Smart Business Checklists
Running a small business is exciting; but it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the details. That’s where we come in. Smart Business Checklists gives you simple, step-by-step guides to tackle everything from launching your business to managing finances, marketing, and growth. No guesswork, no missed steps; just actionable checklists to save you time and keep you on track. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling up, we’ve got your back. Check it off, and move forward with confidence!
Starting a Business
- Business idea validation
- Business plan creation
- Legal structure (LLC, sole proprietorship, etc.)
- Registering your business
- Licenses & permits
- Business Planning Checklist
- Clarify the business idea, mission, and vision
- Identify the target audience and problem solved
- Conduct market research and competitive analysis
- Write a business plan, covering goals, team, and financial projections
- Insurance and Risk Checklist
- Apply for relevant business insurance (general liability, property, workers’ compensation, etc.)
- File any required beneficial ownership reports with FinCEN, if applicable
Finances & Accounting
- Setting up business banking
- Bookkeeping & record-keeping
- Tax preparation & deductions
- Budgeting & cash flow management
- Invoicing & payment processing
- Finance and Accounting Checklist
- List and categorize all startup costs (one-time and recurring)
- Set up an accounting system (QuickBooks, Xero, Wave, or Excel)
- Track revenue, expenses, receipts, and tax write-offs
- Determine your six-month runway (operating costs)
- tax deduction checklist
Marketing & Sales
- Branding & logo design
- Website setup & SEO
- Social media marketing
- Email marketing
- Sales funnel & customer acquisition
Operations & Productivity
- Setting up business tools (CRM, project management)
- Hiring & onboarding employees
- Remote work & team collaboration
- Inventory management (if applicable)
- Vendor & supplier management
- Operational Checklist
- Draft simple Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for core tasks
- Implement basic task/project management tools
- Disaster preparedness checklists (natural disasters, economic downturns)
Customer Service & Retention
- Customer support best practices
- Feedback & review management
- Loyalty programs & retention strategies
- Handling complaints & refunds
Legal & Compliance
- Contracts & agreements (client, vendor, employee)
- Privacy policies & GDPR/CCPA compliance
- Intellectual property (trademarks, copyrights)
- Workplace safety & regulations
- Legal and Registration Checklist
- Decide on a business structure (LLC, sole proprietorship, corporation, etc.)
- Register the business name
- Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN)
- Register for federal, state, and local taxes
- Secure business licenses and permits required by your locality or industry
- Open a business bank account
Growth & Scaling
- Expanding product/service offerings
- Partnerships & collaborations
- Franchising or licensing (if applicable)
- Exit strategy (selling, succession planning)
- Launch and Feedback Checklist
- Set a realistic launch date
- Announce the business and seek feedback from your network or initial customers
- Iterate and improve your offer/processes post-launch
Technology & Cybersecurity
- Choosing business software
- Data backup & security
- Protecting against cyber threats
- Managing online presence
- Online Presence & Tools Checklist
- Secure a domain name and build a basic website or landing page
- Set up a business email account
- Choose payment processing systems (Square, Stripe, PayPal)
- Define your offer or product and make it easy for customers to order or contact
- local seo checklist for brick mortar biz
Personal & Professional Development
- Time management for entrepreneurs
- Networking & mentorship
- Avoiding burnout & self-care
Industry-Specific Checklists
- E-commerce
- Restaurants & food services
- Consulting & freelancing
- Real estate
- Health & wellness
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What kinds of checklists do you offer?
A: We provide actionable checklists for every stage of running a small business—from startup steps (licenses, branding) to growth strategies (marketing, hiring), finances, legal compliance, and more. Our guides are designed to save you time and prevent missed tasks.
Q: Are these checklists free?
A: Yes! All our core checklists are 100% free. We may offer premium templates or tools in the future, but our goal is to make essential resources accessible to every small business owner.
Q: How do I use these checklists effectively?
- Customize them: Add/remove steps to fit your business.
- Save or print: Keep them handy for reference.
- Track progress: Check off tasks as you complete them.
Q: Do you cover my industry?
A: Our checklists focus on universal business needs (finances, marketing, legal), but we also include industry-specific guides (e.g., e-commerce, restaurants). Need something niche? Contact us with requests!
Q: Can I suggest a checklist topic?
A: Absolutely! We’re always expanding our library. Contact us with your ideas.
Q: How often are checklists updated?
A: We review content quarterly to reflect changing laws, trends, and best practices. Subscribe to our newsletter for updates.
Q: Who creates your checklists?
A: Our team combines research from trusted business advisors, legal/financial experts, and real-world small business owners to ensure accuracy and practicality.
Q: Can I share these with my team?
A: Yes! Feel free to download, print, or share links with employees, partners, or mentors. We only ask that you credit Smart Business Checklists if republishing.