Starting a New Business - 17 Point Checklist

Name your business

Register the name to protect your brand and name 

Write a business plan - see https://www.checkli.com/checklists/marvinrussell/how-to-write-a-business-plan-a-free-checklist-and-table-of-contents-template-1

Pick your location: online, brick and mortar, multiple locations 

Apply for needed licenses and permits 

Open a business bank account

Develop a marketing plan: website, social media, advertising, logos, business cards

Choose software and tools to help manage your business: accounting, social media, email, data storage

Choose an accountant or attorney

Hire team: recruit and train employees, consultants or freelancers 

Protect your hard and digital assets: https://www.checkli.com/checklists/anthonycaliendo/digital-asset-protection-a-checklist-for-small-business-owners-1

Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) if applicable - 

Select a business structure: Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, Corporation, S Corporation, Limited Liability Company (LLC)

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.

Have employees fill out Form I-9 (PDF) and Form W-4 Pay your business taxes

Pay any required business taxes: Income Tax, Estimated Taxes, Self-Employment Tax, Employment Taxes, Excise Tax 

Visit your state's website for information on doing business in the state, taxation, links for employers, etc