Found's $125 Business Checking Bonus: A Simple Deal for Solo Entrepreneurs

If you're a freelancer, solo entrepreneur, or run a small side hustle, you know how banking, bookkeeping, and taxes can eat up your precious time. Found is a fintech platform that aims to bundle all that into one app, and right now they're sweetening the deal with a straightforward cash bonus. It's not a huge windfall, but for a relatively simple task, $125 is a nice little boost for your business coffers. Let's break down exactly what you need to do and whether this account makes sense for your operation.

The Nuts and Bolts of Earning Your $125

This bonus follows a classic 'deposit and hold' structure, which is refreshingly simple compared to some offers with complex transaction requirements.

Here's your two-month timeline: First, open the account. You then have a 30-day window to get a total of $5,000 into it. This can be a single deposit or a series of transfers—just hit that total within the first month. Once you do, the clock starts on a 60-day maintenance period. You need to keep at least $5,000 in the account for the next 30 consecutive days. After that second month concludes, Found will deposit your $125 bonus into the account within 30 days.

More Than Just a Bonus: What Found Actually Does

The cash is the hook, but the real question is whether you'd want this account afterward. Found isn't a traditional bank; it's a banking and financial management platform designed for very small businesses, especially sole proprietors and single-member LLCs.

Think of it as a checking account with built-in, lightweight accounting software. It automatically categorizes transactions, lets you snap pictures of receipts, track mileage, and even generate invoices. A standout feature for many is the automatic tax set-aside, where it squirrels away a percentage of your income into a sub-account so you're not scrambling come tax season.

It's important to note the account is fee-free for the basics: no monthly maintenance, no minimum balance, and no overdraft fees. You get a Mastercard business debit card. However, services like wire transfers, instant transfers to external accounts, and out-of-network ATM use do carry fees. Also, some of the more advanced features, like unlimited expense rules or direct tax filing, require a 'Found Plus' subscription at $19.99 per month or $149.99 per year.

Practical Advice and Points to Ponder

This offer is best for business owners who were already considering a tool like Found. A $125 bonus is a 2.5% return on a $5,000 deposit held for 60 days, which is decent for a liquid cash holding. But don't open it just for the bonus if the platform doesn't fit your needs.

A few things to watch out for: First, the $5,000 must be new money deposited after account opening. You can't just transfer $5,000 from an existing Found account. Second, read the fine print on the 'Found Plus' upsell. The base account is free, but you'll see prompts for the paid tier. Decide if the free features are enough for you.

Finally, plan your timing. The 60-day clock is strict. Make sure you have the $5,000 available to park for two months without it impacting your cash flow. If you need to pull it out early, you'll forfeit the bonus.

Bottom Line

• The $125 bonus is straightforward: deposit $5k, hold for 60 days total.
• Found is a hybrid checking/accounting app ideal for solo entrepreneurs and freelancers.
• The core account has no monthly fees, but advanced features require a paid subscription.
• Only consider this if the platform's tools are useful to you beyond the sign-up incentive.

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