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Step 1
Determine the legal structure of the business, such as sole proprietorship, general partnership or corporation. File the necessary paperwork. If creating a sole proprietorship or general partnership, file an Assumed Name Certificate at the county clerk's office.
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Step 2
Check the Small Business Association Business License List to determine if your state requires you to be licensed. If a license is not required, you will need to obtain a Federal Tax Employer Identification Number (EIN). Apply for an EIN through the Internal Revenue Service. If a license is required, a tax ID number will be created with the license.
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Step 3
Determine federal, state and local business taxes. Income tax information can be found through the Internal Revenue Service; employment taxes through the Social Security Office and state workforce commission; and business taxes through your state's Comptroller of Public Accounts.
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Step 4
Determine business employer requirements. These include state and federal laws regarding workplace safety, wages, equal employment opportunity, and workmen's compensation insurance.
