Business Formation · 10 min read
How to Get an EIN: A Complete Guide for Your Business
Learn how to get an EIN from the IRS, who needs one, what information you need, how to apply online, and what to do after receiving your EIN.
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Clear, practical guides for setting up a business and staying organized as it grows. Requirements vary by location and business type; confirm your specific obligations with the appropriate agency or advisor.
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Business Compliance
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Explore guides →LLC GuidesUnderstand LLC formation, agreements, records, and ongoing responsibilities.
Explore guides →Corporation GuidesExplore corporation formation, governance, records, and reporting.
Explore guides →Business FormationPlan, register, and set up a business with fewer unanswered questions.
Explore guides →State ComplianceFind the state and local requirements that may apply to your business.
Explore guides →Business DeadlinesTrack periodic reports, renewals, taxes, and other recurring dates.
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24 guides in the library
LLC Guides · 9 min read
How to Form an LLC: A Step-by-Step Guide
Learn how to form an LLC step by step, including choosing a name, filing formation documents, selecting a registered agent, getting an EIN, and staying compliant.
Read guideBusiness Formation · 9 min read
How to Start a Business: A Step-by-Step Guide for First-Time Entrepreneurs
Learn how to start a business step by step, from choosing a business structure and registering your company to getting an EIN, licenses, insurance, and managing ongoing compliance.
Read guideBusiness Deadlines · 13 min read
Business Compliance Calendar: What to Track and When
Learn what to include in a business compliance calendar, including taxes, annual reports, licenses, permits, renewals, and other important business deadlines.
Read guideBusiness Compliance · 12 min read
Business Tax Registration: What You Need to Register For
Learn what business tax registration is, which federal and state tax registrations your business may need, and how to stay compliant with ongoing tax requirements.
Read guideBusiness Compliance · 12 min read
Certificate of Good Standing: What It Is and How to Get One
Learn what a certificate of good standing is, when your business needs one, how to get it, what it costs, and how annual reports and compliance affect good standing.
Read guideLLC Guides · 11 min read
DBA vs. LLC: What’s the Difference and Which Do You Need?
DBA vs. LLC explained. Learn the difference between a DBA and an LLC, what each does, when you need one, and whether you can have both for your business.
Read guideBusiness Compliance · 11 min read
Do I Need a Business License? What Business Owners Need to Know
Do you need a business license? Learn when businesses need licenses or permits, how requirements vary by location, and how to determine what your business needs.
Read guideBusiness Compliance · 12 min read
Do I Need a Seller's Permit? What Business Owners Need to Know
Do you need a seller's permit? Learn when businesses need a seller's permit, who needs one, how requirements vary by state, and how to stay compliant.
Read guideBusiness Compliance · 14 min read
Federal Compliance Requirements: What Businesses Need to Know
Learn the federal compliance requirements businesses may need to manage, including taxes, EINs, employment requirements, recordkeeping, licenses, permits, and federal regulations.
Read guideState Compliance · 15 min read
Foreign Qualification: What It Is and When Your Business Needs It
Learn what foreign qualification is, when an LLC or corporation needs to register in another state, how the process works, costs, requirements, and ongoing compliance.
Read guideBusiness Compliance · 12 min read
How to Get a Business License: A Step-by-Step Guide
Learn how to get a business license, what information you need, where to apply, how much it may cost, and what to do after your license is approved.
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