General Business and Finance Blog

tartup Steps to Home Business Success” guide.

DECIDE WHAT PART OF THE HOUSE TO USE

Select an area away from family activity. The perfect space is a separate room (or perhaps the garage), but any area will do, if it can hold all the business supplies and equipment, and also provide enough work space for desks, tables, or counters.

DETERMINE HOW MUCH TIME YOU CAN SPEND ON THE BUSINESS

Many people start a home business on a part-time basis while raising children or working outside the home. Others start full-time when family and finances allow. However you begin your “Realistics startup steps to home business success”. Figure out how may hours per week you can devote to the business, make a weekly chart of your activities, examine it, and determine where the business fits. Don’t assume you have time and find out later you don’t.

DECIDE ON THE TYPE OF BUSINESS

Make a list of things you like to do, your work and volunteer experience, and items you own that can be used in a business. List possible businesses to start, eliminate any business that isn’t appealing or doesn’t fill a need to people.
For ideas on different types of businesses consult business professionals and expertise, to find out profitable and“Realistics startup steps home business success” that you can start up in your locality

CHOOSE A LEGAL FORM

A sole proprietorship is owned by one individual. it is the oldest form of business, the easiest to start, 
and the least complicated to dissolve. Here are some of the advantages of this business form:

1. You own all the profits
2. Your business is easy and cheap to organize. You don’t need any government approval, although you may be required to carry a city, state or county license. Your only other obligation is to
notify the Internal revenue Service (IRS) for the purposes of
sales tax.
3. You’re the boss 
4. Greater personal incentive and satisfaction. Since you have your investment to lose if your business is not successful, you should be more willing to put time, thought, and energy into the business. And when your“Realistice startup steps home business success” is successful, you enjoy maximum sense of accomplishment since you know its success was dependent
upon your decisions about your management ability alone.

DETERMINE WHERE THE MONEY WILL COME FROM

There are three ways to finance your “Realistics startup steps to home business success” start-up costs: use your own money, obtain a loan, or find investors. If possible, it is better to start small, use your savings, and not worry about repaying a debt. Also keep in mind that since you are a home-based business enterprenuer, chances of qualifying for a loan or finding investors are slim until the success of your “Realistics startup steps to home business success” idea is proven.

GATHER INFORMATION

Spend a few weeks researching home-based businesses. A library or bookstore can provide numerous books on business basics, and on the specific type of business that interest you. 

PICK A BUSINESS NAME AND REGISTER IT

for your “Realistics startup steps to home business success” if the business you choose is different from your name, file an assumed name certificate with your country. You will be notified if another business already has that name, so you can select a new one. Do this before investing in expensive stationery and brochures. It costs only a few dollars to file, and it protects the business name from being used by someone else in the county.

WRITE A BUSINESS PLAN

A good business plan clarifies your ideas and establishes a plan of action. A good business plan should include a description of what you are selling or the services that you are providing, your background and qualifications, who the prospective customers are and where they can be found, what is needed to build the business, how you plan to promote, and how much money is need for start-up costs.

GET AN IDENTIFYING NUMBER

If you are the sole proprietor of the business and have no employees, you may either use your Social Security number or an Employee Identification Number (EIN) as the business number on official forms. If you have employees, or the business is set up as a partnership or corporation, you must obtain an EIN. To do
this, complete IRS Form SS-4 (Application for Employer identification Number) and file it with the nearest IRS Center.

OBTAIN A SALES TAX PERMIT

If the product or service you sell is taxable, you need a state sales tax permit. Call the local tax agency, explain the type of business you have and what you sell, and ask if you need to collect sales tax. If you do, they will send you the necessary information and forms to complete. You also use this tax number when your purchase items for resale.

OBTAIN LICENSES & PERMITS

for your “Realistics stratup steps to business success” i t’s very important not to overlook any necessary license or permit. For example, some cities and counties require a general business license, and most have special laws regarding the regulations and guides to setting up home businesses.

Call to find out what is need for your particular business. In addition, Chamber of Commerce provide information on city, state and country licenses and permits.

SELECT BUSINESS CARDS, STATIONERY, BROCHURES

Spend time on the color, design and paper for these items. They make a definite impression-good or bad- on the people who receive them. If you are not certain what is most suitable and effective, consult a graphics designer or a creative printer who will help you.

OPEN A BUSINESS CHECKING ACCOUNT

Call several banks to find out what services they offer, and what minimum balance, if any, must be maintained to avoid paying a service charge. Also ask about credit card if you plan to offer this convenience to your customers. Bank fees can be significant, so shop around for the best deal. if your personal checking account is with a credit union, see if it can also provide a separate business account. when you open your account, you may need to show the assumed name certificate and business license.

Finally,for your “Realistics startup steps to home business success” investigate obtaining a credit card in the business’s name. If this is not possible, set aside a personal credit card to use for business expenses.

OUTFIT THE BUSINESS

Make a list of everything needed to start the business, but before you buy anything, look around the house for things you already own that are usable. When you are ready to start purchasing, check the classified ads
and garage sales. Both are good, inexpensive sources for office furniture, typewriters, computers, answering machines, etc. But only what is absolutely necessary for start-up, and wait until the business is off the ground to get the extras.

Have you ever dreamt of owning a successful home business? People all over the country are looking for more control over their lives by starting a home business. Home business success is becoming more and more recognized as times go by.

Success stories abound of people who have started home based businesses that have succeeded beyond their wildest dreams. Home business success is more achievable and ideal because it saves the start up and the overhead costs associated with running a commercial premise.

Home business success is within your grasp if you can comply with these 21 easy steps;

Get a physical location within your house to host your business. It can be a separate room, the garage, the attic or anywhere that can hold your business equipment and enough for you to work comfortably in.

Home business success requires time. How much time are you willing to devote to your business to ensure it succeeds? You need to make a weekly schedule of all your activities at home, outside the home and decide where and how to place your business.

What do you like to do? What need can this fill for your future clients? Home business success stems from natural talents that fulfill needs and are nurtured into reality and later into riches. We can help you with ideas at the end of this article.

Go solo. The legal form of this is sole proprietorship. This is the easiest way to start because you are the boss so the profits are all yours, the work is cheaper to organize, you enjoy some tax savings although you need to notify the IRS for sales tax reasons. You will ensure home business success because you will have to prove to yourself that you can succeed, hence you will be more driven to do so.

You can get more information on this from the U.S. Small Business Association (SBA) publication MP25 about other business forms available. You can also seek further clarification by consulting an attorney.

Start small, that is, start with your own money. This is because you and your idea are still new and unproven so you may not qualify for a loan or getting trusted investors.

Info, info info. Home business success is only possible with extensive research on your type of business. Visit your local library or book store and research information on the business that interests you.

Location, location, location. Find how the location of your home is zoned and what restrictions apply. Also reread your lease. Home business success here will depend on what your neighbors perceive so don’t upset them.

First things first. Before you begin anything decide on a business name and have it registered. This will keep your business name unique to you only.

See your business on paper first. Nothing ensures home business success like a well written business plan.  This plan covers all areas of the business. A good place to start would be SBA publication #M925, The Business Plan for Home-based Business.

You need a number to identify you always. If you are alone you can use your Social Security number or Employee Identification Number (EIN) as the business number on official forms. However, when you grow and get employees or you change into a corporation, you must apply for an EIN. The IRS centre nearest you can supply you with Form SS-4 (Application for Employer Identification Number) for filling and later filing.

If you are planning to sell something, you need to find out whether you need to include sales tax in the costing. Call your local tax agency to explain the procedure on acquiring a sales tax permit.

All cities and counties have their own regulations on obtaining the necessary license or permit to operate your kind of business. Consult City Hall and the Chamber of Commerce for this very important information.

How do you want people to see you? Good, of course. A graphic designer or a creative printer can make you look good on your business stationery, like cards, brochures and other business stationery. You can only ensure home business success if your first impressions last.

Separate your business money by shopping around for a checking account with good and flexible services. A place to start is at your local bank. Also find out about credit card services so that you can make buying from you easy for your customers. If the business cannot have its own credit card then you need to set aside a personal credit card for the business only. You can track your income and expenses this way to ensure home business success. Convenient buying procedures for your customers will accelerate your journey to home business success.

Records, records, records. Home business success will not materialize unless you keep meticulous records. You can start manually with efficient records for bookkeeping to track income and expenses, travel and mileage, correspondences, invoices, suppliers, clients etc. You will only reach home business success to the level that you keep your work records. Learn important information on record keeping from IRS publication # 583 Information for business tax payers.

The big bad wolf. Familiarize yourself with the entire IRS requirement for operating your business. You can actually save some money when using your home for business purposes by consulting IRS publication #587 Business Use of the Home. Other important forms are ;

Schedule SE (compensation of Social Security Self Employment Tax)

Schedule 104 ES (estimated Tax for Individuals)

You may need to file these when the time comes. Keep the IRS happy and your own home business success is assured.

Start with the basics. List all the things you need to start the business and then shop for inexpensive places to get them e.g. garage sales, classified ads etc. Beware of overspending here.

Are you reachable at all times? You can use your own personal phone but the best is to get a separate phone line for the business. The idea is to track business call expenses. Have an answering machine working when you are away. If your prospective customers can reach you at all times, they will assure your home business success, because you can respond to queries faster and stay ahead of competition.

Get a post office box to make your business look more official. Find out the rates especially bulk rates if you are doing bulk mail deliveries.  For packages, United Parcel Service (UPS) is cheaper than the Post Office.

How much liability can your home business take? Check with your homeowners’ insurance agent for a rider on your existing policy. You need to have adequate personal and product liability insurance. Shop around for the best deal.  You can save money on medical insurance by joining an associations’ group plan e.g. The National Association for the self employed on 800-527-5504. A home business success story can become a failed statistic because of inadequate coverage during the difficult times.

Clean up and shape up. Have a garage sale and clear all accumulated clutter. Have a family meeting and organize the team so that the home keeps running efficiently while you work. Have a note book to record all your daily tasks. The most important ingredient for home business success is a work schedule that is disciplined and result oriented.

Home business success is achievable and the journey enjoyable because you are doing the work you love and making money as a consequence. 

Fifty million home-based businesses will be in operation by 1997, according to Link Resource’s National Work-at Home Survey. All around the country, people who want more control over their lives are starting home businesses

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In New Orleans, Rick Hart’s home based cajun Cargo ships seafood nation wide. In Palatine, Illinois, Stephaine Heavey works from home designing and selling original patterns for fabric dolls. And in Dallas, Lisa McElya published the Dallas Party & Event Planners Guidebook from the entire first floor of her two-story home.

These three people are living the new American dream of owning a business, but avoiding the high overhead and start-up costs of a commercial location. If the idea of working from home is appealing, but you don’t know where to begin, here is a step-by-step guide.

STEP #1 DECIDE WHAT PART OF THE HOUSE TO USE

Select an area away from family activity. The perfect space is a separate room (or perhaps the garage), but any area will do, if it can hold all the business supplies and equipment, and also provide enough work space for desks, tables, or counters.

STEP #2 DETERMINE HOW MUCH TIME YOU CAN SPEND ON THE BUSINESS

Many people start a home business on a part-time basis while raising children or working outside the home. Others start full-time when family and finances allow. However you begin, figure out how may hours per week you can devote to the business Make a weekly chart of your activities, examine it, and determine where the business fits. Don’t assume you have time and find out later you don’t.

STEP #3 DECIDE ON THE TYPE OF BUSINESS

Make a list of things you like to do, your work and volunteer experience, and items you own that can be used in a business. Look over this line-up, and using ideas from it, list possible businesses to start. Eliminate any business that isn’t appealing or doesn’t fill a need people have.

For ideas on different types of businesses, consult the end of this article. Other ideas can be found in the source material listed at the end of this article.

STEP #4 CHOOSE A LEGAL FORM

The three basic legal forms are sole proprietorship, partnership, and corporation. The most common is the sole proprietorship. As its name implies, a sole proprietorship is owned by one individual. It is the oldest form of business, the easiest to start, and the least complicated to dissolve. Here are some of the advantages of this business form:

1. You own all the profits
2. Your business is easy and cheap to organize. You don’t need any government approval, although you may be required to carry a city, state or county license. Your only other obligation is to notify the Internal revenue Service (IRS) for the purposes of sales tax.
3. You’re the boss
4. You enjoy certain tax savings. You must pay regular individual taxes on your income, property, and payroll, but these are not levied as special taxes, as with a corporation. You will also have to pay sales tax which you have received from your customers.
5. Greater personal incentive and satisfaction. Since you have your investment to lose if your business is not successful, you should be more willing to put time, thought, and energy into the business. And when your business is successful, you enjoy maximum sense of accomplishment since you know its success was dependent upon your decisions about your management ability alone.

For more information about this and other forms of business, send for the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Publication MP25. Selecting the Legal Structure for Your BUsiness (50 cents). It outlines the advantages and disadvantages of each legal type of structure. If after reading it you are still uncertain what form of the business should take, consult an attorney.

STEP #5 DETERMINE WHERE THE MONEY WILL COME FROM

There are three ways to finance start-up costs: use your own money, obtain a loan, or find investors. If possible, it is better to start small, use your savings, and not worry about repaying a debt. also keep in mind that since you are a home-based, chances of qualifying for a loan or finding investors are slim until the success of your idea is proven.

STEP #6 GATHER INFORMATION

Spend a few weeks researching home-based businesses. A library or bookstore can provide numerous books on business basics, and on the specific type of business that interest you. Homemade Money by Barbara Brabee (see sources) is an excellent book to start with.

If you are considering a computer business, get in touch with the association of Electronics; Cottagers, P.O. Box 1738, Davis, CA 95617-1738. To keep informed of what is happening in home business world, contact National Home Business report, P.O. Box 2137, Naperville, IL 60566, for subscription information; and Mothers Home Business Network, P.O. Box 423, East Meadow, NY 11554 (send SASE for free information).

STEP #7 CHECK ON ZONING RESTRICTIONS

Find out how your property is zoned, the call City Hall and ask what regulations apply to home businesses in that zone. Also, if you rent or live in a condominium, check the lease or homeowner’s association rules to be certain a home business is allowed.

Generally, if you do not annoy your neighbors with excess noise, odors, and traffic, you will not be deterred from running a business at home. The neighbors may not even be aware of the business, but it is necessary to know exactly what you can and can’t do before you start. This is important should any problems or questions arise later.

STEP #8 PICK A BUSINESS NAME AND REGISTER IT

If the business you choose is different form your name, file an assumed (or fictitious) name certificate with the county. You are notified if another business already has that name, so you can select a new one.

Do this before investing in expensive stationery and brochures. It costs only a few dollars to file, and it protects the business name from being used by someone else in the county.

STEP #9 WRITE A BUSINESS PLAN

A good business plan clarifies your ideas and establishes a plan of action. A good business plan should include a description of what you are selling, your background and qualifications, who the prospective customers are and where they can be found, what is needed to build the business, how you plan to promote, and how much money is need for start-up costs.

SBA Publication #M925, The Business Plan for Home-Based Business () is helpful.

STEP #10 GET AN IDENTIFYING NUMBER

If you are the sole proprietor of the business and have no employees, you may either use your Social Security number or an Employee Identification Number (EIN) as the business number on official forms. If you have employees, or the business is set up as a partnership or corporation, you must obtain an EIN. To do this, complete IRS Form SS-4 (Application for Employer Identification Number) and file it with the nearest IRS Center.

STEP #11 OBTAIN A SALES TAX PERMIT

If the product or service you sell is taxable, you need a state sales tax permit. Call the local tax agency, explain the type of business you have and what you sell, and ask if you need to collect sales tax. If you do, they will send you the necessary information and forms to complete. You also use this tax number when your purchase items for resale.

STEP #12 OBTAIN LICENSES & PERMITS

It’s very important not to overlook any necessary license or permit. For example, some cities and counties require a general business license, and most have special laws regarding the preparation and sale of food.

Call City Hall to find out what is need for your particular business. In addition, Chamber of Commerce provide information on city, county and state licenses and permits.

STEP #13 SELECT BUSINESS CARDS, STATIONERY, BROCHURES

Spend time on the color, design and paper for these items. They make a definite impression-good or bad- on the people who receive them. If you are not certain what is most suitable and effective, consult a graphics designer or a creative printer whose work you like.

STEP #14 OPEN A BUSINESS CHECKING ACCOUNT

Call several banks to find out what services they offer, and what minimum balance, if any, must be maintained to avoid paying a service charge. Also ask about credit card if you plan to offer this convenience to your customers. Bank fees can be significant, so shop around for the best deal.

If your personal checking account is with a credit union, see if it can also provide a separate business account. when you open your account, you may need to show the assumed name certificate and business license.

Finally, investigate obtaining a credit card in the business’s name. If this is not possible, set aside a personal credit card to use for business expenses.

STEP #15 SET UP RECORD-KEEPING SYSTEMS

Put together a simple and effective bookkeeping system with an 8 1/2 x 11″ three-ring binder, columnar pad sheets and twelve pocket dividers from the office supply store. For each month, set up columnar sheets for income and expenses. Use a pocket divider for each month’s receipts, bank statement, deposit tickets, and canceled checks.

In addition, an automobile log for business mileage, and filing system for correspondence, invoices, supplier catalogs, client records, etc. are two other useful tools.

For more information on record-keeping, see IRS publication #583, Information for Business taxpayers.

STEP #16 CHECK IRS REQUIREMENTS

If you comply with basic IRS guidelines, you can deduct a percentage of normal household expenses (mortgage, interest, taxes, insurance, utilities, repairs, etc.) as a business expense. see the box accompanying this article and, for more detailed information, IRS publication #587, Business Use of the Home.

Also become familiar with these IRS forms: Schedule SE (compensation of Social Security Self-Employment Tax) and Schedule 1040 ES (estimated Tax for Individuals). Depending on circumstances, you may have to file them.

STEP #17 OUTFIT THE BUSINESS

Make a list of everything needed to start the business, but before you buy anything, look around the house for things you already own that are usable.

When you are ready to start purchasing, check the classified ads and garage sales. Both are good, inexpensive sources for office furniture, typewriters, computers, answering machines, etc. But only what is absolutely necessary for start-up, and wait until the business is off the ground to get the extras.

STEP #18 DECIDE ON TELEPHONE REQUIREMENTS

Call the telephone company to find out the cost of a business phone in your area. If you cannot afford a separate business line, investigate the telephone company’s regulations on using your personal phone in a business. It may be possible to do this if you follow certain guidelines. Keep a record of long distance business calls as they are a deductible expense. Finally, consider the benefits of an answering machine to catch calls when you are out.

STEP #19 CHECK OUT THE POST OFFICE & UPS

Using a post office box as the business address down plays the fact you are home-based. It also prevents customers from dropping in at all hours.

While looking into box rental, ask for information on the various postal rates, particularly bulk rate, if you plan to do large or specialized mailings. If you mail many packages, check out United Parcel Service (UPS), as it is less expensive than the Post Office.

STEP #20 PURCHASE THE NECESSARY INSURANCE

Check with your homeowners insurance agent about a rider for your existing policy or the need for a separate business policy. Also make sure you have adequate personal and product liability coverage. Shop around, as each company has different rules regarding home businesses

STEP #21 ORGANIZE THE HOUSE & YOURSELF

To have more time for business, organize and simplify household routines. Start by holding a garage sale to get rid of unnecessary possessions. Next, have a family conference and divide household duties, making sure each person does his or her part. The, set up a planning notebook to keep track of appointments, things to do, calls to make, errands to run, shopping, etc. Finally, set up a work schedule so you won’t get sidetracked by TV, neighbor’s visits, snacking, and telephone calls.

Creating and operating a home business is a wonderful and rewarding challenge. The satisfaction is not only in the money earned, but in doing what makes you happy.

INTRODUCTION

Fifty million home-based businesses will be operational, in 1997, according to Link Resource’s National Work-at-Home Study. Across the country, people who want more control over their lives (at home and at work) are starting home businesses.

In New Orleans, Louisiana, Rick Hart’s home based Cajun Cargo ships seafood nationwide. In Palatine, Illinois, Stephaine Heavey works from home designing and selling original patterns for cloth dolls. And in Dallas, Texas, Lisa McElya published the Dallas Party & Event Planners Guidebook from the entire first floor of her two-story home.

These three people are living the American dream of owning a new company and their own business, but without the burden and overhead cost of having a physical business location. Virtual or Internet businesses are ideal because their start-up cost or initial investment to get set-up tend to be much lower. For example and in general, online affiliate marketing businesses do not require anything more than an Internet connection and perhaps a website. If the idea of working from home is appealing to you, but you do not know where to start, then here is your step by step guide brought to you by CompuLinear Software’s iMarketing Group.

STEP #1 DECIDE WHAT PART OF THE HOUSE TO USE

Select an area away from family activity, noise, and distractions. The perfect space is a separate room (or perhaps the garage, basement, or attic). Almost any area will do if it can accommodate all of your business supplies and equipment; in addition, you will need to provide enough workspace for computer hardware, desks, tables, etc.

STEP #2 DETERMINE HOW MUCH TIME YOU CAN SPEND ON THE BUSINESS

Many people start a home-based business on a part-time basis while raising children or working outside their home. Others start fulltime when family and finances allow or have been forced to do so in light of the recent recession, massive layoffs, and corporate downsizing here in the United States. However you begin, you must have a plan first and foremost; you will need to figure out how may hours per week you can devote to your new business; and how much seed money you have for your budding business venture. This is where a business plan and a little later a marketing plan are required. Make a weekly chart (see Step #22) of your activities so that you can examine it to determine where your niche business fits into the grand scheme of the marketplace. Do not assume that you will have time to devote to your new business only to discover later on that you that do not. Any new business requires commitment of one’s time especially if you are the sole proprietor who dons many hats daily!

STEP #3 DECIDE ON THE TYPE OF BUSINESS

Make a list of things you like to do, your work and volunteer experience, your knowledge base about a specific subject, and items you own that can be used in a business (see Step #17). Examine your list carefully; using ideas from the list, note all potential businesses to start. Eliminate any business that does not appeal to you or fulfill a need many people have. If you are considering an Internet business, then use Search Engine Marketing and Keyword Research to help you decide on a possibly viable online business.

STEP #4 CHOOSE A LEGAL BUSINESS FORM OR ENTITY  

The three basic legal forms are sole proprietorship, partnership (including LLP), and corporation (including C, Sub Chapter S, and LLC). The most common is the sole proprietorship. As its name implies, a sole proprietorship is owned by one individual. It is the oldest form of business, the easiest to form start, and the least complicated to dissolve. However, keep in mind that the sole proprietorship’s personal liability exposure is unlimited; your risk depends upon the nature of your business operations, environment, local economy, cost of goods, trends, and a few other factors. Here are some of the advantages of this business form (entity):

1. You own or keep all of the profits after expenses are paid.

2. Your business is easy and cheap to organize. You do not need any state or federal government formation requirements or approval, although you may be required to carry a city, state or county business and/or excise tax licenses. Your only other obligation is to notify the Internal revenue Service (IRS) for the purposes of sales tax.

3. You are the boss.

4. There are some tax savings and advantages. However, you must pay regular individual taxes on your income, property, and payroll, but these are not levied as special taxes as with a corporation. You will also have to pay sales tax which you have received from your customers’ purchases. Check with the IRS and/or a tax specialist regarding Internet sales and purchases outside of your state of business operation.

5. There tends to be a greater personal incentive and satisfaction because you have a personal investment at stake should your business not become successful; thus, you are more willing to put extra time, thought, and energy into the business. Now when your business becomes successful, you will enjoy a greater sense of accomplishment knowing that its success is solely dependent upon your managerial decisions and skills.

STEP #5 DETERMINE WHERE THE MONEY WILL COME FROM

There are four ways to finance start-up costs: use your own money, obtain a loan, grants, or venture (angel) capital. Using your own money is great if you have it on hand because you will not have to worry about repaying a debt.

STEP #6 GATHER INFORMATION

Spend a few weeks or longer researching home-based businesses, marketing trends, marketing intelligence, and your business niche. The World Wide Web, the library, or bookstore are excellent resources of information.

STEP #7 CHECK ZONING RESTRICTIONS

Find out how your property is zoned then call City Hall and ask about regulations that might apply to home businesses in your zone. Additionally, if you rent or live in a condominium, check your lease or homeowner’s association guide to be certain that a home business is allowed.

STEP #8 CHOOSE A BUSINESS NAME AND REGISTER IT

If the business you choose is different form your name, then file an assumed (or fictitious) name certificate with the county. You are notified if another business already has that name, so you can select a new one. The requirements for business name registration will vary per region. 

STEP #9 WRITE A BUSINESS PLAN  

A good business plan clarifies your mission, ideas, and establishes a plan of action concerning how you plan to go to market. A good business plan should include a description of what you are selling, your background and qualifications, who the prospective customers are and where they can be found, what is needed to build the business, how you plan to advertise and promote, and how much money will be need for start-up costs. One of the biggest problems many new small businesses have is that they are undercapitalized. A solid business plan will help you plot your course to success!

STEP #10 GET AN IDENTIFYING NUMBER

If you are the sole proprietor of the business and have no employees, you may either use your Social Security number or an Employee Identification Number (EIN) as the business number on official forms. If you have employees, or the business is set up as a partnership or corporation, you must obtain an EIN. To do this, complete IRS Form SS-4 (Application for Employer Identification Number) and file it with the nearest IRS Center.

STEP #11 OBTAIN A SALES TAX PERMIT  

If the product or service you sell is taxable, you need a state sales tax permit. Call the local tax agency, explain the type of business you have and what you sell, and ask if you need to collect sales tax. If you do, they will send you the necessary information and forms to complete. This tax number can be used for purchasing products you plan to resell. If you plan to operate a non-profit, then you will want to apply for 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status.

STEP #12 OBTAIN LICENSES & PERMITS

It’s very important not to overlook any necessary license or permit. For example, some cities and counties require a general business license, and most have special laws regarding the preparation and sale of food. Contact your local county office for the requirements.

STEP #13 SELECT BUSINESS CARDS, STATIONERY & BROCHURES

Spend time on the color, design, and paper for these items. Make sure that your business’ logo is relevant to your product or service. These are marketing tools and you want to present your business in the best light and as competitively as possible. If you are creative, then there are a variety of professional grade business card / stationery software at your disposal; otherwise, consult a graphic designer.

STEP #14 OPEN A BUSINESS CHECKING ACCOUNT  

Call several banks to compare services they offer, minimum balances, credit cards, credit lines, rates, and service charges. When you open your business account, you may need to show your business license. Obtain a credit card in the business’ name; if this is not possible, then set aside a personal credit card for business expenses.

STEP #15 SET UP RECORD-KEEPING SYSTEMS  

After doing a little online research, one will find a wide selection of affordable record-keeping, financial, bookkeeping / accounting, and sales CRM software.

STEP #16 CHECK IRS REQUIREMENTS

If you comply with basic IRS guidelines, you may be able to deduct a percentage of your normal household expenses (mortgage, interest, taxes, insurance, utilities, repairs, etc.) as a business expense. For further information, see—IRS publication #587, Business Use of the Home; IRS forms: Schedule SE (compensation of Social Security Self Employment Tax) and Schedule 1040 ES (estimated Tax for Individuals).

STEP #17 OUTFIT THE BUSINESS

Make a list of everything needed to start your business. Look around the house for items that are usable; you will save a lot of money by doing this. Always keep an eye out for quality, inexpensive items for your home-based office.

STEP #18 DECIDE ON TELEPHONE REQUIREMENTS

Contact the telephone company to find out the cost of a business phone in your area. If you cannot afford a separate business line, investigate the telephone company’s regulations on using your personal phone in a business. It may be possible to do this if you follow certain guidelines. Keep a record of long distance business calls as they are a deductible expense. See if you can save money by bundling your Internet and telephone services for a lower price. Pre-paid calling card services will save your business some money too. 

Finally, consider the benefits of an answering machine or service to capture important telephone calls when you are out of the office or away on vacation. And always remember to return calls in a timely and professional manner.

STEP #19 CHECK OUT THE POST OFFICE & SHIPPING

Using a post office box as the business address down plays the fact you are home-based. It also prevents customers from dropping in at all hours. While looking into box rental, ask for information on the various postal rates, particularly bulk rate, if you plan to do large or specialized mailings. If you mail many packages locally or internationally, then check out the many parcel / shipping services that are available and definitely be conscious of shipping, handling, and insurance costs. 

STEP #20 PURCHASE THE NECESSARY INSURANCE

Check with your homeowner’s insurance agent about a rider for your existing policy or the need for a separate business policy. Also, make sure you have adequate personal and product liability coverage. If you are a renter, then check with your insurance agent or broker to see if your business is covered. In some instances, you may be required to carry Errors and Omissions (i.e., business liability insurance) insurance, especially if you engage in a professional service type of business such real estate, insurance, notary, financial services, architecture, engineering, etc.

Shop around, as each insurance company and each state have different rules, regulations, and requirements concerning home business operations.

To save money on medical insurance, join an association and participate in their group medical / health plan. Discount health care cards are another option for your employees and yourself.

STEP #21 ORGANIZE THE HOUSE & YOURSELF

To have more time for business activities and functions, organize and simplify your household routines. Start by holding a garage sale to get rid of unnecessary possessions. Next, have a family conference and divide household duties and chores while making sure each person does his or her own part. There are numerous personal organizational management software, PDAs, and tools which can help you and your business get organized.

Set up a work schedule so you won’t get sidetracked by TV, neighbor’s visits, snacking, surfing the Internet, and non-business related telephone calls. This also means that you should set a specific time of day for telephone prospecting / sales calls as well as for returning calls.

STEP #22 START AN ELECTRONIC BUSINESS JOURNAL

From the pre-planning stages to Day 1 and throughout the life of your new business, keep an electronic journal of your business’ day-to-day activities, business cases and challenges, planning, action items, and of course its progress. Use your favorite word processing and/or spreadsheet program. By doing so, you will be amazed at how much more organized and efficient your business will be and how you will be much more on top of your business’ daily operations. This is also a great customer service tool.

In conclusion, forming and operating a home-based business is a wonderful, challenging, and often rewarding venture. There is nothing else like being your own boss and being the sole or top decision-maker. The satisfaction is not only in the money earned and the growth of your, but in actually doing what makes you happy and truly enjoy doing.

To your success!

Franchise operations manuals may seem daunting, especially for a company that has never written an operations manual before. Bewildered by the new business of franchising, with its legal requirements, franchise disclosure documents, operations manuals, training programs, etc., many companies delegate responsibility to a high-priced franchise consultant.

But using someone to write your franchise operations manual who knows literally nothing about your business, never makes any sense when everything is considered objectively. And, besides a hefty price tag of ,000 or more to write the manuals, using franchise consultants brings another, expensive result – legal risk. Here are some drafting tips and strategies from a recognized, international franchise expert.

Why Franchise Consultants Are Risky Business
Paying someone who knows nothing about your business, and having them learn it from scratch at your expense is really just common sense. Using franchise consultants for what is a relatively easy and straightforward task has never made any sense – except to the franchise consultants who charge exorbitant amounts to write an operations manual. It’s one of those little franchise secrets that the consultants don’t ever mention or discuss.

Using a franchise consultant to write a franchise operations manual also carries legal risk. The principal legal risk comes from including inappropriate topics, chapters and policies that are commonly found in company-owned, chain operations manuals.  If these are included, as they often are in franchise operations manuals, very significant franchise liability issues arise. Because the franchise consultants are not franchise attorneys or experts, they are entirely oblivious to this risk. They don’t know where the bullets come from in franchise litigation. As a testifying and consulting franchise expert, I routinely find franchise operations manuals drafted by franchise consultants and do-it-yourself manuals containing inappropriate chapters or topics. And, because they rely on boilerplate manuals used for other clients, where (hopefully) all instances of burgers, for example, are searched and replaced with tax returns, the end result is not only dangerous – it is also very mediocre. Giving a mediocre operations manual to a franchise owner who has invested hundreds of thousands (or in some cases millions) of dollars in your franchise model is definitely not the best way to start or ensure a smooth franchise relationship.

The Best Practice Approach To Drafting Franchise Operations Manuals
Besides the expensive and legally risky approach there is another, best franchise practice approach based on almost three decades of writing, editing and reviewing hundreds of franchise operations manuals. The essence of this approach is also common sense – letting the true expert in your business write the manual. Typically that person is the founder of the business, or a small team of management personnel who know business operations inside and out. While a franchise expert should be involved in the process, the expert’s role should be limited to a planning and editing capacity.

Three Easy Steps For Drafting A Franchise Operations Manual
The drafting process begins with planning and developing the Table of Contents for the franchise operations manual. This includes making sure all the appropriate chapters and topics are included, and the inappropriate ones are not. Knowledge of franchise management best practices is essential here, and that’s why a franchise expert’s input and planning is so important. Because most franchise operations manuals are incorporated by reference in the franchise agreement (which is a franchise industry best practice)  the franchise contract is also  reviewed.  Some operations-specific information may be inadvertently included in the contract by the attorneys, which is not a good thing. This needs to be moved out or appropriately amended.

The second step is giving the person(s) within your company who have drafting responsibility samples of operations manual writing styles, guidelines and instructions. With these, they can begin drafting each chapter of the manual using their extensive operational knowledge of the day-to-day, week-to-week, etc. aspects of your business.

The third and final step is having the franchise expert review each chapter as it is drafted and comment on the professionalism and sufficiency of the chapters from a franchise industry best practices and franchise operator perspective.

Summary
The first couple chapters are typically the hardest to draft, as you or your management personnel learn and apply operations manual drafting techniques under the guidance of a professional editor. But after that, it’s smooth sailing through the balance of the document. This approach produces a professional, easy to use and update franchise operations manual. It also ensures the most efficient use of resources and talent, and eliminates having to pay a franchise consultant ,000 or more for this relatively simple task. Whether or not a company ultimately franchises, the process of planning, documenting and implementing standardized operating procedures and systems via operations manuals, like blue chip franchise and non-franchised companies do, makes any firm operate more efficiently and competitively. In a franchise environment, it ensures consistent and uniform operations, helping personnel with different skills learn to perform tasks in a consistent manner throughout the franchise network. Finally, it’s important to realize the process of writing a franchise operations manual never stops. As the business model evolves, so must the operations manual – the ultimate reason why writing the manual yourself to begin with makes imminent common sense. As one franchise company executive observed “I found that not only was writing my own operations manual a cost savings; it was imperative.”

copyright 2008-2009, Kevin B. Murphy, B.S., M.B.A., J.D. – all rights reserved

For further information, visit the Franchise Foundations website

Setting up a home-based business may be a more cost-effective alternative to setting up a major company, but it may still drain the limited resources of a small business owner. To keep the business going, small business loans will definitely be necessary. These can be availed of through credit card services. This article will show you how.

First, you need to set up your home based business. Do your research on the type of business you want to establish. Find out what licensing and zoning requirements you need to meet and ensure that you meet them all. Do not attempt to cut corners here.

Get the services of an accountant, even if only on a consultancy basis, to help you set up your books and records correctly from the start. Ask for help in determining deductions so that you can plan on your business expenses. Establish a routine for keeping strict records of all income and expenses right from day one. Keep all business related receipts, invoices, client records, bank statements, bank deposit slips and canceled checks.

Being home-based, you need to set aside a particular place in your home just for your business. Make sure it can accommodate all the necessary equipment. Check that you have the appropriate electrical outlets and have them installed if needed to avoid overloading your system. Set up rules to keep the area insulated from household noise and disturbances.

Have a business phone installed that is separate from your residential line. Avoid having your children answer the business line. Install an answering machine to take calls when you are out or occupied.

Get a post office box so that you can use that address in your official stationery and other documents, keeping your business profile professional. Hold client meetings in rented conference rooms or set business meetings in good restaurants.

One of the most important steps in setting up your home-based business is to acquire credit card services that will enable you to accept credit card payments and debit card payments. These credit card services provide all the necessary software and hardware for you to be able to process payments in person, online or by phone. This step alone already expands the customer base that you can access.

Credit card services will also serve you well once your home-based business begins to feel the need for additional capital. When you need to get small business loans, you will not have to approach banks which are most likely not sympathetic to small home-based businesses.

The need for small business loans usually comes when the home-based business is already at least a year old. At such time, your home-based business would have created an average monthly credit card sales record with your credit card services company. You can refer to that when you approach your credit card services company for small business loans, sometimes called cash advances.

Credit card services do offer small business loans to their clients based on average monthly credit card sales, without the need for any collateral. The aforementioned average monthly credit card sales guarantee your company’s capability to pay the small business loans. Payments will be automatically deducted as a percentage of future credit card sales. This arrangement frees you from worrying about the amortization for your small business loans, too.

As soon as you pay up your small business loans completely, you are automatically eligible for new small business loans for as long as your home-based business is getting a good monthly average in credit card sales. With the help of credit card services, you can continue to expand and grow your home-based business.

The choice to automate a small business blog often comes when the owner decides to dedicate his or her time exclusively to core business.  The upkeep of a small business blog can be too much for an individual, so web content providers are often utilized to automate a small business blog.  The steps taken to automate a small business blog include: finding a web content writer, mapping out the web content, and assigning the related tasks.

In order to automate a small business blog, the web content is typically outsourced to a provider.  Finding an affordable web content writer is possible on any small business budget.  The entire process, from the research phase to the actual writing, is handled by the web content provider.  After the writing project is outsourced, the content planning stage begins.

To automate a small business blog , the web content plan must be developed by either the writer or the small business owner.  The web content plan is a portion of the outsourcing process, and it typically includes mapping out the content for a designated period of time.  The pieces can be purchased upfront on a monthly or weekly basis in most cases.  The topics to be discussed are all that is needed in the web content planning phase.

It is possible to automate a small business blog by either outsourcing the entire content development process, or different tasks associated with the web content.  Web content is often outsourced through isolated tasks.  Some small business owners prefer to write their own content, and only require that the research phases be outsourced.  Other small business owners elect to have the entire workflow for web content development handled by the web content writer.  There are quite a few options available for the small business blog.

The steps taken to outsource a small business blog are easy for most.  By selecting a web content provider, developing the web content plan, and determining the tasks to be outsourced, a small business blog can be completely automated.  The most important aspect of outsourcing a small business blog is finding a web content resource to produce the desired material.

Copyright (c) 2009 Marco Carbajo

I felt inspired to write this article after receiving so many questions about credit for small business and how you go about getting approved for cash credit lines despite the current credit crunch in the economy.

Let me be the first to tell you that businesses are still getting cash credit and business financing today but lenders have adopted new criteria and stricter guidelines that many business owners fail to recognize or adapt to.

It’s more important now than ever to be pro active and informed on what is required to obtain business financing for your business. I don’t recommend anyone to wait until you need financing to start because the business credit building process takes time and doesn’t happen overnight.

Ever heard the phrase “Dig your well before you get thirsty?”

I’ll even give you the shovel!

It’s important to understand that the biggest benefit to building business credit is not just having access to cash credit. One of the greater benefits is obtaining cash credit that does not report to your personal credit profiles. However, before any business credit building begins you’re business must meet certain corporate conformity guidelines in order to prevent it from getting red flagged by the business credit bureas.

When you start building business credit and progress in the process by establishing trade credit and eventually cash credit it’s important for you to understand that is not the end result that you should be shooting for. After building your business credit foundation the cash credit that you obtain should only be just the beginning!

You can be assured that you will obtain as much cash credit for your current needs when you follow the right steps but whether your business obtains $50,000 or $200,000, if you continue to follow the right step-by-step process you will be able to increase your cash credit lines to double or even triple the initial amount.

Here are my ‘Eight Steps to Building Ultimate Business Credit.’

1. Corporate Conformity

This is where you’re business credit foundation is set up and it’s critical not to take short cuts or side steps because you’re ability to obtain financing can be hampered. At this stage it’s vitally important to structure your business entity properly from both a tax and asset protection standpoint. In additon, both the business credit bureaus and lending institutions will verify certain information about your business that must meet specific lending guidelines. In order to achieve the best business classification ratings make sure you meet all the requirements before moving on to the next step in the business credit building process.

2. Business Plan

This is not a mandatory step, but it’s necessary for your overall business success as well as a door opener for specific lenders.

3. Business Credit Profile

Once you have completed corporate conformity you will be ready to set up your business credit profile with Dun & Bradstreet as well as steps to activate your business credit profile with Corporate Experian and Business Equifax.

4. Tier 1 Trade Accounts

This is the first step where you will be setting up trade accounts for your business that are known to grant small amounts of credit to businesses that have no credit history.

*Please note –

Even if you have been in business for several years doesn’t mean you have a business credit history. After setting up your business credit file there will be no payment history so you will need to start with low credit limits and gradually build it to larger amounts over time.

Another option is having your existing vendors that you have history with start reporting your payment history to the business credit bureaus. Dun & Bradstreet even offers a credit builder program for adding existing trade accounts but be sure the trade accounts you want to add fall under D&B’s criteria prior to purchasing their program.

5. Tier 2 Trade Accounts

At this point you set up business trade accounts for your business that are known to grant credit to businesses that have little business credit history. Because most Tier 1 trade accounts will now be reporting on your business credit file you can now submit appllications for Tier 2. When Tier 2 vendors pull your business credit report they will see that you have some good history so they will grant additional credit in amounts higher then approved for in Tier 1.

6. Tier 3 Trade Accounts

These companies will grant credit in higher amounts than what was granted from Tier 1 and Tier 2 accounts. Those members with good personal credit history may also be ready for bank financing at this stage. Each tier builds upon the previous tier. Many of my clients who want to apply for bank financing at this stage can but at this stage they will need to use their personal credit scores for approval and will need to be in the 680+ range. If personal credit scores are below the necessary range then I suggest enrolling in a credit restoration program.

7. Tier 4 Cash Credit Accounts

Tier 4 accounts consist of vendors who will grant your business cash credit cards, typically with a Visa or MasterCard logo. Benefits to you include no personal guarantee and affect on your personal credit profiles.

8. Advanced Business Financing

At this stage of the process your business credit file is built, you have history, business scores, a bank rating; access to funding and you can continue to obtain even greater amounts of capital by following my advanced business credit building strategies. There are many different advanced strategies to obtain additional capital with and without a personal guarantee at this stage.

Remember it’s not only about how much cash credit for you’re business you obtain initially, it’s about advancing to even greater amounts of credit capacity for your business. This is accomplished by following a proven simple step-by-step process.

Loose papers, receipts, notes, credit card bills, financial statements, tax returns – these are the byproducts of owning a business.  They take up space on your desk and in your mind and every time you look at the litter you feel disorganized. 

Before I created a system to organize my business paperwork in the manner I’ll soon explain, I felt disjointed, out of whack, and like I never got anything done.  I’d walk into my office and want to turn right around and walk out. 

Is there a better way to organize your business finances? You bet.  Follow the steps below to create a simple, yet functional way to organize your business and live a more carefree life.

Step 1 – Get a Binder – Purchase a three-ring binder based on the volume of paperwork you produce annually.  A 1.5” or 2” binder would be adequate for most businesses.  You will use one binder for each year you are in business, so that every detail pertaining to your business that year is in one place for easy retrieval.  In the viewing window type a cover that shows the name of your business and the year.

Step 2 – Get a Three Hole Punch – Purchase a three-hole punch. This is to hole punch all larger receipts, documents and financial statements and have them fit neatly into your binder.

Step 3 – Get a Zipper Compartment – Purchase a plastic zipper compartment from an office supply store to hold small receipts.

Step 4 – Purchase Accounting Software – Get yourself accounting software so that you can track your finances.  Professional business owners track their profits and losses using the right tools and analyze their financials regularly.  I recommend QuickBooks, but there are others such as Peachtree, Microsoft Office Small Business, and Simply Accounting. Try to begin tracking sales and expenses from the beginning of your business or the beginning of the year.

Step 5 – THE SYSTEM: Arrange paperwork in your binder according to month.  Keep all receipts, credit card statements and bank statements (make sure to reconcile these monthly), and sales tax reports (if you sell products).  At the end of each month, run a Profit and Loss Statement and a Balance Sheet (collectively known as Financial Statements).  The Financial Statements become the separator for each month.  File small receipts that can’t be hole-punched in the zipper compartment at the back of your binder.

Step 6 – CLOSE IT OUT – At the end of each year, reconcile your accounts, print your annual Financial Statements, and close out your year.  Put the binder away and start a new one for the New Year.  Give your accountant or CPA a copy of your QuickBooks file to prepare your income tax return.

Tips:

The system above is one way to organize your business finances.  If you would like to go beyond this system and organize your business for financial success, you may want to consider writing a Business Plan.  I have created a plan that incorporates Goal Setting, and heavy Branding and Marketing with My Success Book – a built-in Daily Action Planner to encourage accountability and results.  Find it here: www.twopageminibusinessplan.com.

©Copyright 2008- Suzanne Muusers – All Rights Reserved  

The wholesale business is one of the largest and oldest industries in the world. You can date back organized trading to our first civilizations. The most important cities of the ancient world where trading posts that became important because you could control the economy in time of peace and also in time of war.
Now most business trade in some way or another, they trade products, services, something. Now it is easier then ever before to trade products, we have many more sales and distribution channels than ever before, we have many new tools to our disposal and information is easy to get and to transfer.
These days you can use the internet, drop shipping, telephone, email, bank wire transfers and many other resources to expedite business transactions and make it much more interesting for wholesale businesses.
There are many types of businesses you can start, run, or grow. It does not matter where you are in your business, fortune 500 or start-up. You will have a host of information to your disposal including articles, best practices, ebooks, lists of suppliers and how to guides.
Now you don’t even have to buy and sell products. Anyone can become a broker and just sell products without providing any start-up capital or investment. This works for selling to distributors, consumers, retailers, anyone.
Are you in business now or just starting a wholesale business? What type of business will you start? What products can you sell and where? How much money do other individuals or companies make? How can you start? These are all questions you should be asking yourself when exploring your venture. They are the most basic questions. Don’t just think of buying something and selling it. Learn about your products, where they are sold, who sells them, are they name brands? What are the prices for all channels? Who are the players in the industry?
More difficult questions will include what kind of profit and gross margins you’ll make, how to negotiate prices, who are the best suppliers for each product, how to find distribution channels for your items, etc.
The type of ventures you can find or start will include:
-Trading
-Distribution
-Exporting
-Importing
-Liquidations
-Many More
You should also learn about the different sales channels where you can send your products. Here are just some examples of sales and distribution channels you can use to sell your products. Each channel represents a sales opportunity, these will include:
-Online Stores
-eBay
-Selling to Supermarkets
-Selling to Convenience Stores
-Exporting to Mexico, Asia, Europe, etc.
-Selling to distributors and wholesalers
-Cash and Carry Stores
-Door to Door at retail prices
-Many More
Where you sell the products will depend greatly on the product and also on the pricing you have. If you deal directly with the manufacturer you can probably get great the best pricing available to anyone and sell to any channel you want including other large distributors. if you are buying the products from second or third parties your prices will not be very competitive.
No matter what kind of wholesaler you are. You have to try to work directly or as close to the manufacturer or brand owner as you can, or better, you can be the brand owner and sell your own products. That’s the best business of them all.
You can also find many type products including electronics, software, clothing, jewelry, and sports equipment, house furniture, that you can promote trade and sell.
Remember we did not touch on promotions in this article, just the basics of a wholesale business. Distribution is first but you will also have to remember getting the product on the shelves is one thing, selling it out the shelves is another.