Business Formation Checklist

Business Name:

State of Formation:

Formation Date:

1. Choose Business Structure

Sole Proprietorship

Partnership

LLC (Limited Liability Company)

Corporation (C-Corp or S-Corp)

Consult with attorney or CPA about best structure for your situation

2. Choose & Register Business Name

Check name availability with state business registry

Search USPTO for trademark conflicts

Check domain name availability

Consider trademark registration

3. File Formation Documents

File Articles of Organization/Incorporation with Secretary of State

Pay state filing fee ($___________)

Designate registered agent

Receive Certificate of Formation/Incorporation

4. Get Federal Tax ID (EIN)

Apply for EIN online at IRS.gov (free)

EIN Number: _________________________________

5. Create Operating/Organizational Documents

Draft LLC Operating Agreement or Corporate Bylaws

Document ownership percentages and member/shareholder information

Define management structure and voting rights

Have all owners sign agreement

6. Open Business Bank Account

Bring EIN confirmation, formation documents, and ID to bank

Open business checking account

Get business debit/credit card if needed

Set up accounting/bookkeeping system

7. Register for State & Local Taxes

8. Obtain Business Licenses & Permits

General business license from city/county

Professional/occupational licenses (if required)

Health department permits (food service, etc.)

Building permits for physical location

Federal licenses (alcohol, firearms, etc. if applicable)

9. Get Business Insurance

General liability insurance

Professional liability insurance (E&O)

Workers' compensation (if you have employees)

Property insurance

Business vehicle insurance

10. Set Up Record Keeping

Create company record book

Store formation documents safely

Set up accounting software

Create system for tracking income/expenses

Set up payroll system if hiring employees

11. Ongoing Compliance

File annual report with state (due: __________)

Pay annual franchise taxes

Hold annual meetings (document in minutes)

Renew licenses and permits as needed

Legal Disclaimer: This checklist is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Business formation requirements vary by state, industry, and business type. Consult with an attorney and CPA for your specific situation.