Starting a business? This guide breaks down the essential paperwork into three clear steps—what you need to begin, what comes after you form, and what it takes to stay compliant—so you can launch with
Start a Business Without the Headache
Starting a business is exciting, but figuring out the paperwork can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks it down step-by-step, so you know exactly what you need to launch, stay compliant, and focus on what matters most: starting and growing your business.
The best part? It’s easier than you think—especially when you follow these three simple steps.
New Business Startup Paperwork Checklist
Check to see if your business name is available
Choose your business structure (LLC, Corporation, Nonprofit)
Appoint a Registered Agent
File your formation paperwork
File an Initial Report (if required in your state; usually right after formation)
Get your EIN
Create an Operating Agreement or Bylaws
Apply for business licenses and permits
Optional: File a DBA if you're using a different business name
Ongoing: File Annual Reports and amendments as needed
Step 1: Get Started — What You Need to Form Your Business
Before you can legally form your business, there are a few things you’ll need to have ready. Don’t worry—Swyft Filings can handle most of the paperwork for you. Here’s what comes first:
Check if Your Business Name Is Available (Required)
Every business needs a unique name in its state. Before you file, make sure your name isn’t already taken—otherwise, your application could get delayed or rejected.
Good News: Swyft Filings offers a free tool to help you check your business name availability in seconds.
Choose Your Business Structure (Required)
Your business structure—LLC, Corporation, or Nonprofit—determines how you're taxed and what legal protections you have.
LLCs are great for small businesses and side hustles.
Corporations are best for growth and investors.
Nonprofits are for mission-based organizations.
Not sure which one to choose? Swyft Filings lets you compare and file the right business structure to meet your company's needs.
Appoint a Registered Agent (Required)
The state requires you to name a Registered Agent—someone who can receive legal or government mail for your business.
You can be your own agent, but that means being available during business hours and putting your address on public record.
Many owners choose a professional service for privacy and peace of mind.
Swyft Filings can serve as your Registered Agent in any state.
File Your Formation Paperwork (Required)
This is the legal paperwork that officially forms your business with the state.
LLCs file Articles of Organization.
Corporations and Nonprofits file Articles of Incorporation.
Swyft Filings prepares and submits these documents for you, so you don’t have to deal with confusing forms or state websites.
Step 2: After You File — What Comes Next
Once your business is legally formed, you may need a few more things to operate smoothly and stay compliant.
File an Initial Report (Required in some states)
Some states require a one-time Initial Report shortly after you form your business. It usually includes details like your business name, address, Registered Agent, and owners or members. Filing deadlines can be tight—sometimes due within days of formation—so it’s important to check your state’s rules.
Swyft Filings can help you file your Initial Report on time and avoid penalties.
Get Your EIN (Highly Recommended)
An EIN, or Employer Identification Number, is like a Social Security number for your business. It’s required or strongly recommended for most formal business activities, including:
Hiring employees
Filing business taxes
Applying for business licenses
Even if you’re a single-member LLC, an EIN helps protect your identity and keeps your personal and business finances separate.
Create an Operating Agreement or Bylaws (Highly Recommended)
These internal documents explain how your business is managed, such as how decisions are made, how profits are shared, and what happens if someone leaves the business.
LLCs use Operating Agreements
Corporations and Nonprofits use Bylaws
Some states don’t require them, but they’re smart to have, especially if you have partners.
Apply for a Seller’s Permit (If you sell taxable goods or services)
If your business sells products or certain services, you may need a seller’s permit to collect and pay sales tax. Requirements vary by state, but Swyft Filings can help you get the permit you need.
Get Business Licenses & Permits (Usually Required)
Most states, cities, and counties require a general business license to run your business—even for home-based or online businesses. You may also need specific permits depending on your industry's needs.
Swyft Filings can help you determine which business licenses or permits you need for your new business.
Optional: File a DBA
If you plan to operate under a different name than your legal business name, you’ll need to file a Doing Business As (DBA) name.
Example: Your legal name is “Coastal Coffee LLC,” but you want to operate as “Beachside Brews.”
Optional: Consider an S Corp Election
LLCs and Corporations can choose to be taxed as an S Corporation, which may help reduce self-employment taxes. This isn’t required, but it could save you money depending on your income.
Step 3: Stay Compliant — Ongoing Requirements
Forming your business is a huge milestone. But staying in good standing is what keeps you protected and operational.
Here’s what to keep up with:
File Your Annual Report (Required in most states)
Many states require businesses to file an Annual Report to confirm details like your business name, address, and ownership. Some states only require this every two years (biennially), and a few don’t require it at all.
Missing a required report can result in late fees—or even administrative dissolution.
Swyft Filings can help you understand your state’s requirements and file your Annual Report on time to keep your business in good standing.
Stay Up to Date When Things Change (Ongoing)
As your business grows, things may change—and when they do, you’ll need to keep your paperwork current. This can include:
Updating your business name or address
Ownership or business structure
Renewing licenses, permits, or Registered Agent services
Some changes require filing a formal amendment with the state. Others involve renewing existing documents. Either way, Swyft Filings can help you stay compliant and avoid missed deadlines.
We’ll Handle the Paperwork — So You Can Focus on Your Business
Starting and running a business comes with a checklist, but you don’t have to check every box alone. Swyft Filings helps you form your business, stay compliant, and grow with confidence.