Starting a New Business - 17 Point Checklist
Congratulations: You've made the decision to start a new business. Now you need to launch and manage your new business! There are a number of tasks that must be done before you actually open your doors, and other tasks that are ongoing. Here is a checklist of 17 essential must-dos to get your new business off to a good start.
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Get Started
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Name your business
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Register the name to protect your brand and name
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Pick your location: online, brick and mortar, multiple locations
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Apply for needed licenses and permits
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Open a business bank account
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Develop a marketing plan: website, social media, advertising, logos, business cards
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Choose software and tools to help manage your business: accounting, social media, email, data storage
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Choose an accountant or attorney
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Hire team: recruit and train employees, consultants or freelancers
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Protect your hard and digital assets: https://www.checkli.com/checklists/anthonycaliendo/digital-asset-protection-a-checklist-for-small-business-owners-1
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Federal Taxes
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Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) if applicable -
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Select a business structure: Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, Corporation, S Corporation, Limited Liability Company (LLC)
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Choose a tax year: Calendar year - 12 consecutive months beginning January 1 and ending December 31. Fiscal year - 12 consecutive months ending on the last day of any month except December.
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Have employees fill out Form I-9 (PDF) and Form W-4 Pay your business taxes
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Pay any required business taxes: Income Tax, Estimated Taxes, Self-Employment Tax, Employment Taxes, Excise Tax
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State Taxes
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Visit your state's website for information on doing business in the state, taxation, links for employers, etc
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Checkout more of my resources, tips and checklists for small business owners: http://www.thesalesassassin.com
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