How to Start a Vending Machine Business
Start a vending machine business in the U.S.: register, open a sales tax account, check local licenses, vet sellers under FTC rules and sign a host first.
How to Start a Small Business: 8 Steps
Most small businesses in the U.S. follow the same eight steps, in roughly this order. Each step links to our guide or to the official agency that handles it.
Pick an idea and check the market
Choose a business you can explain in one sentence, then look at who already sells it near you and what customers pay.
Estimate your startup costs
List every cost before opening day: equipment, licenses, insurance, first inventory and a cash cushion.
Write a business plan
Even a short plan forces the key decisions: what you sell, to whom, at what price, and how you will pay for it.
Choose a business structure
Sole proprietorship, LLC or corporation. The choice affects your personal liability, taxes and paperwork.
Register with your state
An LLC or corporation is formed by filing with your state, usually the Secretary of State, and paying a filing fee.
Get an EIN from the IRS
An Employer Identification Number is free from the IRS. You need one to hire, and most banks ask for one.
Get licenses and permits
Requirements depend on your industry, city and county. Food, child care and trades usually need the most.
Open a business bank account and get insured
Keep business money separate from personal money, and ask about the insurance your state, landlord or clients require.
How to Start a Business: Guides by Industry
How to Start a Photography Business
How to start a photography business in the U.S.: pick a niche, set prices, get a free EIN, use contracts and copyright, and plan your first 90 days.
How to Start a Lawn Care Business
How to start a lawn care business: choose services, check pesticide licensing, register and get a free EIN, buy the right equipment, and build a dense route.
How to Start a Landscaping Business
How to start a landscaping business in the U.S.: pick services, check contractor and pesticide licenses, register, insure, price jobs and plan for the seasons.
How to Start a Dropshipping Business
How to start a dropshipping business in the U.S.: pick products, vet suppliers, register, handle sales tax and meet the FTC rule on shipping times and refunds.
How to Start a Coffee Shop: Costs and First Steps
How to start a coffee shop: choose a format and location, plan the main cost categories, get health plan review and permits, register, and hire your staff.
How to Start a Clothing Brand From Zero
How to start a clothing brand from zero: pick a niche and production model, check your name with the USPTO, meet FTC label rules and set up sales tax.
How to Start a Cleaning Business
How to start a cleaning business in the U.S.: choose residential or commercial, register, check licenses, insure, price jobs and win clients, with sources.