What to do next
Register the entity and name
Incorporate or register the business, and check name availability — including against existing trademarks, since a business-name registration gives you no trademark rights.
Set up tax and payroll accounts
Obtain the required tax identifiers, register for sales tax once you meet the applicable threshold, and open payroll accounts before your first hire rather than after.
Check licences and get your documents in order
Many activities require municipal, state, or provincial licences. At the same time, put in place the basics: a shareholder agreement if there are co-owners, and written contracts for customers and contractors.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to register a business name?
Usually, if you operate under a name other than your own or your corporation's legal name. It is separate from trademark protection.
When do I register for sales tax?
Generally once revenue crosses a defined threshold, though voluntary registration may be advantageous. Thresholds and rules vary by jurisdiction.
What if I hire my first employee?
Payroll registration, withholding obligations, and employment-standards compliance all begin. Misclassifying someone as a contractor is a common and costly error.
Do I need a lawyer to register?
Basic filings can be done alone. Legal help matters most for co-owner agreements, contracts, and licensing in regulated industries.
This is general information, not legal advice. Laws vary by location and every situation is different — speak with a qualified lawyer about your specific circumstances.