Today's blog post is geared toward the new entrepreneur, someone who's getting ready to start a business in 2024 and has all the questions associated with that. If you're new to business or just at the very beginning stages, it’s likely you've had a whole bunch of questions pop up like: “What type of business am I starting?”, “What tools do I need to use to manage everything?”, and “Who do I need to think about talking to get some help?” We’re going to cover all of that today. I've come up with 5 key actions or decisions that I think are crucial in the beginning stages of your business journey. So, let's dive right in.

1. Choosing Your Entity Type

One of the first things you need to decide is the type of entity your business will be. This decision is foundational because it impacts many aspects of your business, from obtaining a bank account to legal protections.

Sole Proprietorship

If you're starting a simple business, perhaps as a side hustle, you don't necessarily need to form an LLC right away. You can operate as a sole proprietor using your Social Security number. This means you'll file your taxes using your personal tax return, with a schedule that includes all your business information.

DBA (Doing Business As)

If you want to operate under a different name than your own, you can file for a DBA (Doing Business As). Services like LegalZoom make this process easy and affordable, usually costing around $100.

LLC (Limited Liability Company)

An LLC separates your personal assets from your business assets, offering legal protection. If your business gets sued, only your business assets are at risk. You can form an LLC online through services like LegalZoom for a few hundred dollars.

Partnerships

If you're entering into a partnership, it's crucial to have a clear agreement on paper detailing each partner's ownership and responsibilities. Consult with a legal professional to set this up correctly.

S-Corporation

An S-Corporation is a tax designation rather than a legal entity. If you start as an LLC, you can elect to be taxed as an S-Corp later, which can save on payroll taxes. Discuss this option with your CPA to determine if it’s right for you.

2. Managing Startup Costs

When starting a business, you'll likely incur various startup costs before generating any revenue. It's important to track all these expenses meticulously.

Tracking Expenses

Keep a spreadsheet detailing every purchase related to your business, including the date, amount, vendor, and a brief description. This documentation will be crucial for tax deductions.

Deducting Expenses

Even if your business isn't profitable initially, you can deduct these expenses from your taxable income, reducing your overall tax burden. Keep all receipts and organize them in a dedicated folder, either digitally or physically.

3. Creating a Budget

Budgeting is vital for both your personal and business finances.

Personal Budget

Start with your personal budget to understand how much you need to live on and how much you can invest in your business. If you have a spouse, discuss your new business venture and its financial implications with them.

Business Budget

Create projections for your business income and expenses. This can be as simple as writing it down on a notepad or using an app like EveryDollar by Ramsey Solutions. Accurate budgeting helps you navigate your financial goals and ensures you're prepared for future expenses.

Avoiding Debt

Avoid starting your business with debt if possible. If you must, ensure you have a clear repayment plan and understand the impact on your personal finances.

4. Setting Up Financial Tools and Systems

Business Bank Account

Once your business entity is set up, open a dedicated business bank account. This helps keep personal and business finances separate, which is crucial for legal protection and clean bookkeeping.

Accounting Software

Invest in a cloud-based accounting system like QuickBooks Online. It helps track all your financial data from the start, making it easier to run reports and see trends over time. I recommend starting with this tool from day one to avoid future headaches.

Business Credit Card

Consider getting a business credit card for expenses, but only if you can manage it responsibly. Ensure the credit card integrates with your accounting software for seamless tracking.

Payroll Processing

If you have employees, including yourself if you're an S-Corp, you’ll need a payroll processing company. I recommend ADP for its user-friendly dashboard and excellent customer service.

5. Hiring Professionals

Legal and Tax Professionals

Consulting with legal and tax professionals when starting your business is crucial. They can help you choose the right business structure, set up proper agreements, and ensure you’re compliant with tax regulations.

Bookkeepers

Consider hiring a bookkeeper to manage your financial records accurately. This is particularly important if bookkeeping isn’t your strong suit.

By following these key actions and decisions, you'll set a strong foundation for your new business. Remember, every business is unique, so tailor these recommendations to fit your specific needs. Good luck with your entrepreneurial journey!

Feel free to reach out with any questions you have about your small business finances. You can email me at [email protected].

Be sure to tune into the Financially Adjusted podcast (just listed as ‘Financially Adjusted’) wherever you listen to podcasts! You can also check out the free financial resources at https://www.financiallyadjusted.com/ under the ‘Free Resources’ tab at the top. There’s a checklist that will guide you on all the topics in this blog post. The link is https://www.financiallyadjusted.com/startsmart.

Disclaimer: This content is for educational and informational purposes only. Please consult with an accounting professional for direct advice based on your specific business situation.

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