Side Business Launch
Set up the foundation right so you don't unwind it later. US-focused.
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Decide
- Pick a name; check trademark database (USPTO TESS)
- Buy the .com and matching social handles same day
- Decide on entity: sole prop, LLC, S-corp
Register
- Form the LLC with the state ($50-$500 depending on state)
- Get a free EIN from IRS website (don't pay third parties)
- File any required local business license or DBA
- Register for state sales tax permit if selling taxable goods
Banking
- Open a separate business checking account
- Get a business credit card for clean bookkeeping
- Never commingle personal and business funds
Bookkeeping
- Set up bookkeeping software or simple spreadsheet
- Decide cash vs. accrual accounting
- Schedule monthly 'close' day to reconcile
Insurance & Legal
- Get general liability insurance if you serve clients
- Draft client contract template
- Privacy policy and terms for any website
Tax Setup
- Set up quarterly estimated tax payments
- Save 25-30% of net profit for taxes in a separate account
- Confirm whether you owe self-employment tax (15.3% above $400)
Launch
- Soft launch to 5-10 friendly customers for feedback
- Define what your first 10 paying customers look like
- Announce publicly only after the above are solid
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