Bonsai Business Software Blog

Insights from thousands of business owners
on growing your business.

Confused between an invoice vs receipt? Understand the key difference between invoices and receipts and do business the right way!

Studio

Professionals often ask “what is an SoW” and do I really need one? This comprehensive guide will help you understand what the statement of work document is and how it applies to your day-to-day small business operations.

Billing can be a long an arduous cycle if you don't have the right systems in place. Explore 6 unique ways you can make it much easier to get paid quicker and with less time spent on administrative tasks.

Studio

Are you a freelancer who just received a chargeback? Learn what are chargebacks and how to prevent them. These tips will be a game-changer for your business!

Finding work

MSA plays a vital role in establishing and governing relationships between parties. Let us shed some light on the elements of an MSA contract.

Studio

White label software has become a valuable asset for small businesses who are on a quest to improve their branding efforts and professional image.

Taxes

Many business owners seem to find it difficult to decide between Venmo Business vs Venmo Personal. We’ll discuss that as well as some Venmo Alternatives too.

Studio

As a small business owner, understanding the various IRS-required forms for subcontractors is absolutely essential to remain compliant. This guide will let you know all about creating 1099 forms and what types of forms you may need..

Finding work

As a self-employed professional, you need to know all of the various elements of a contract to be successful and protected. This ultimate guide will walk you through all you need to know.

Finding work

Read on for our complete guide on how to conduct an interior design consultation based on your unique client needs. Learn the do's and don'ts today.

Taxes

Explore Bonsai Banking - the integrated small business banking solution providing financial services for interior designers and other self-employed professionals. Compare your options and discover the Bonsai advantage.

Discover the best email templates from the first customer touchpoint to the last and streamline your client communications.

Studio

Your residential or commercial design project is multi-faceted. Read on to get our architect-designed and approved checklist to kickoff your projects and ensure they run smoothly from start to finish.

Learn key strategies for getting interior design clients. Read on for new tips on how to scale your clientele and find new potential clients.

Finding work

Discover the secrets of branding for architects. Read on to learn how to hone your own signature and communicate your style to prospective clients.

Studio

Protect your architecture business with the right insurance coverage. Learn about the different types of insurance for architects and how they can benefit you.

Studio

The right remodeling software can make or break your business. Read our comprehensive comparison breakdown to select the right software for your unique business needs.

Studio

Curious about the process of architectural design? Learn about it in this comprehensive guide. Develop strategies to help you price out your services at every milestone of the process with automated invoicing.

Finding work

In order to get the best interior design clients, you need to keep moving forward with training and education. To do so, we provide the best interior design certifications in 2023.

Marketing yourself

Discover the best apps for interior design from furniture decor layout to interior design business management. Try out our top 10 picks.

Marketing yourself

Struggling to price your architect services to perfection? Read on to learn how to attract clients with your pricing strategy without leaving too much on the table.

Finding work

If you also think an interior designer is the same as a decorator, you’re not alone. However, that’s not the case. Read on to learn how they are different.

Finding work

Discover ways PLA Landscape Architects streamline their workflows using the top business software available. Learn what software you should consider switching to for your landscape design business.

Marketing yourself

Curious about interior designer earnings? Discover real-life pricing strategies to help you maximize your profit. Find more info about how much interior designers make in this article

Finances

Want to streamline your accounting practice? Read this article to learn more about how accounting practice management software can help you increase efficiency, reduce errors, and offer better customer service.

Finances

There are multiple ways to take payments online. Learn the tips pros use when taking payments and to decide which method to use over others when running your business.

Finances

Discover 30+ invoicing software options. Explore free invoicing software and choose the right invoicing app for your freelance or small business.

Finances

How much does a life coach charge exactly? Well, we'll go over the different pricing structures for the various services here in this article. From one-on-one coaching to monthly packages, we'll show you the market rates for life coaching services.

Finances

A common question asked by many business owners is: how many business bank accounts can you have? Well, technically, as many as you want. You just need to meet certain requirements. We'll discuss it in this article.

Finances

Should you open a business bank account? Why? Well, in this article, we'll go over the top reasons or benefits of having a business bank account. We'll show you how it can separate your business transactions, simplify your taxes, and help you better organize your funds.

Finances

Does a sole proprietor need a business checking account? Well, no. But in this article, we'll go over why it may be a good idea to have one. We'll review some of the benefits of having a separate account in case you get in trouble with the IRS.

Finances

If you are a startup looking for the best banking solution for your growing business, then tune into this article. We'll compare the banking options for your startup and the different features available.

Finances

Read our reviews of the 7 best bank accounts to open in Florida. We'll walk you through all the things you need to keep in mind when looking for a business bank account such as fees, requirements or interest.

Finances

Freelance done right is professional, and how you invoice clients is important. In just 7 steps, ensure your invoicing is right. You'll have more time for work.

Finances

Here are some tips on how to bill clients for your consulting services.

Finances

If you are looking for the best business bank account with sub accounts, read more here. We'll show you why Bonsai Cash is the all-in-one business bank account with subfolders you'll need to organize your finances.

Finances

An EIN is becoming industry standard for freelancers and is a secure way to share your tax info for reporting purposes. Discover why you do need an EIN.

Finances

Many business owners ask if opening a business bank account impacts credit score? Well, no. This is because you will not be dealing with credit to build history. We'll dive deeper on this topic

Finances

If you would like to know what the best business bank accounts for LLC owners is, then pay close attention. In this article, we'll review the top 7 and let you in on what you should look for in a business checking account.

Finances

If you are searching for the best consultant billing software, then read this review. In this article, we'll go over all the reasons why Bonsai is the clear winner and best choice for invoicing/billing.

Finances

Discover how to ask for payment in an email in just 3 steps. Download our 5 email templates and use them right away.

Finances

If you are looking for a debit card for your freelance business, then try a one of these bank accounts. We'll review the different features of each, the different benefits of a business account, and show you the best freelancer bank account on the market.

Finances

If you are in the market for an online bank account, try Bonsai Cash. Our business bank account is virtually guaranteed and comes at no cost. It's a no-brainer to open!

Finances

Can you open a business checking account with just an EIN? Well, not quite. There are certain circumstances where you'll need an EIN but it's only one part of the process. We'll review the required documents in this article.

Finances

Does Chime offer a business account? Well, no. That's why we're going to show you some top alternatives for Chime where you can create a business account to separate your transactions for taxes.

Finances

if you are planning to incorporate, you'll need a separate business bank account for your operation. It is required to separate your legal entity and your personal finances. Read on to discover how to open a bank account for your corporation.

Finances

What's the difference between a business account and a personal one? Should you separate them for your business? In this article, we'll answer the key contrasts between the two accounts and how to decide if you need one for your business.

Finances

Never miss another payment with Bonsai, a professional services automation suite, made for consultants, agencies, coaches and other professional services.

Legal

Looking to learn how to draft a contract? In just 9 simple steps, we’ll show you what to include and how to put it in writing for a legally-bound document.

Legal

Learn more about the do's and don'ts in creating your graphic design portfolio.

Legal

Electronic signatures are more convenient, faster, and as good as the traditional ones. Here's a complete guide on how you can sign your documents digitally.

Legal

When you’re deciding how much to charge for a logo design, there are two main variables: how much time you spend working before the actual design and how many revisions you go through. Here’s how to take them both into account when calculating your rate.

Legal

What is a retainer fee, and how does a retainer work? We give you 9 key points to ensure a retainer relationship is successful for you and your client.

Legal

As a graphic designer, having a contract will help ensure that there will be no misunderstandings between you and your clients. Here are some useful tips on how you write your contract.

Legal

What happens when you underpay estimated taxes? Well, you'll receive a tax underpayment penalty. In this article, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about this penalty and how to avoid it.

Legal

Review the 5 most common types of contracts for construction work here. We'll go over each one and show you a way to quickly customize a legally reviewed agreement and get your business deal off the ground.

Legal

How to review a contract as a freelancer? Use this simple checklist to safeguard yourself against legal ramifications, pay disputes and changes in project scope.

Legal

There are many excuses for not using an agreement with clients, but none of them are good. Here is why it's important to always get one.

Legal

Many freelancers and clients don’t fully understand the differences between a proposal and contract. It’s time you learned.

Legal

The biggest points of confusion are always surrounding money. How to buff up your contract to protect you from late, or non-paying clients.

Legal

Freelancers love retainers. Having a retainer agreement or retainer fee in place bring peace of mind. Use one of 5 downloadable sample retainer clauses!

Legal

Is a contract between two parties legally binding if it's only verbal? We take a look at this and more in our guide to verbal agreements.

Legal

Creating the perfect marketing contract shouldn't be complicated. Bonsai is here to help.

Legal

Writing a contract is a huge step in your freelance career. It legitimizes your business, protects your reputation, and safeguards your payment. Learn more on our blog.

Legal

Wondering how to sign a contract online? Take a look at our detailed guide that explains everything, step by step.

Marketing yourself

Discover the best apps for interior design from furniture decor layout to interior design business management. Try out our top 10 picks.

Marketing yourself

Struggling to price your architect services to perfection? Read on to learn how to attract clients with your pricing strategy without leaving too much on the table.

Marketing yourself

Curious about interior designer earnings? Discover real-life pricing strategies to help you maximize your profit. Find more info about how much interior designers make in this article

Marketing yourself

Discover which software options are best for running your architecture business at all phases including design, business software, project management software, and even CAD & BIM.

Marketing yourself

Learn about Interior design trade shows to help your business grow and to help other get inspiration. Read on to learn more about these trade shows and how to use them to grow your business.

Marketing yourself

Are you planning to create an architect portfolio to showcase your professional experience? Here is a condensed guide to help you out.

Marketing yourself

The interior design industry is quite extensive and includes a variety of service providers. We’ll explore a few kinds of interior designers you can learn about to grow your client base.

Marketing yourself

Learn the secrets of marketing your interior design businesses for meaningful results. Get more clients and grow the reach of your business with Bonsai.

Marketing yourself

Have you ever wondered how much accountants charge for their services? This article will let you know all about how they structure their fees.

Marketing yourself

‍‍Last month, the Bonsai team sat down with one of our Bonsai coaching partners, Amy, owner of the coaching brand, Dare to Parent. We talked a bit about Amy’s brand, how she discovered Bonsai, and how she uses Bonsai to automate her workflows and reduce the amount of admin overhead time she spends running her business.

Marketing yourself

Every successful coaching business is backed with strong branding. Read on for a complete guide to branding yourself, and discover the secrets pros use to scale their coaching business with branding.

Marketing yourself

A coaching bio gives you an edge over the competition by highlighting your strengths and methods. Learn how to write a coaching bio here with examples from the pros.

Marketing yourself

Client Testimonials are great for new clients, but are only half the battle. Learn the top actionable, quick tips coaching pros use to generate new clients using case studies.

Marketing yourself

Wondering how to write an effective coaching email to your clients and prospects? Discover the secrets of the pros as we uncover the top 6 coaching email template strategies along with a few free samples to get you started.

Marketing yourself

Discover what an executive coach program template is and the best tools coaches can use for saving time, saving money, and growing their business.

Marketing yourself

Learn everything you need to about how to get certified as an executive coach, why you should pursue it, and how you can better market yourself as a coach once credentialed.

Marketing yourself

Discover how to select coaching business names, and the best tools coaches can use for saving time, saving money, and growing their business

Marketing yourself

Learn what a marketing pitch is, and how to craft one for yourself and for your business. We provide a 11 step guide and 5 downloadable templates.

Marketing yourself

One way to show your value to new clients is sharing positive feedback. Boost how you ask for testimonials using 7 hacks and a sample request email.

Marketing yourself

Get to know the rates of more than 100,000 freelancers and use that data as an asset when negotiating new contracts.

Marketing yourself

Looking to become a freelance marketing consultant? Discover 4 key tips and download the detailed 12 step freelance marketing consultant cheat sheet!

Marketing yourself

If you are an architect looking for advice for what to charge your clients, then read this article. We'll give you ten things to consider when you are setting your hourly rate.

Marketing yourself

No specific strategy will work for everyone, but getting the right advice will help you become a successful freelancer.

Marketing yourself

Wondering how to become an SEO expert? We put together a step by step blueprint, covering everything from learning and practicing to getting clients.

Finding work

MSA plays a vital role in establishing and governing relationships between parties. Let us shed some light on the elements of an MSA contract.

Finding work

As a self-employed professional, you need to know all of the various elements of a contract to be successful and protected. This ultimate guide will walk you through all you need to know.

Finding work

Read on for our complete guide on how to conduct an interior design consultation based on your unique client needs. Learn the do's and don'ts today.

Finding work

Discover the secrets of branding for architects. Read on to learn how to hone your own signature and communicate your style to prospective clients.

Finding work

In order to get the best interior design clients, you need to keep moving forward with training and education. To do so, we provide the best interior design certifications in 2023.

Finding work

If you also think an interior designer is the same as a decorator, you’re not alone. However, that’s not the case. Read on to learn how they are different.

Finding work

Discover ways PLA Landscape Architects streamline their workflows using the top business software available. Learn what software you should consider switching to for your landscape design business.

Finding work

Curious how architectural design software fits into the architecture workflow and differs from architectural project management software? Read on to learn the difference and how to leverage it.

Finding work

E-design has been around for a while but has really started to accelerate over the past 2 years. Cash in on this growing trend with Bonsai automation.

Finding work

Keeping in touch with clients and corresponding with them is an essential part of consulting client management. Here is how consulting email templates can help.

Finding work

Managing all interior design business tasks would be an exhausting and time-consuming process for a single person. Thankfully, software programs and apps exist that can make operating an interior design business much more efficient

Finding work

Engagement letters protect you legally and set the scope of your work. Learn everything you need to know about writing engagement letters – from what they should include to common pitfalls to avoid.

Finding work

You might be wondering what the optimal tax preparation fees are for this day and age. If you want to know how much you should charge, read on.

Finding work

Looking for a career pivot in 2023? Leverage the skills you have to start a liberating and profitable business! Discover some of the most lucrative niches in our roundup

Finding work

Learn the ins and outs of writing a life coaching contract and discover a smarter way to handle contracts for your life coaching business.

Finding work

Learn how to start an executive coaching business with this end-to-end guide and discover the best tools to use for saving time, saving money, and growing your executive coaching business.

Finding work

If you are looking into becoming a certified life coach, read this. We'll go over the steps you need to take and answer the most common questions to starting a career as a life coach.

Finding work

Turning a hobby into a career is both rewarding and fulfilling. If you want to pursue your passion in photography, here are some tips on how to get started.

Finding work

Struggling with listing freelance work on your resume? Use this 4 step guide to get you started on the right foot - freelance resume samples included!

Finding work

Here are some useful tips on how to get new clients for your graphic design business

Finding work

If you are an architect, potential clients will produce an RFP to help organize who to select for a job. In this article, we'll go over the different requirements and how to submit a winning proposal.

Finding work

In this post, you’ll learn how to use social media to generate a steady stream of lucrative, long-term freelance clients.

Finding work

Would you like to become a consultant? Here's a detailed guide on how to get started.

Finding work

There are many businesses you can start with a small amount of capital. In fact, we'll show you. In this article, we'll introduce the best businesses to start with only $5,000.

Studio

Professionals often ask “what is an SoW” and do I really need one? This comprehensive guide will help you understand what the statement of work document is and how it applies to your day-to-day small business operations.

Studio

Are you a freelancer who just received a chargeback? Learn what are chargebacks and how to prevent them. These tips will be a game-changer for your business!

Studio

White label software has become a valuable asset for small businesses who are on a quest to improve their branding efforts and professional image.

Studio

As a small business owner, understanding the various IRS-required forms for subcontractors is absolutely essential to remain compliant. This guide will let you know all about creating 1099 forms and what types of forms you may need..

Studio

Your residential or commercial design project is multi-faceted. Read on to get our architect-designed and approved checklist to kickoff your projects and ensure they run smoothly from start to finish.

Studio

Protect your architecture business with the right insurance coverage. Learn about the different types of insurance for architects and how they can benefit you.

Studio

The right remodeling software can make or break your business. Read our comprehensive comparison breakdown to select the right software for your unique business needs.

Studio

Curious about the process of architectural design? Learn about it in this comprehensive guide. Develop strategies to help you price out your services at every milestone of the process with automated invoicing.

Studio

Landscape design software are perfect for designers who need quick and efficient results. Read on to learn some incredible options for designers.

Studio

Looking for a way to manage leads for your architecture business? Discover how Bonsai CRM can help you organize your leads from first contact through proposal, contract, and invoices.

Studio

A dedicated software can help you out in every industry. For instance, time tracking software for architects can be indispensable. Here’s what you need to do.

Studio

Discover how CRM tools help service providers and business owners with practice management and client communication.

Studio

Our interior design process checklist is a comprehensive guide to help you get started with your design project. Avoid pitfalls by using our tried-and-true process.

Studio

Are you a consultant who needs to manage customer relationships more efficiently? Check out our list of the best CRM for consultants and find one that fits your business!

Studio

Discover the best CRMs for interior designers. Curious about our methodology and rankings? Read on for a detailed breakdown of which is right for your business.

Studio

In this day and age, managing tax preparation is being made easier. That is where EFIN comes in. If you want to know how to get an EFIN, then this article is for you!

Studio

Small business accounting is essential for financial security, organization, and success. Here are the top 10 forms that are essential for accountants to maintain.

Studio

The right CRM can improve your client relations and boost your sales – but what is the best CRM for accountants? Here’s our review of the top 6 CRMs for accountants in 2023.

Studio

Ready to optimize your accounting processes? It’s time to invest in the best accounting project management tools. Read on for our top recommendations.

Studio

Discover the best all in one coaching app to supercharge your coaching business. Leave the hassle of trial and error and discover the top coaching app features for maximum profits.

Studio

CRMs can make or break your coaching business. Don't let Subpar CRM systems hinder you. Explore the best CRM tools for coaches in 2023 and supercharge your growth.

Studio

If you are looking for the best coaching tool on the market, try Bonsai. Bonsai has everything from time tracking, task management, tax, proposal templates to intake forms.

Studio

If you are looking for the best coach software on the market for your business, then read this. This review guide will go over the top rated 6 best softwares for you to use to simplify your coaching business.

Studio

Drafting your first subcontractor agreement can be a little nerve-wracking. Discover our top 10 tips that will help you draft your first one.

Others

This is a common question asked among freelancers and solopreneurs...at what point do I need an LLC? Well, in this article, we'll go over when you should create and LLC as well as the advantages/disadvantages of creating one.

Others

Using the best tools is essential for your success as a designer. These 35 best tools for graphic designers & web designers are a must-know!

Others

If you are a sole proprietor who is looking to incorporate into an LLC, then read this guide. We'll go over all the steps you need to take in order to convert your solo business into a limited liability company.

Others

We review 10 Dubsado alternatives - the best and greatest out there. Which one is right for you and your business?

Others

If you are looking for the best States to open an LLC, then this article is for you. We'll break down the Delaware, Wyoming, Nevada and show you why opening an LLC in your home State may be the best option.

Others

If you are looking for the best States to incorporate in, tune into this article. We'll weigh out the pros and cons of incorporating in the best "tax-friendly" States and all the benefits you could receive.

Others

If you are a freelancer starting out, you may be worried about needing a business license. In this article, we'll go over all the details and answer the commonly asked questions about if you need a business license.

Others

If you want to track your time, you’re probably wondering how to make a timesheet in Excel. We’ll give you two easy ways of building one, and another to win time.

Others

For freelancers, scope creep is detested… and inevitable. In this article, we show you not only how to avoid scope creep, but how to reverse it.

Others

Health insurance for freelancers isn’t always easy. These 8 legit ways to get insurance will make sure your health is protected without breaking the bank.

Others

Understanding client needs is one of the key aspects of any business, including freelance. Here are 5 tactics to ensure you identify and meet client needs.

Others

If you are wondering if you could use your home address for LLC, Bonsai will break it down for you. We'll go over all the pros and cons of using your home address for your LLC.

Others

If you are an architect looking for an invoicing software to manage all of your billing requests, try Bonsai. Our software is the go-to invoicing software to send billing requests for design work. Try a free trial today.

Others

If you are debating between starting a DBA or LLC, here's what you'll need to know in order to make the decision. We'll review the different pros and cons of each so you can select the best choice for your business.

Others

If you are planning on incorporating your business, tune into these 7 reasons why it's a good idea. In this article, we'll show you why you should really consider incorporating your business.

Others

What are the benefits of an EIN for a business owner just starting out? Why would they want one? In this article, we'll go over 8 reasons why it is a great idea to obtain an EIN for your business.

Others

If you are starting your business, do you need a business license? Well, in this article, we'll review all the things you need to know in order to be compliant with your business regulations.

Others

If you are considering to run your business as a sole proprietorship or as a formal corporation, read this article first. We'll go over the advantages and disadvantages of sole proprietorship.

Others

Are you making the plunge as a new freelancer? Here are our 6 top tips to help you get started.

Others

If you’re a freelance designer, you’re probably already familiar with the powerful and popular Sketch app. Find out what are our top 20 best Sketch Plugins to use.

Others

Account keeping is a key aspect of managing a freelance business. Use this guide to master how you maintain your accounts in Excel - explore 3 ways to do it!

Others

Design copyright is vital for freelance designers looking to create works of art for their freelance business. Get everything you need to know about protecting your work here.

Others

A collection of 100 freelance tips from top designers, developers, writers and photographers, to help you build and grow your freelance business.

Others

Learn how to be good at giving and receiving design feedback with this 10-step recipe. If everyone embraces it, feedback in design is a powerful catalyst.

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