Starting a business: your first-month checklist
The usual order of things. Pick your state below for its exact rules, deadlines and official links.
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Get your EIN
Free from the IRS, online in about 10 minutes. Banks, clients and payroll all ask for it. You never need to pay a service for it. How to get it free
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Open a business bank account
Keeps the company's money separate from yours, which is what protects your LLC. See options
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Register for sales tax if you sell taxable goods or services
Most states require a seller's permit before your first taxable sale.
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Get general liability insurance
Most clients, landlords and venues ask for a certificate before you start. See options
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Set up bookkeeping
Track every sale and expense from day one so taxes take hours, not weeks. See options
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Payroll and workers' comp before your first hire
Most states require workers' comp once you have employees, and payroll software handles the tax filings. See options
Pick your state
What insurance costs
| Coverage | Median per month |
|---|---|
| General liability | $45 |
| Business owner's policy (BOP) | $83 |
| Workers' compensation | $54 |
| Professional liability | $88 |
Source: Insureon (100,000+ customers), Feb 2026. Your price depends on your work, location and history.