BUSINESS STARTUP CHECKLIST (Don’t let this intimidate you. We can help.) You may download a PDF version on the Downloads page 1. Develop a business plan. 2. Determine business entity type (LLC, corporation, partnership (general or limited), sole proprietorship, etc.) 3. Search State Corporation Commission (your state may refer to it as Secretary of State’s office) records to see if the proposed business name is available. * 4. Search the U.S. and state trademark/service mark databases to see if there are any conflicts. 5. File Articles of Incorporation, Articles of Organization or Partnership Agreement as appropriate with the SCC. * 6. Determine if the business is required to obtain a Federal Employer Identification Number. (A sole proprietorship with no employees or Keogh plan is not required to have one. Most others are.) If so, file form SS-4 – Application for Employer Identification Number. 7. If business is incorporated, determine if it is advantageous to elect for S corporation status. If so, file form 2553 – Election by a Small Business Corporation. 8. Determine if the business will be liable for State Unemployment Tax. If so, register with the State Employment Commission. (In Virginia complete Form VEC-FC-27.) 9. Determine if the business is subject to State Income Tax. If so, register with the State Department of Taxation. (In Virginia, complete Form R-1.) 10. Obtain an Occupancy Permit if required by local ordinance. 11. Obtain a business license if required by local jurisdiction. 12. Obtain legal counsel or enroll in a prepaid legal services plan. 13. Obtain accounting services or setup QuickBooks® accounting software. 14. Obtain insurance coverage appropriate for your type of business. 15. Register your trademark or service mark with the USPTO or the SCC. ** 16. Develop a marketing plan. 17. Develop a coordinated corporate graphics plan including signage, letterhead, business cards, shipping labels, and other forms depending on the nature of your business. 18. Develop a Web site. ** * Not required if business form is a sole proprietorship. However if business is conducted under a name other than your own, a Fictitious Name Certificate must be filed at the office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court in each county or city where business is to be conducted. ** Optional but recommended. ©2004-2008 Quigg Lawrence LLC Small Business Solutions. Based on publications by the US Government and the Commonwealth of Virginia. Requirements may vary in other states and, of course, are subject to change. Need help? Call us 804-307-4400 or e-mail quigg@qlawrence.com. You may download a copy of this form on the Downloads page.