New Business Startup Formation Checklist

Starting a new business is one-part passion and two-parts paperwork.
​
Entrepreneurs can quickly get overwhelmed by the vast federal, state, and local requirements in place to regulate the formation of new businesses. Furthermore, focusing on requisite steps can distract new business owners from asking astute questions and doing critical market research to hone their business ideas. 

However, starting a new business without a comprehensive plan in place to prioritize and organize requirements can result in substantial time delays, cash shortages, and even serious legal implications.
​
Working through a business startup checklist will ensure that all important steps are addressed in a logical order to stay ahead of the process. Additionally, it allows a new business to plan for future operations to increase its long-term chances for success.

Here is a checklist to help you get started (or evaluate) your business startup:

DOWNLOAD THE CHECKLIST

1. Verify Business Idea

1. Determine How to Fund It

1. Find Support
2. Pick a Name
3. Select a Business Structure
4. Appoint a Registered Agent
5. Write a Business Plan
6. Assign Responsibilities
7. Apply for an EIN (Employer Identification Number)
8. Set Up a Website
9. Open Social Media Accounts
10. Apply for a Sales Tax Permit
11. Open a Business Bank Account
12. Get a Merchant Account
13. Obtain Industry-Specific Licenses/Permits
14. Forecast Revenue and Expenses
15. Get Equipped
16. Write Your Pitch
17. Utilize Existing Networks
18. Line Up Suppliers and Providers
19. Purchase Business Insurance
    
20. Build Brand Awareness
    
21. Market the Business
    
22. Rent Retail Space (if Applicable)
    
23. Hire Employees
    
24. Learn About Employment Taxes
    
25. Implement an Accounting Solution
    
26. Implement Automation
    
27. Rent Office Space

​This list is not all inclusive. There are other items to consider on a start-up checklist. Patents, local regulations, market research and as some will say an exit strategy should be on the list.  Where you start and the order you follow will depend on your particular business. 

Are you interested in more details?

​Get the comprehensive checklist with more details about each to-do with resources and links.  The PDF whitepaper is available here:

​Download "The Ultimate New Business Formation Checklist"