Business Startup Checklist

Starting a new business is a grand entry into the world of commerce and an exciting time for everyone involved. Unfortunately, along with the thrill of creating something new, there is hard work and a fair number of responsibilities.

A few start-up steps that might help you if you're starting your business venture:

• Plan well! Whatever your services are, you need to confident that you have the right staff, the appropriate product range, and availability, and you need to have established through research what would be an excellent time to start. Also, you need to have thought carefully about the location of your business. Every new venture should have a thoroughly researched, carefully organized, and professionally-presented business plan. Also, the operating procedures, competition market study, business goals, and the creation of funds need to be discussed and arranged before the business starts. If your company plans to get a loan for establishing the business, careful research and planning are necessary for seeking a traditional loan or funds from venture capitalists.
• Form a corporation or an LLC. If you'd rather not be personally liable for any debts incurred by your business, you may benefit from forming a corporation or LLC. For other kinds of business (sole proprietorship, partnerships) the owners' possessions (house, car, etc.) are at risk if they default on loans or can't pay creditors at any point. However, an LLC or corporation safeguards the owners' assets so they can't be seized to pay off outstanding bills. An LLC also helps you gain credibility with potential customers, suppliers, and partners. You can also enjoy certain tax benefits with your LLC or corporation, and online services can guide you through the legalities of setting either of these up.
• Secure a federal tax identification number or the state tax identification number. The Internal Revenue Service will you a federal identification number or Employer Identification Number (EIN). All taxation matters will be dealt with through this EIN. From your state taxation department, inquire about the necessity of getting a state tax identification number for your type of business.
• Hire an accountant and an attorney. Before starting up your business, select a good lawyer and an accountant who can help you through thick and thin. Investment in these areas now will undoubtedly pay dividends later. They can guide you through problems, advise you on cost-cutting and time-saving loopholes.
• Get a business bank accounts. Your personal finances mustn't become entangled with those of the business. One of the ways of making sure this doesn't happen is by establishing two different accounts. A specialized business bank account is an ideal solution for financial transactions involving your business. The information regarding the industry's type, starting date, and the owners' names and addresses are required to open the business account, which will then offer you certain specialized services tailor-made to business rather than personal financial activity.
• Raise funds. Look for a loan that suits your kind of business. There are so many different loan programs by different financial institutions, and information about these is readily available online.
• Get the required licenses and permits to legalize your business. Check with your local governing bodies the requirements for your business in terms of paperwork and permits. Failing to do this properly can get you into an enormous amount of trouble because not having the correct permits is illegal. It's a common mistake many new businesses make, and in the end, they pay dearly for it.
• Get insurance. After a detailed discussion with your insurance agent, try to gather all necessary pre-requisites and documents for obtaining insurance that will safeguard your business against many kinds of unforeseen accidents or damage.
• Check about other insurance requirements. If your business has employees, it may require certain different types of insurance. Inquire about unemployment insurance and workers' compensation, etc.
• Enjoy the process. If you put some planning into your business, you're more likely to be able to relax and enjoy the fruits of your labor later.