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Business Start Up Checklist
The business start-up checklist below is meant to remind you of the tasks you may have to perform when starting your business. The checklist includes items that apply to many different types of startups. Many of the tasks need to be done for legal reasons even if you are starting a business with little or no money.
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
Open a bank account in the business name
Set up an accounting system or accounting software for the business
Setup your funding and create a budget for starting the business
Have a logo created
Order business cards, envelopes and stationery for the business. Alternately, print them yourself, if you have the capability.
Order business checks* with the name imprinted
Order inventory
Purchase needed equipment and supplies
Order signage
Order fixtures
Find a website hosting company* or cloudbased storefront* provider and set up your site
Set up a business email address (preferably using the business domain name)
Set up social media pages for the business
Start building a permission-based customer email list* for newsletters and promotions
Prepare brochures, fliers and other handouts. Print or order a small quantity to promote your business opening
Send out publicity releases
Decide where and how to advertise your business
Contact friends, family and acquaintances and let them know you’ve started you business
Plan and implement low-cost business promotion tactics to market your business
Other:
This creates a private checklist in your account.