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Steps
Steps
Starting a business takes research, smarts and self-confidence — and a measure of fearlessness. You’ll ask yourself: How can I start my own business with no money? What's the right equipment? Am I getting the best advice? Here are the essential steps on how to start a business, including creating a solid business plan, securing financing, structuring your company and more.
on ZenBusiness' website
Which is the easiest business to start? It depends on your expertise, time commitment and capital. Many small-business ideas carry low startup costs and can be run from home.
50 Best Small-Business Ideas
The 23 Most Profitable Businesses
Home Business Ideas: 40 Remote Jobs to Explore
44 Easy Online Business Ideas You Can Start Now
A strong business plan can help you prepare for every aspect of your business.
How to Write a Business Plan, Step by Step
The Best Business Plan Software
How to Write a Company Overview for a Business Plan
How to Write a Market Analysis for a Business Plan
The legal structure of your business can affect everything from your taxes to what you're liable for.
Business Structure: How to Choose the Right One
What Is an LLC? Pros and Cons of a Limited Liability Company
LLC vs. Sole Proprietorship: How to Choose
S Corporation: Lower Taxes but Limited Growth Potential
C Corporation: Higher Taxes, More Flexibility
Getting an employer identification number is necessary to file taxes, open bank accounts and perform other essential tasks.
How to Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN)
9 Benefits of Getting an EIN (Even If You Don’t Have To)
A separate bank account just for your business helps keep your books straight and is easy to set up.
Where to Open a Business Checking Account Online
Best Business Checking Accounts
Best Free Business Checking Accounts
Best Business Bank Accounts for LLCs
Best Business Bank Accounts for Freelancers, Self-Employed
If you have no money to start a business, you can apply for grants, loans and other sources of financing. See your options and what it takes to qualify for each.
How Do Business Loans Work?
How to Apply for a Business Loan
Small-Business Loans: Compare Financing and Apply
SBA Loans: What They Are and How to Qualify
The Best Small-Business Credit Cards
Startup Business Grants: Best Options, Alternative Funding Sources
A business credit card can keep your business and personal finances separate, and it can come in handy for purchasing supplies.
How to Get a Business Credit Card
Compare Card Offers for Dozens of Small Business Credit Cards
6 Major Differences Between Business and Personal Credit Cards
Best Business Credit Cards for Startups
A strong online presence is critical for many businesses.
How to Build an E-Commerce Website: The Ultimate Guide
8 Best E-Commerce Website Builders for Small Businesses
10 Best Website Builders for Online Stores
How to Make Money on Shopify
If your business takes credit and debit cards, you'll likely need a payment processor, a merchant account and card readers.
What Is a Merchant Account?
7 Best Credit Card Processing Companies 2022
12 Best Credit Card Readers for Small Business
You'll need some important tools to tally your profits, track your performance and run your business efficiently.
Best Accounting Software for Small Businesses
25 Best Small-Business Apps
Best Invoicing Software for Small Businesses
Know These 4 Business Financial Metrics to Track Performance
5 Tools to Help Your Remote-Work Business Click
You may need to hire employees to run and expand your business.
Ready to Hire Your First Employee? Prep With These 6 Steps
How Much Should I Pay My Employees? A Comprehensive Guide
How to Choose the Right Payroll Software for Your Business
What Is Workers’ Compensation Insurance?
You'll have some new tax responsibilities as a business owner, but you'll have some new tax breaks, too.
A Tax Guide for Small-Business Owners
Best Tax Software
15 Self-Employment Tax Deductions
How Estimated Quarterly Taxes Work
How to Find the Right Small-Business Tax Advisor for Your Business
It's important to protect your business and your personal assets, and business insurance exists to do just that.
Types of Business Insurance
How Much Does Business Insurance Cost?
Small-Business Insurance: What’s the Best Coverage for You?
General Liability Insurance: What It Is, What It Covers
Business Owner’s Policy (BOP): What Does It Cover?
on ZenBusiness' website
About the author: Tina Orem is NerdWallet's authority on taxes and small business. Her work has appeared in a variety of local and national outlets. Read more
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How to Start a Business in 13 Steps – NerdWallet
