Launch roadmap Three phases from idea to paying customers. Tick steps as you go; your ticks are kept on this device.
This is general guidance, not legal or tax advice. Rules vary by location, so check with your local government, the IRS (or your country's tax office) and your bank.
Sign in to save your worksheets to My stuff.
1. Register your business Pick a business structure. Many people start as a sole proprietor (just you, simplest) or an LLC (separates personal and business debts). Rules differ by state and country. Check your name is free: search your state's business registry and do a quick web and social media search. Register the name or business with your state or local government. Many sole proprietors file a 'DBA' (doing business as). Get a tax ID. In the US, an EIN is free from the IRS website (irs.gov). Never pay a third-party site for it. Ask your city or county which licenses or permits your type of business needs. 2. Open a business bank account Keep business money separate from personal money. It makes taxes and records much easier. Gather what banks usually ask for: photo ID, your EIN or tax ID, and registration papers (for an LLC). Compare 2–3 banks or credit unions for monthly fees, minimum balances and free transactions. Open the account at the branch or the bank's official website. Never share bank logins with anyone, including AI. Set up a simple record: a spreadsheet or free bookkeeping app with money in, money out and receipts. 3. Launch to your first customers Describe your ideal first customer in one sentence: who they are and what problem you solve. Tell 10 people you know what you offer and ask who they know who might need it. Set up free basics: a Google Business Profile, one social media page, and a simple way to pay you. Make a launch offer, like a first-week discount or a free add-on, with a clear end date. After each job, ask for feedback and a review. Use it to improve and to show new customers. 