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Work through the stages in order — Start → Finance → Legal → Market → Sell. Be sure to tap the ^ to learn more and write down details about the step. Tap Save to Priorities to add it to your My Priorities/Steps list.
Protect your business and ensure compliance
Decide how to legally structure your business. Common options: Sole Proprietor, Partnership, LLC, S-Corp, and C-Corp. Each affects your taxes, personal liability, and paperwork differently.
File your formation documents with the state (Articles of Organization for an LLC, Articles of Incorporation for a Corp). Prepare an operating agreement or bylaws to define ownership and rules.
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is required for most businesses to open a bank account, hire employees, and file taxes. Be sure to go to the official IRS page — search 'IRS EIN' and use the first result (irs.gov). It is free.
If you sell taxable goods or services, register for a sales tax (seller's) permit with your state. Be sure to go to the official state page — search your state's Department of Revenue and use the first result (.gov site).
Most businesses need federal, state, and/or local licenses to operate legally. Check requirements at every level of government.
If you operate under a name different from your legal entity name, file a 'Doing Business As' (DBA) name with your state or county.
A trademark protects your business name, logo, or slogan. Search existing marks and file through the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
A patent protects new inventions or processes. File through the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
A copyright protects original works of authorship — writing, art, software, music, and more. Register through the U.S. Copyright Office.
Put key agreements in writing: client contracts, vendor agreements, independent contractor agreements, and non-disclosure agreements (NDAs).
Set clear payment terms and a lawful collections process. Know your rights on late payments and how to follow up without violating debt-collection laws.
If you hire employees or contractors, know wage, hour, tax-withholding, and worker-classification rules. Have employee and contractor agreements reviewed by a professional.
Protect against liability with the right coverage: general liability, professional liability (E&O), workers' comp, and cyber as relevant to your business.
Most states require a registered agent and annual or biennial reports to keep your entity in good standing. Missing these can risk losing your liability protection.
For entity formation, contracts, IP, or disputes, use a service like LegalZoom for routine needs or a local attorney for complex matters.