🧱 How to Set Up Your Business (Without Losing Your Mind)

LLC, EIN, Bank Account... and what actually matters.

Starting a business should be exciting—but it usually feels like a DMV line mixed with tax anxiety. The system isn’t designed for ease; it’s designed to confuse the hell out of anyone not fluent in paperwork.

But if you break it down into a few smart, intentional steps? You’ll be operational, legit, and ready to make money without stressing over what you forgot.

Let’s set this thing up the right way.

1. Choose Your Structure (But Don’t Overthink It)

Most small businesses are fine starting as an LLC—it's flexible, offers liability protection, and keeps your personal assets safe. Other options:

• Sole Proprietor = quick & dirty (not recommended long-term)

• S-Corp = better tax savings later, once you're pulling consistent profit

✅ Tool Rec: ZenBusiness or Incfile will walk you through it and file everything for less than a dinner date.

2. Get an EIN (It’s Free & Fast)

An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is like a Social Security number for your biz. You’ll need it for opening a bank account, paying employees (if applicable), and doing anything official.

✅ Apply directly with the IRS here (free) — don’t pay someone to do this unless you just don’t want to deal.

3. Open a Business Bank Account (Don’t Skip This)

Mixing personal and business expenses is the #1 rookie mistake. A business account:

• Helps you stay organized

• Protects your liability shield

• Saves time (and pain) at tax time

✅ Best Options:

• Relay – Built for small businesses, no-fee, multiple sub-accounts

• Bluevine – Offers interest and financing if you grow

• Novo – Clean UI, integrates well with Stripe/Square

4. Get a Domain + Email (So You Look Legit)

That Gmail address works until someone doesn’t take you seriously. Buy a domain and set up a branded email.

✅ Tool Rec:

• Namecheap or Google Domains for the domain

• Google Workspace for professional email

5. Pick One System to Organize Everything

Before you start selling or invoicing, pick a place to track:

• Income

• Expenses

• Customers

• Tasks

Don't go crazy—just keep it consistent.

✅ Tool Rec:

• Notion or Trello for tasks

• Wave or FreshBooks for simple accounting

• ClickUp if you want everything in one dashboard

🧠 Final Tip: Keep It Simple

Don't get buried in perfection. You don’t need a 14-tab spreadsheet or a 42-point checklist.

You need:

• Legal setup

• Bank account

• One place to track money

• Something to sell

That’s enough to start. You’ll figure out the rest as you grow.

Coming soon: The “Oh Sht” Checklist – What You Actually Need in Year 1 of Business.*

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