While starting your own business is exciting, it seems like there are a million details to take care of before you can get started. As you scan down this checklist, you may see items that don't pertain to you. Businesses can differ in structure, size , and complexity. Use the following checklist as a guide to keep you on track for success.
Write your business plan and include details for marketing, financing, and management
Budget your start-up and operating costs
Decide what legal business structure best fits your home-based business (sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, limited liability company)
File the required forms for your business structure
Decide on your business name
Conduct a search for your business name to make sure no one else is already using it
Register your business name
Obtain the appropriate business licenses and permits
Check what zoning restrictions, if any, exist in your town or community
Register or reserve state or federal trademark
Register copyright
Apply for a patent if you are selling something you invented
Order a business line for your telephone number and fax or arrange for a second line on our home phone
Conduct a search on the Internet to see if your business name is available for a website
Once you have a website name, register it so that no one else may use that name
Create your website
Investigate what insurance you may need to obtain, such as property and liability, business, umbrella liability, business interruption, disability, health, life, and key man insurance for partners
If you plan to have employees in your company you will need to file for an EIN
If you are going to hire employees, contact the Department of Labor to see what laws relate to you
Find out about workers' compensation if you are going to have employees
Open a business account at your bank for checking and savings
Once you have registered a business name and set up your legal structure, order your stationery and business cards
Apply for a sales tax number if you will be selling a product from your home business
Have your accountant or lawyer give you the necessary information about tax filing and record keeping
Make a list of supplies and equipment you will need to start your business
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