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Start a business: guides, tools and next steps

Everything you need to go from idea to open for business. Follow the roadmap below, dig into a topic, or jump straight to forming your LLC.
New business owner smiling as steps to start a business are being done

Your roadmap to starting a business

Twelve steps, in the order most new owners take them. Each one links to our full set of guides on that topic.
1

Find a business idea

Start from your skills, interests and the problems you see around you. Then pressure-test the idea before you spend money.
2

Research your market

Size up demand, competitors and pricing so you know who you’re selling to and why they’d choose you.
3

Write a business plan

Put your offer, costs and goals on paper. A plan keeps you focused, and lenders and grant programs often ask for one.
4

Choose a business structure

Your structure decides your personal liability, how you’re taxed and how much paperwork you file each year.
5

Register your business

Make it official with your state. For most small businesses, that means forming an LLC.
6

Get an EIN

An Employer Identification Number lets you open a business bank account, hire and file taxes. It’s free from the IRS.
7

Get licenses and permits

Requirements depend on your industry, city and state. Check them before you open your doors.
8

Understand your taxes

Know which federal, state and sales taxes apply to you, and set money aside for estimated payments.
9

Set up accounting and banking

Keep business and personal money separate from day one, and pick a simple way to track income and expenses.
10

Protect your business

The right insurance covers you against lawsuits, accidents and property damage.
11

Hire your first employees

Learn the paperwork, payroll and policies you need in place before your first hire.
12

Equip your business

Websites, logos, invoicing and other tools that help you look professional and run things day to day.

Choose your business structure

The four most common options, side by side. Most first-time owners start with an LLC.
Sole proprietorshipLLCS corpC corp
Personal liability protectionNoYesYes, through the underlying LLC or corporationYes
How it’s taxedProfits go on your personal returnPass-through by default; can elect S corp tax statusPass-through; owner-employees take a salaryCorporate tax, then tax again on dividends
SetupNo state filing; a DBA if you use another nameArticles of organization filed with your stateForm an LLC or corporation, then file IRS Form 2553Articles of incorporation, bylaws and a board
Best forTesting an idea solo with low riskMost small businesses that want protection and simple taxesProfitable businesses paying their owners a salaryStartups planning to raise outside investment
Sole prop vs. LLC →Form your LLC →Start an S corp →Start a C corp →

Fund your business

Grants don’t have to be paid back. Find federal, state and private programs, including our own small business grant.
Explore grants
Grants for start-ups
Women-owned business grants
Veteran-owned business grants
Black-owned business grants

Start a business in your state

Filing fees, licenses, permits, DBAs and grants are set at the state level. Pick your state for the local details.
California
Colorado
Florida
New York
Pennsylvania
Texas
Washington State
North Carolina

FAQ

How do I start a business?

Pick an idea, research your market, choose a structure, register with your state, get an EIN and any licenses you need, then set up banking and accounting. Our step-by-step guide walks through each stage.

Do I need an LLC to start a business?

No. You can operate as a sole proprietor without registering with your state. An LLC adds personal liability protection and can make banking and taxes simpler, which is why many owners choose one.

How much does it cost to start a business?

It depends on the business. Registration costs are usually small: LLC state filing fees run from about $35 to $500, an EIN is free, and license costs vary by location and industry.

How long does it take to start a business?

Forming an LLC can take anywhere from a day to several weeks, depending on your state and how you file. Licenses and permits can add time.

Can I start a business while working full time?

Usually, yes. Check your employment contract for non-compete or outside-work clauses, and keep your business separate from your employer’s time and equipment.

What’s the cheapest way to start a business?

A sole proprietorship has no state formation fee. An LLC costs more up front but keeps your personal assets separate from business debts.

What is Tailor Brands?

Tailor Brands is an online platform that helps you start, manage and grow your business. Our all-in-one dashboard is easy to use and allows new founders to get their business up and running without having to worry about all the paperwork. We have all the tools needed to help you build a successful business, including business coaching, community support and AI guidance.

How does Tailor Brands help me start a business?

We form your LLC or corporation and take care of the filings that come with it, like your EIN, registered agent, annual reports and business licenses. Once you’re up and running, you can handle bookkeeping, invoicing, payments, taxes, your website and your branding from one dashboard, with Navi, our AI assistant, to guide your next steps.

How much does Tailor Brands cost?

You can form your LLC on our free Lite plan and pay only your state’s filing fee, which goes straight to the state. Paid plans add services like expedited filing, annual compliance and a registered agent. You’ll see each plan’s price for your state before you check out.