Rural Online Business
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EIN & LLC setup checklist.

A clear, step-by-step path to get your business legally set up. Work through it at your own pace — your progress is saved on this device.

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Pick up where you left off below.
  1. Step 01~15 minutes·Free

    Pick your business name

    Lock in a name that's available in your state and as a .com.

    • Search your Secretary of State business database to confirm the name isn't taken.
    • Check domain availability (e.g. yourbusiness.com).
    • Do a quick USPTO trademark search to avoid conflicts.
    • Pick something short, easy to spell, and easy to say on the phone.
  2. Step 02~10 minutes·Free (always)

    Apply for your EIN (Federal Tax ID)

    Your EIN is your business's social security number — needed for banking and taxes.

    • Go directly to IRS.gov — never pay a third party for an EIN.
    • Apply online Monday–Friday, 7am–10pm ET.
    • You'll get the EIN immediately at the end of the application.
    • Save the confirmation letter (CP 575) — banks will ask for it.
    Apply for EIN on IRS.gov
  3. Step 03~30 minutes·$50–$500 (state fee)

    Form your LLC with your state

    File Articles of Organization with your Secretary of State to create the LLC.

    • File online through your Secretary of State website.
    • Choose a registered agent (you can be your own in most states).
    • Pay the state filing fee — varies by state.
    • Approval usually takes 1–10 business days.
  4. Step 04~20 minutes·Free

    Create an operating agreement

    Even single-member LLCs should have one — banks often require it.

    • Outlines ownership, profit splits, and how the LLC is managed.
    • We provide a free template — just fill in the blanks.
    • Sign it and keep it with your business records (no need to file it).
  5. Step 05~45 minutes·Free at most banks

    Open a business bank account

    Keep personal and business money separate from day one.

    • Bring: EIN letter, LLC approval, operating agreement, photo ID.
    • Compare online banks (Mercury, Bluevine, Relay) vs local credit unions.
    • Ask about monthly fees, minimum balance, and ACH limits.
    • Order a debit card and link a payment processor (Stripe / Square).
  6. Step 06Varies·Varies by trade

    Get required licenses & permits

    Trade-specific licensing — food, contractor, transport, etc.

    • Check city and county requirements for a general business license.
    • Trade-specific: food handler, contractor, DOT, cosmetology, etc.
    • Home-based? Check zoning rules in your city.
  7. Step 07~30 minutes·Usually free

    Register for sales tax (if you sell goods)

    Required in most states if you sell physical products.

    • Apply for a Sales Tax Permit through your state Department of Revenue.
    • Get a Resale Certificate so you don't pay tax on wholesale purchases.
    • Set a calendar reminder for filing dates (monthly, quarterly, or annual).
  8. Step 08~1 hour·Free to start

    Set up payments & bookkeeping

    Be ready to take money and track it from day one.

    • Pick a processor: Stripe (online), Square (in person), or both.
    • Connect payments to your new business bank account.
    • Start a simple bookkeeping system — even a spreadsheet works.
    • Save every receipt; consider Wave or QuickBooks Self-Employed.

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