Business Startup Checklist

After you’ve evaluated your business idea, startup costs, and researched the market, you’ll be ready to take on the next steps to starting your business. Track your progress as you go with this handy checklist.

	Step	Date Finished
	Prepare a business plan
	Incorporate your business or form an LLC Address necessary post-incorporation formalities
	Obtain your federal tax identification number (also called employer identification number or EIN)
	Obtain a state tax identification number, if applicable
	Obtain the necessary business licenses and permits
	Select an accountant
	Select an attorney
	Open a business bank account and obtain a business credit card
	Set up your business accounting/bookkeeping
	Establish business credit
	Obtain business insurance
	Ensure you comply with government requirements (e.g., unemployment insurance, worker’s compensation, OSHA, payroll tax requirements, self-employment taxes, etc.)
	Determine your business location and take necessary steps Home-based: check zoning requirements Other location: Lease office or retail space and obtain the necessary furniture, equipment, and supplies
	Create any necessary contracts, service agreements and invoices so you can easily bill customers, track payments, and keep records.
	Obtain business financing
	Create business cards, letterhead, envelopes, etc.
	Secure a domain name
	Create a website
	Create a marketing plan