ATLANTA
Small Business Checklist |
THE BASICS
Create a business Plan
A comprehensive business plan is imperative for building your new business in Atlanta. Draft a plan on your own or can find a local business advisor for more direct guidance.
|
Register your business name
Make a naming decision early in your preparation process -- company branding will need to match throughout your marketing materials.
|
FUNDING
Explore funding options
You can use small business loans or bank credit to supplement personal capital and get your business off the ground. The Atlanta SBA offers funding alternatives available to new Atlanta businesses.
|
LEGALITIES
Get an EIN
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is necessary for incorporating your business in Atlanta and for your business credit card application.
|
Determine your legal structure
Decide which form of ownership is best for you: sole proprietorship, partnership, Limited Liability Company (LLC), corporation, S corporation, nonprofit or cooperative.
|
BANKING
Open a business bank account
Institute a business bank account and credit line that is independent from your personal accounts for business costs. Banks like Affinity Bank can set you up.
|
ACCOUNTING & TAXES
Set up an accounting system
You can find and hire an Atlanta CPA like Delerme or purchase accounting software to generate invoicing, payroll, and more.
|
Register for state and local taxes
Register with the Georgia Department of Revenue to obtain your tax ID number and receive employee insurance for your business.
|
LICENSE & INSURANCE
Business License and Permits
|
Small Business Insurance |
License and zoning permits differ by area, depending if you're home-based or working out of commercial space. Check Atlanta requirements using the resources below.
|
Your new Atlanta business should be covered. Morris & Templeton in Atlanta can suggest the plans for your company.
|
MARKETING
Get out there with a great website
Your marketing begins with a website for your business. With Weebly, you can create a website on your own in just a few steps. Generate new customers, build your brand and sell your products or services directly from your new site. Best of all, you can start for free!
|