Business Start Up Checklist

1. What type of business structure will you have - sole proprietorship, partnerships, corporations, limited liability company, or limited partnerships? You may want to consult an attorney or accountant for more information on which structure is best for you.  Once you determine your structure, go to www.michigan.gov/som/0,1607,7-192-29943_31466---,00.html to register your business.
2. You may want to register a DBA (Doing Business As) at the Hillsdale County Clerk's Office (courthouse) (even if you have chosen something other than a sole proprietorship) to ensure your business name will not be taken by another Hillsdale County business.  However, please note this DBA is only protected in Hillsdale County (the county and state do not cross reference their lists).
3. Michigan does not require a general business license - however, some businesses do require licensing, certification and or permits.  First check with the county/city or township that you are looking to locate your business and then check online at www.michigan.org/medc/services/license/
4. Register for your Federal Identification Number (EIN) if you will have employees and if you will operate as a corporation or partnership.  Sole proprietorships without employees do not need an EIN number.  To apply for an EIN number - go online to: http://www.irs.gov/businesses/small/article/0,,id=102767,00.html.
5. Register with the IRS for payment of federal taxes. An attorney or accountant's advice should be sought.  For additional information, you may visit www.irs.gov or call the IRS at 1-800-829-4933.
6. Contact the township/city/village in which you are placing a business to see what (if any) local taxes apply.
7. Hiring Employees - there are state & federal requirements you must follow including payroll taxes, state & federal unemployment insurance (tax), income tax withholding, worker's compensation and, new hire reporting.
8. Air, water and solid waste standards apply to businesses - contact the Michigan Department of Quality at 1-800-662-9278 for more information.
9. Are there any hidden liabilities? If you are purchasing a business, make sure to obtain proof there are no hidden liabilities.  You may request a copy of the seller's Conditional Tax Clearance Request letter.  You may also want to contact the Unemployment Insurance Agency at 1-800-638-3994 or online www.michigan.gov/uia to obtain information on sucessor liability.
10. Contact the Hillsdale County Building Inspector 517-437-4130 to assure compliance with regulations affecting construction.
11. Check with your city/township or village to see if there is a sign ordinance.
12. Check with your city/township or village to see if you must apply for an occupancy permit.
13. Check with the city/township or village to ensure the property you are purchasing is properly zoned for your type of business.
14. Check with your city/township or village to see if a facade program is available.
15. Call the local utility companies (electric/water/sewer/gas) to sign up for services.
16. Contact your insurance agent (click here for a list of local Chamber member insurance agents) to ensure you have adequate coverage.

For a guide to starting a small business: http://www.gvsu.edu/forms/misbtdc/2007%20Guide%20to%20Starting.pdf