Do you want to start a business in Texas but you aren’t sure where to start? Below are the 10 steps (in sequential order) I took to start my business.
Also, if you are considering starting a business in Tarrant County check out my friends at Knowledge For Success (KFS). Their 10-week course titled “New Quest” provides 42 hours of in-depth training. I took this class in 2008 and it gave me the foundation, and confidence, I needed to become a business owner.
FAQ: Should I incorporate?
While incorporating isn’t required, it does help minimize your personal risk and has other benefits. I recommend meeting with an attorney, and also an accountant, to determine which legal entity is best for you and your unique business.
10 Steps to Start a Business
| Step | Action | Time |
| 1 |
File for an LLC, preferably through an attorney. I used The Dodge Legal Group, PC. |
2 – 7 days |
| 2 |
Find out which of your services are taxable by calling the Texas State Comptroller’s office at 800-252-5555. TIP: Take good notes, get the name and email of the person you talked with, then email him/her a summary of your conversation, and ask them for a confirmation…in writing. |
< 1 hr |
| 3 | Apply for an EIN with the IRS a. File online at www.irs.gov/businesses b. Or you can call 800-829-4933 to file by phone |
< 1 hr |
| 4 | Get your NAICS code; look up online here: http://www.naics.com/ | < 1/2 hr |
| 5 | Apply for a Sales Tax Permit: http://www.window.state.tx.us/taxpermit/ | < 1 hr |
| 6 |
File for a DBA (Assumed Name) with the Tarrant County Clerk office. Tip: You can download the form online, but you must pay in person and sign the form in person. |
< 1 hr |
| 7 | Set up a business bank account. | < 1 hr |
| 8 | Set up an accounting system, preferably with the advice of an accountant. I use Quickbooks Pro software. | < 2 hrs |
| 9 | Schedule dates on your calendar to pay your quarterly state and federal taxes. | < 1/2 hr |
| 10 | Conduct business, have fun, and make a lot of money! | ∞ |
