Before your business can begin operating, it needs to be registered with state and local agencies. And before registering your business, you will have to choose a business name and obtain an employee identification number (EIN) from your state. While this process will register your business as a legal entity, there are other benefits as…
Starting a Business
18 Tech Startup Ideas for Entrepreneurs
Technology startup ideas cover a wide range of businesses, from software or physical tech sales to businesses that completely rely on technology, like independent live-stream reporting. All tech businesses can be profitable, with the most successful ones earning millions of dollars per year. Some have an edge with proprietary information, while others require more innovation…
Franchise vs Startup: Which Should You Go for?
Franchises and startups can both be considered a way of “running your own business,” though they differ substantially in terms of setup, cost structures, creativity, and direction. In this article, we’ll go over the differences between a franchise vs a startup, the pros and cons of committing to each, and how to decide which business…
What Is a Registered Agent? How & Why to Get One
A business’ registered agent (RA) is the official contact for receiving important documents—a summons, subpoena, or registration renewal. While every state requires a business to have a registered agent, regulations may differ. Several states allow the business to be its own RA, but others don’t. If you’d like to hire a company to serve as…
Types of Business Plans: Ultimate Guide for Business Owners
Starting or growing your small business requires careful planning. A business plan is a detailed document outlining the goals, strategies, operational plans, and risks associated with starting or running a business. Various types of business plans will be your roadmaps to securing funding, planning for growth, or making big decisions through your business’s lifespan. In…
7 Best Online Legal Services
An online legal service assists clients with legal tasks for both business and personal matters. These services typically cost a fraction of what a local attorney would charge. An online legal service helps with tasks such as business registration, legal documents, attorney advice, and intellectual property. Depending on your specific needs, certain legal services will…
Ultimate Guide to SWOT Analysis for Small Businesses
A strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) analysis can be used in multiple scenarios, from helping an aspiring business owner evaluate the feasibility of launching a new business idea to arming an existing business owner with the insight needed to make solid decisions around areas in which the business is doing well or not so…
What Is an LLC and How to Start One
A limited liability company (LLC) is a form of business that protects a business owner’s personal assets from legal claims against the business. Unlike with limited partnerships, protection extends to all members of the LLC, including those with managerial authority. If the election to tax the LLC as an S corporation (S-corp) is made, then…