Complete Business SetupChecklist

Choose your business structure (LLC, S-Corp, Sole Proprietorship)

Consult with an attorney or use LegalZoom, ZenBusiness, or Incfile

Register your business name with your state

File with Secretary of State or similar agency

Get your Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN)

Free from IRS.gov - takes 5 minutes online

Apply for necessary business licenses and permits

Check local, state, and federal requirements

Get business insurance (general liability, professional liability)

Protect yourself and your business assets

Set up operating agreement or bylaws

Define ownership, management, and operating procedures

Open a business checking account

Keep business and personal finances separate

Get a business credit card

Build business credit and track expenses easily

Set up accounting software (QuickBooks, Wave, FreshBooks)

Track income, expenses, and generate reports

Create a business budget and financial projections

Plan for expenses and revenue for the first year

Set up payment processing (Stripe, Square, PayPal)

Accept credit cards and online payments

Establish bookkeeping system and schedule

Weekly or monthly reconciliation routine

Hire an accountant or tax professional

Essential for tax planning and compliance

Design your logo and brand colors

Use Canva, Fiverr, or hire a designer

Create brand guidelines document

Document fonts, colors, logo usage, and tone of voice

Register your domain name

Get a .com if possible (GoDaddy, Namecheap, Google Domains)

Set up professional email ([email protected])

Use Google Workspace or Microsoft 365

Design business cards

Order from Vistaprint, Moo, or create in Canva

Create branded templates (letterhead, invoices, presentations)

Check out BluWavs templates to save time!

Build your website or online store

Use Shopify, WordPress, Wix, or hire a developer

Set up Google Business Profile

Free listing that appears in Google Search and Maps

Create social media profiles (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn)

Claim your business name on all major platforms

Set up email marketing platform (Mailchimp, ConvertKit)

Start building your email list from day one

Install Google Analytics and tracking pixels

Track website visitors and marketing performance

Create content calendar for social media and blog

Plan 30 days of content in advance

Set up business phone number

Use Google Voice, Grasshopper, or RingCentral

Create Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

Document key processes and workflows

Set up project management tool (Asana, Trello, Monday)

Organize tasks and track progress

Choose file storage and backup system (Google Drive, Dropbox)

Ensure data is secure and accessible

Set up CRM system (HubSpot, Salesforce, Pipedrive)

Track leads, customers, and sales pipeline

Create contracts and agreements templates

Client agreements, NDAs, service contracts

Establish business hours and response time policies

Set clear expectations with customers

Determine if you need employees or contractors

Understand legal differences and requirements

Set up payroll system (Gusto, ADP, Paychex)

Automate payroll and tax withholding

Create employee handbook

Document policies, benefits, and expectations

Set up time tracking system

Use Toggl, Harvest, or built-in project management tools

Register for workers' compensation insurance

Required in most states if you have employees

Create job descriptions and hiring process

Define roles and standardize recruiting

Define your target customer and ideal client profile

Be specific about who you serve

Create your unique value proposition

What makes you different from competitors?

Develop your pricing strategy

Research competitors and calculate costs

Create a marketing plan for the first 90 days

Set goals and define tactics

Set up sales funnel and lead capture

Website forms, landing pages, lead magnets

Prepare sales pitch and presentation materials

Practice your elevator pitch

Create referral and loyalty programs

Incentivize repeat business and word-of-mouth