Janet Attard

Business Start Up Checklist

• Choose a business based on your skills and interests

• Research the business idea

• Research competitors

• Determine if there are any patent or trademark restrictions

• Write a business plan *

• Write a marketing plan

• Choose a business name

• Verify your right to use you chosen name

• See if the business name is available as a domain name

• Register the business name and get a business certificate

• Register your business domain name even if you aren\'t ready to use it yet 

• Choose a location for your business or make space in your home to run it

• Check zoning laws

• File partnership or incorporation papers

• Get any required licenses and permits

• Determine if there are health or safety laws with which you must comply

• Register a trademark for your business name

• Register copyrights for business intellectual property 

• Apply for a patent or provisional patent for inventions

• Have a business phone line installed if you will be working from home

• Order phone, Internet, and any utility services needed for a business location that isn’t homebased

• Get appropriate business insurance for your business 

• Arrange for health insurance coverage if needed

• Talk to an accountant about your tax obligations & record keeping requirements

• Apply for a sales tax number if needed 

• Apply for an FEIN if needed (Federal Employer Identification Number)

• Inquire about workers compensation insurance and unemployment insurance if you will be hiring employees