The maze of government regulations for starting a business can be complicated and discouraging. Microsoft Startup Center helps you create a checklist for starting a business to strategize, prioritize, and organize right from the start. The business checklist simplifies the extensive process of learning and understanding business rules while meeting all legal requirements. For every detail you need to address, Microsoft Startup Center provides a resource to get the job done easier and quicker.

Let's get started with the first section.

Decide on a business structure

Choose a Business Structure

Before you begin doing business, you need to choose how you will run your business. There are multiple ways to structure an organization, including sole proprietorship, general partnership, Limited Liability Company (LLC) and a C Corporation. Depending on your business, you want to set up a structure that best meets your current situation while looking ahead at your future goals and growth.

Register a New Business

After choosing a business structure, you have to make your business official by registering the name and obtaining all necessary licenses. Licenses are required on the federal, state and local level.

Understand New Business Tax Responsibility

Business taxes depend on the structure and type of business you run. Federal, state, and local taxes all apply to businesses, however, the regulations differ for each business setup. Learning and understanding business tax information through Microsoft Startup Center, along with business tax software, can help you better estimate the dollar amount you'll owe at year's end. Due to the often larger sum, knowing ahead of time helps you prepare and pay on time.

Purchase Business Insurance

Business insurance is imperative to any business, new or old, corporate or home office. Finding the right insurance coverage to fit your type of business and legal requirements is key to covering the essentials in addition to staying within budget. Having the essential insurance to meet the federal and state requirements is a must, but having insurance to cover the remainder of your business assets and personal financials is just as important.

Purchase a UPC barcode

If you sell your products in a retail store, you may need a UPC barcode. Having a UPC barcode will create a more efficient way of completing sales for both you and your seller, while immediately updating transactions and current inventory availability. Apply for a UPC barcode and purchase the appropriate business software and printer to add the barcode onto your items.

Hire Business Legal Service

No matter the size or simplicity of your business, hiring a business legal service is critical when starting a new business to ensure you've met all legal guidelines and business rules. Once your business is started, having a business legal service is convenient for any legal questions requiring professional advice. Find an attorney that you are both comfortable with and who is very familiar with your type of business.