1. Choose Your Business Structure
Decide how you’ll legally organize your business:
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Sole Proprietorship – simplest form, but no liability protection.
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LLC – popular for flexibility and liability protection.
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Corporation (C-Corp or S-Corp) – good for raising capital, but more formal.
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Partnership – if starting with others.
Tip: Many small businesses start as LLCs for the blend of simplicity and protection.
Register Your Business Name
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Pick a unique business name.
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Check for trademark conflicts (via USPTO.gov).
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Register with your state (if forming an LLC or corporation).
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Consider buying the domain name early. More info.......
Apply for an EIN (Employer Identification Number)
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Get it from the IRS online – free.
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Needed for opening bank accounts, hiring, and taxes.
🏛 4. Register with State and Local Authorities
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File formation documents (like Articles of Organization for LLCs).
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Get necessary state and local licenses/permits depending on industry.
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Register for state taxes (sales tax, unemployment, etc.).
💰 5. Open a Business Bank Account
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Keep personal and business finances separate.
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Consider getting a business credit card to build credit.
📓 6. Create an Operating Agreement or Bylaws
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Required for LLCs and corporations.
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Outlines roles, responsibilities, profit sharing, etc.
📉 7. Set Up Accounting & Taxes
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Choose accounting software (QuickBooks, Wave, etc.).
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Consider hiring an accountant early on.
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Know your federal, state, and local tax obligations.
📣 8. Build Your Online Presence
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Website (even a basic one).
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Google Business profile.
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Social media if relevant to your audience.
🔒 9. Protect Your Business
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Consider business insurance (general liability, professional liability, etc.).
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Secure intellectual property (trademarks, copyrights, patents as needed).
🚀 10. Start Small and Validate
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Begin with a minimum viable product (MVP).
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Test the market and gather feedback.
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Pivot or scale based on real-world response.
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