START UP BUSINESS CHECKLIST

Evaluate your strengths, list your weaknesses and set goals

Obtain training, education, licensing or accreditation as needed

Apply for needed trademarks, patents, copyrights,

Establish a relationship with an attorney* that will help you to form your new entity

Write a budget*

Write business plan *

Research your market

Define your niche

Identify your most likely customer

Determine how to handle distribution

Develop a marketing plan

Choose your location, sign a lease if necessary

Apply for fictitious business name*

Obtain a resale license, if needed*

Obtain tax identification number from the Internal Revenue Service*

Apply for city business license or home occupation permit, if needed*

Reserve web site domain name, create a website with email boxes*

Establish and organized system of records retention*

Create your QuickBooks accounting and other financial records*

Establish an indexed library of legal documents*

Open a business bank account*, order checks and deposit tickets from a low cost vendor

Open a merchant account* if you plan to accept credit card payments

Select a business insurance broker, buy appropriate insurance

Order business cards and stationary*

 

*SFA Office is experienced in this area and will help you with this step