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Business Registration Checklist

1. Choose Your Business Structure

  • Decide on a legal structure:
  • Sole Proprietorship
  • Partnership
  • LLC (Limited Liability Company)
  • Corporation (S-Corp or C-Corp)
  • Nonprofit
  • Consider liability, taxes, and scalability (consult an accountant/attorney if unsure).

2. Pick a Business Name

  • Check name availability:
  • Search your state’s business registry (e.g., [state].gov or Secretary of State website).
  • Search the USPTO Trademark Database (if planning to trademark).
  • Secure a domain name (e.g., GoDaddy, Namecheap) if building a website.

3. Register Your Business

  • File formation documents:
  • LLC/Corporation: Articles of Organization (LLC) or Incorporation (Corp) with your state.
  • Sole Prop/Partnership: May only need a DBA (“Doing Business As”) if using a trade name.
  • Pay filing fees (varies by state; typically $50–$500).

4. Obtain an EIN (Employer Identification Number)

  • Apply for a free EIN from the IRS website (required for hiring employees or opening a business bank account).
  • Sole proprietors without employees can use their SSN, but an EIN adds privacy.

5. Register for State/Local Taxes

  • Sales tax permit: If selling products (register with your state’s Department of Revenue).
  • Employer taxes: If hiring staff (state unemployment, workers’ comp).
  • Local business licenses: Check city/county requirements (e.g., home occupation permits).

6. Set Up Financial Accounts

  • Open a business bank account (separate from personal accounts).
  • Consider a business credit card to build credit.
  • Set up accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, FreshBooks).

7. Fulfill Industry-Specific Requirements

  • Professional licenses: Required for fields like healthcare, real estate, or cosmetology.
  • Health department permits: If handling food (e.g., restaurants, food trucks).
  • Zoning compliance: Verify home-based or commercial space meets local laws.

8. Protect Your Business

  • Trademark your name/logo (optional but recommended for brand protection).
  • Get business insurance: General liability, professional liability, or property insurance.

9. Stay Compliant

  • Annual filings: LLCs/corporations may need yearly reports (check state requirements).
  • Tax deadlines: Mark calendar for estimated taxes (if self-employed) and payroll taxes.

Bonus Tips

  • Use free resources: The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) guides you by state.
  • Hire help if needed: A business attorney or CPA can save time on complex filings.
  • Keep records organized: Store registration documents, EIN, and permits digitally/physically.
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