The 8-Step Starter Checklist Every New Business Needs Before Launch
Starting a business is exciting. It is also easy to miss critical setup steps that protect you legally, help you get paid, and make you look credible from day one. Use this simple, practical checklist to build a clean foundation before you chase sales.
1) Choose a name you can actually use
A clever name is not enough. Confirm:
Exact match availability in your state’s business registry
Matching domain availability
Social handles you can secure
Easy spelling and pronunciation
Tip: Creative spellings look unique, but you will repeat and correct them forever. Pick something people can type without help.
2) Register your business with the state
File your entity so you exist on paper. This is where you choose LLC, corporation, or sole proprietorship. You can file yourself or use a registered agent service to handle forms and receive official mail. Requirements and fees vary by state.
3) Get your EIN from the IRS
An Employer Identification Number is your business’s tax ID. You will use it for banking, payroll, and tax filings. Think of it as your company’s Social Security number.
4) Decide if you need a sales tax ID
Sales tax rules depend on what you sell and where you sell it.
Physical products usually require collection in your state
Some digital goods and services are taxable in certain states
If you do not need to collect, do not register yet. Once you have a sales tax ID you must file returns, even when the amount is zero
When in doubt, ask a CPA or your state revenue office.
5) Open a business bank account
Keep business and personal money separate. Bring:
Articles of organization or incorporation
EIN confirmation letter
Operating agreement or corporate bylaws
Government ID
Any ownership documents required by your bank
Pro move: Keep these in a “business binder” or a single digital folder so you can hand everything to the banker in one shot.
6) Set up basic accounting
Pick software that matches your stage and budget:
QuickBooks or FreshBooks for plug-and-play invoicing and reports
Wave for a free starter option
A clean Google Sheet if you are detail oriented
Connect your bank feed, categorize monthly, and you will save time and fees at tax season. Most accountants prefer QuickBooks, which makes handoff easier as you grow.
7) Purchase your domain
Your domain is your online address. Secure it as soon as you settle on a name. Even if your site is simple at first, owning the domain protects your brand.
8) Create a professional email
Use your domain for email so you look established. Options include:
Zoho Mail free plan for up to five users
Google Workspace or Microsoft 365 for deeper tools and storage
“[email protected]” or “[email protected]” beats a free personal email every time.
Common pitfalls to avoid
Skipping the name vetting and discovering later you cannot register it
Mixing personal and business funds in one account
Registering for sales tax when you are not required
Waiting to set up accounting until tax time
Launching a site on a temporary domain and losing consistency
Quick start checklist you can copy
Name checked in state registry, domain, and social
Entity filed and registered agent selected
EIN received
Sales tax decision made and registered if required
Bank account opened
Accounting software connected to bank
Domain purchased
Professional email set up
Make setup easier
We built a free, guided checklist that tracks your progress and includes short how-to videos for each step. Create your account at app.launchingpros.com and work through the foundation at your own pace.
