Newbie Question #2

[itsinthenumbers]

Is there an online checklist to ensure I have all the licences, etc. before I open for business. I know I need a tax ID and I have information from the state of Ohio. I just don't want to miss anything. Thanks in advance for your response.

[Office Goddess]

Check with your secretary of state's office. They most likely have an online list of state requirements. You can get IRS regs from www.irs.gov. Look for the small business section.

[PeppyM]

I had a free consultation with an attorney today, who is also a CPA. Although the consultation lasted only 30 minutes, we packed a lot of discussion into that time. He advised me as to what kind of business entity I should choose for my business (sole proprietor, LLC, etc.) and answered all of my questions. I will be paying him a retainer, in the future, so that I can turn to him for any questions that I might have. He said that they would also file my taxes for me (although, we did not discuss the cost.) I'm in Virginia and the Virginia State Corporation Commission's web site is extremely informative, if not a bit daunting. Their web site encourages new small business owners to call them and they will walk them through the process. I intend to do that tomorrow. I agree that you should contact the Ohio equivalent of a Corporation Commission.

[leedrozak]

Peppy and Numbers,

Don't forget to check with you local township too. Where I am at now I had to do nothing to have my business in my home however where I am moving to I need to get a special business permit. The process was painless but I did have to complete an application and attach information about my company and the impact to my neighborhood.

[PeppyM]

Peppy and Numbers,

Don't forget to check with you local township too. Where I am at now I had to do nothing to have my business in my home however where I am moving to I need to get a special business permit. The process was painless but I did have to complete an application and attach information about my company and the impact to my neighborhood.

Lee, thanks for this information. I would never have thought of drilling down to the township level.