File articles of incorporation or articles of organization with your state

 File articles of incorporation or articles of organization with your state

To formally create your business within your state, you must fill out and submit a form that’s often called articles of incorporation (if your business is a corporation) or articles of organization (if your business is an LLC). This legal document outlines the basic components of your business, such as your business name, registered agent and business purpose. 

You can complete the articles of incorporation or articles of organization form yourself by visiting your state’s secretary of state website. Most states require you to fill out their pre-prepared form. However, some states, like Iowa, require you to make your own. Paper submissions may incur additional processing fees and take longer, so most business owners use the online system. 

You should be prepared to pay a filing fee when submitting your documents. This fee ranges from $40 to over $500, depending on the state and your business type. 

If you don’t feel confident in your ability to file the articles of incorporation or articles of organization, you can use a business formation company, such as Rocket Lawyer or ZenBusiness. While some of these companies charge an added service fee on top of your state’s filing fees, you can find several to help you form your business for free using our best LLC services list.

 Get an employer identification number (EIN)

An employer identification number (EIN) is a tax identification number that works like a Social Security number for your business. The IRS issues it for tax-administration purposes and it’s often required for hiring employees, opening a business bank account and applying for required business licenses. 

The fastest way for a small business to get an EIN is through the IRS website. The IRS operates this service weekdays from 7 a.M. To 10 p.M. ET. When approved, you’ll immediately get a confirmation page, which includes your new EIN. Print this document and keep it with your other important business documents.

Obtain business licenses and permits (if required)

Depending on what your business does, you may need additional licenses or permits from your city, county or state government to operate your business. For example, businesses involved in the food service or healthcare industries may be required to get licenses or permits. You may also need a sales tax license if you sell products.

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