account. You'll have paychecks to think of as well. Opening a checking account should be one of the first things on your list.

I recommend: Browse through the benefits of a business checking account at Great Plains National Bank. With more than 10 locations across the state, Landmark Bank has solutions for both small businesses and large corporations.

Consider getting a business credit card from an Oklahoma banking institution

There are actually a few reasons for using a credit card for business transactions. First of all, you can charge important items if you're running short on cash but don't want to take out a large installment loan. You can give cards to your employees and track their usage of expense accounts. You can also earn valuable rewards for your business by taking advantage of cash-back and travel points programs.

I recommend: Check out the different cards offered by Arvest Bank, which has branches all over the state. Apply for one of the credit card programs at Bank of Oklahoma if you live in the central region of the state.

Get an installment loan from one of the banks in Oklahoma

For business owners who are having trouble getting started or who would like to expand, a business loan from an Oklahoma bank can really help out. Some loans are short-term, while others are paid back over a long period of time, like a mortgage loan.

I recommend: Consider getting a loan from American Bank and Trust if your place of business is in the Tulsa area. Take advantage of one of the loans available from Canadian State Bank.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you would like to accept credit cards, you'll need a merchant account. These accounts are available from most large banks as well as some local banks, so while you're looking into other services, ask Oklahoma banking representatives about merchant services as well.