This study uses data from a national survey of 673 business‐owning households to assess factors associated with intermingling business and family finances. Logit analysis indicates that the use of family resources in the business is more likely in sole proprietorships; when the business owes money to financial institutions; and when the business owner is older, more experienced, and without children in the household. Family use of business resources is more likely if the business is incorporated, is located in a rural area or small town, and borrows money.
Family‐owned home‐based businesses traditionally utilize a workforce of paid workers, contracting workers, and unpaid helpers. Each type of worker may be categorized as family, related, or unrelated. The research reported here shows that not all worker types increase business outputs. Family workers, family helpers, and unrelated workers contribute in positive ways to business outputs. In contrast, unpaid related helpers decrease net income, and contracting related workers increase the work hours of the business owner.
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