Incorporating is just one step in starting a new business. There are other federal,
state, and practical considerations as well. The following is a list of things to
do or think about once you have formed a new corporation:
Consider registering a DBA if you want to do business under a name other than the
official corporate name
Establish a corporate banking account
Contact the state tax board for information about state taxes and obtaining a state
tax number
Check with the state department of consumer affairs to obtain any required business
licenses or permits
Contact the IRS for information on filing your federal tax schedules
Find out about workers' compensation if you will have employees
Protect your trade name - contact LegalZoom for information on federal trademarks
and copyright
Check zoning laws
Obtain city and/or county business licenses or permits
Get adequate business insurance or a business rider to a homeowner's policy
Gather tax information such as record-keeping requirements, guidelines for withholding
taxes (if you will have employees), information on hiring independent contractors,
facts on estimating taxes, forms of organization, etc.
Print business cards and stationery
Acquire an email address
Set up your website
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers additional information and resources
on starting a new business. You can visit them on the internet at www.sba.gov, or you can contact
your local branch office by phone.
