Even if it's bullet points on a napkin, a business plan lays the groundwork for success.

It's costly, but if you want protection for your product a patent makes sense.

It might not be wise to postpone incorporating if you have personal assets to protect.

There are pluses and minuses to doing so--make sure you're clear about the consequences.

Even if you can't save on the hourly fee, being prepared will cut down on the hours.

Sacrificing good employees now could mean costly training for new employees later.

They can be a bargain, but take care that you don't treat them as employees.

It can cut your overhead, but make certain your business cultures are compatible.

Beware: You might spend more than you'll ever recoup from the resulting sales.

Unless you have other income streams, yes, you should.

You need to be wherever your ideal targets are.

It's a useful alternative to use with suppliers--but remember that the IRS will want its cut.

Don't panic. Your money's safe, and your banker still makes loans.

If consumers want your product but can't get the financing they need, you suffer, too. There are still sources for quick and easy customer financing.

In a plastic world, you're hurting yourself if you accept only cash and checks.

Though a bank loan's unlikely, there are other avenues available.

Make them sign a contract, or insist they pay a retainer upfront.

Handle it professionally to avoid hurt feelings and potential litigation.

Weigh the circumstances carefully before embarking on a venture that could cause a family rift.

Need a lower interest rate? Present your bank with a competing offer.

Check out these wise ways to benefit from today's low interest rates--without hurting tomorrow.

It's a tricky situation, so be sure your colleague knows what he or she is getting into if you choose this route.

These hints will help you through the cash-flow crunch when sales are slow.

Leasing may be the solution to grow your business quickly.

For many customers, price is secondary to quality, reliability and service.

There are alternatives to writing a big check at tax time.

Renters should find some good deals this year. Buyers ought to consider future growth.

It might be your best option, but it will cost you.

Scared the new minimum wage laws will affect your business? Here's what to consider.

Securing a margin loan can mean quick cash for startup, but it doesn't come without risk.

Think an employee is stealing from you? Follow these 3 simple steps.

Try direct public offerings as a way to raise capital.

Business plan contests offer more than money

What to do when your significant other won't support your entrepreneurial dreams

When it comes to offering health insurance to your employees, don't promise more than you can deliver.

Need invention protection? An attorney can help.

What to do when faced with the daunting proposition of fighting a large competitor in court

An angel group could be your startup's savior.

Want your business to grow, but think your partner is being too conservative? Here's how to get through the conflict.

Don't have the cash for big-ticket items? Look to leasing instead.

Worried you're getting stiffed at the bank? See what the numbers say.

You can ask your family to fork over funds, but make it worth their while.

Feel like you're signing your life away?

Prove your trustworthiness to vendors.

Borrowing against your 401(k)

Does your bank go above and beyond?

When the status quo just won't do anymore, these 10 ideas will help you take your homebased business to a new level.