Launch your business, one step at a time

The full guide

Every step, in plain English

Open any step for the detail, the state-specific filing office, and what it should cost before you pay anyone.

1. 01Pick a name you can keep+10 ptsPick the name and check nobody in your state is already using it.

   Search your state business registry before you print cards, buy a domain or sign a lease. If the exact name is taken, a slight change is far cheaper now than a rebrand in year two.

   Pick your state above and this step fills in your filing office and fee.

   Reserve the domain and the social handles the same day you choose the name.

   Mark this step done
2. 02Choose your business structure+15 ptsLLC, S-corp or sole proprietor changes what you file and what you pay.
3. 03Register with your state+20 ptsFile your formation paperwork and pay the state fee.
4. 04Get your EIN (it is free)+15 ptsThe IRS gives you an Employer Identification Number at no cost.
5. 05Open one business bank account+10 ptsOne account, one card, nothing personal running through it.
6. 06Start bookkeeping and sales tax+15 ptsSet up bookkeeping in month one and know whether you collect sales tax.
7. 07Decide if an S-corp election pays+15 ptsA useful tax move later, if the profit is there to justify it.
8. 08Set up payroll before the first hire+10 ptsRegistrations first, first paycheck second.
9. 09Put the four tax dates on the calendar+10 ptsOwners pay tax as they earn, not in April.