Things You'll Need:
- Ideas
- Fill out forms
- At least $70 to start
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Step 1
First, you need an idea of what kind of business you want. Research your ideas and see which one is the best choice. What are your dreams? What are your talents? If you love to cook, you could be a caterer. If you like to clean homes, you could have your own cleaning business.
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Step 2
Second, think of your business name. Your county clerk office can look up the name to make sure no one else is using it. For example on http://www.oakgov.com/clerkrod/ (Michigan) you can click on vital records and then click on the search business name online tab. Type in your business name and if it is not taken the search will produce no results. Go to your county website or call your local clerk office.
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Step 3
Third, if you want to have your own website go to godaddy.com or another website that sells URL's (your own website address). Type in your business name to make sure it is available. If it is available you should buy it. When you do develop your website you will have your web address already. The cost usually runs $9 to $10 dollars per year. Godaddy.com can help you with setting up your website when you get ready to sell your products or services.
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Step 4
Forth, you need to register your business with your county clerk. Go again to your county website: http://www.oakgov.com/clerkrod/ (Michigan) and click on vital records. Then you click on assumed names/co-partnerships tab and print out the form. I attached the link to a copy of this form so you can see what it looks like. Fill out the form and get it notarized ( cost $5 to $10). Then you take it to your county to register your business. The cost is usually $10 dollars.
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Step 5
Fifth, take your registered business document to the bank and open up a bank account in the business name. Deposit you first $50 dollars into it. You may need to research different banks for free business accounts with no minimum balance such as Fifth Third or Chase bank.
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Step 6
Now, start small by getting the word out. Let people know what you are selling. Sell to friends and family first. Start with what you can afford and then move your way up. Try not to get into a lot of debt. You will also need to get some business cards. Staples and Kinkos will make your cards for you or you can make them yourself at: www.homebusinesscenter.com/business_cards.html. Patience is the key and don't give up!
Comments
rob2apl said
on 5/4/2009 I like how this article "gets back to the basics". It can be easy to get caught up in the "what if's" and think starting a business is so complicated, that you never get around to starting one. I had additional information to add to your Step 4, which lists state-by-state resources for people starting a business - pick your state, then click the link to get the resources. http://homebusinesscenter.com/start_a_business_state_resources.html Also, if someone is looking for business ideas, or creative ways to start a business, I follow the "Home Business Ideas" blog: http://www.home-business-opportunity-start.com/