Onboarding a new business
From idea to open for business, in order.
Every step here depends on the one before it. Skipping ahead is what costs people money later — a bank that won't open the account, a filing that has to be redone, a first tax year that's a mess to untangle.
01
Structure
Decide between sole proprietorship, LLC, or corporation based on your liability exposure, number of owners, and how you want to be taxed.
02
Registration
File formation documents with the South Carolina Secretary of State, reserve the name, and appoint a registered agent.
03
Federal ID
Obtain your EIN from the IRS. This is what the bank, payroll, and every future vendor will ask for.
04
Banking & payments
Open a business account, separate personal and business money from day one, and set up how you'll get paid.
05
Licenses & compliance
State and local licenses, sales tax registration where it applies, and the annual report calendar so nothing lapses.
06
Books & first filing
Bookkeeping set up correctly, estimated payments scheduled, and your first return handled by someone who already knows the file.