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Information on Your Business Startup Process

You have decided to start a new business but you don't know where to begin. Here is all the information you need to get started. This section takes you through all the applications and filings and organizational decisions you will need to make so you can start your business.
How Do I Research to Make Sure I Can Use My Business Name?
You have found a business name you want to use. Now what? The next thing you need to do is check to make sure no one else is using that name. Some places to search are listed in this article.
All About Employer ID Number (EIN)
Every business that has employees must have an employer ID number (EIN), but even if you have no employees, you will probably need to have an EIN as you start your business. How and where to apply for an EIN, how to change or cancel your EIN, and other important facts about EINs are included in this article.
Does My New Business Need an Employer ID Number (EIN)?
Here is a checklist to help you determine if your new business needs an employer ID number (EIN).
How Do I Apply for a Federal Employment ID Number (EIN)?
As you start your business, one of your first tasks will be to apply for an employer ID number (EIN). You can apply in any of these four ways: online, by phone, by fax, or by mail. Details on each application form are provided here.
Frequently Asked Questions About Forming a Limtied Liability Company (LLC)
Here are some frequently asked questions about forming a limited liability company.
Learn How to Form an LLC
If you are interested in learning how to form an llc, this article will provide you with details about this business form and the process of forming an llc.
What is the Difference Between a Tax ID, Employer ID, and ITIN?
Difference between a tax ID number, EIN, and ITIN
Registered Name? Trade Name? Fictitious Name? What is the Difference?
Discusses the difference between a registered name, trade name, and fictitious name for a business, and how a business name can have a trademark.
How Do I Determine my Company's Fiscal Year?
How to determine the date for your company's fiscal year end.
First Steps to Starting a Business
New business owners are often overwhelmed with the tasks and steps for business start-up. But there
How Do I Create a Marketing Plan for My Business Start-up?
How to create a marketing plan for a business startup
Selecting, Registering, and Trademarking Your Business Name
Selecting a business name is an important element of your business start-up. Your name can mean everything - like Amazon - and it can enhance the success of your business. The process of selecting a business name involves legal elements, including registering your name and possibly trademarking your name if it is unique. Here are the steps in the process.
How do I Select a Business Name?
How to select a business name
How Do I Get a Business License? What Local Licenses Does My Business Need?
Lists the types of local licenses and permits a business might need.
How Do I Register a Business Name?
How to register a business name, including
Starting a Business as an Independent Contractor
Whether you are a writer, an engineer, a consultant, or any number of other independent working positions, you are an independent contractor. This means you are self-employed. You should take the steps to set up a business entity. Here's why you should do that and the tasks you need to start your business.
Why Should I Create an Independent Contracting Business?
Working for yourself means you are self-employed, as a contractor or independent contractor. Here is why you should set up a business entity.
Do I Need a D/B/A (Fictitious Name) for a Limited Liability Company?
A D/B/A (or fictitious name statement) is required for any business that operates under a name other than the official name of the business.
Legal Aspects of Selecting and Registering a Business Name
Choosing a business name involves more than just selecting something meaningful. There are legal aspects to selecting and registering a business name.
Creating a Unique Selling Proposition for Your Business Startup
What makes your small business unique and special? You will need to create a description of your business to set it apart from competitors. Here are the factors to consider.
Filing a DBA or Fictitious Name Statement
Has someone told you that you must file a Fictitious Name or DBA? This section will give you information on the Fictitious Name and DBA filing process.
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