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Small Business Launch Checklist

A general checklist of steps for starting a small business: planning, registration, setup and finding first customers.

What this tool does

A general checklist of steps for starting a small business: planning, registration, setup and finding first customers.

How to use

  1. Work down the list and tick each item as you finish it.
  2. Ticks are saved on this device, in your browser, so they are still there when you come back.

What this checklist covers

The list has 3 groups and 10 items.

  • Plan and register (5 items): Write a business plan; Choose a business structure (ask an adviser which suits you); Check how to register your business and its name where you operate; Check with your tax authority whether you need a business tax number or registration; Check which licenses and permits apply to your business
  • Set up (3 items): Open a business bank account; Set up a bookkeeping system; Create a website and social media accounts
  • Find customers (2 items): Develop a marketing strategy; Line up your first customers

Tip: Tick each item as you go. Ticks are saved on this device.

Limitations

  • This is a general list. It does not know your circumstances, so add or skip steps to suit you.
  • Ticks are saved only in this browser on this device.
  • It is not legal, tax or financial advice. Requirements depend on your location and business type.

FAQs

Q: Does the checklist change with my situation?
A: No. It starts as one list of 10 items in 3 groups and does not ask questions about you. Add your own items and remove the ones that do not apply.
Q: Are my ticks saved?
A: Yes. Ticks are saved in your browser on this device, so they are still there when you come back. They are not sent anywhere and do not follow you to another device or browser.
Q: How do I start again?
A: Press Uncheck All on a section to clear its ticks and keep your items, or Reset to Default to bring back the original list for that section and remove the items you added. Clearing your browser data for this site also removes the saved ticks.
Q: Does the checklist cover my country?
A: It is deliberately general. Registration, tax and licensing steps depend on where you operate, so check them locally.

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