Starting a business involves making key financial decisions and completing a series of legal activities. This guide provides information to help you plan, prepare, and manage your business.
- Step 1:
Research and Plan Your Business
Use these tools and resources to help you prepare your business plan and become a successful business owner. - Step 2:
Get Business Assistance and Training
Take advantage of free training and counseling services, from preparing a business plan to getting financing, and help expanding and relocating a business. - Step 3:
Choose a Business Location
Get advice about choosing a customer-friendly location and complying with zoning laws. - Step 4:
Finance Your Business
Find government backed loans, venture capital and research grants to help you get started. - Step 5:
Determine the Legal Structure of Your Business
Decide whether you are going to form a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, corporation, non-profit or cooperative. - Step 6:
Register a Business Name ("Doing Business As")
Register your business name with your state government. - Step 7:
Get a Tax Identification Number
Learn which tax identification number you'll need to obtain from the IRS and your state revenue agency. - Step 8:
Register for State and Local Taxes
Register with your state to obtain a tax identification number, workers' compensation, unemployment and disability insurance. - Step 9:
Obtain Business Licenses and Permits
Get a list of federal, state and local licenses and permits required for your business. - Step 10:
Employer Responsibilities
Learn the legal steps you need to take to hire employees.
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