This guide outlines simply the steps you need to take to start a business in Delaware.
Correctly starting a business and taking the correct steps, in the beginning is crucial. When you have everything set up correctly, it will help you to avoid problems later on. In fact, the success of your project can hinge on it being done properly so that everything is legal and legitimate.
Every state has different rules on how the process goes to get your business registered and legally able to operate in that state. Delaware is a very popular start to register a business and has its way of doing things.
If you are thinking to start a business in Delaware or are looking to start an LLC in a business-friendly state, then you have to understand what goes into the process. In this article, we will go over the step-by-step process to make it easy for you to plan.
Steps to start a business in Delaware
1 – Research and planning
Wherever you plan to start a business in Delaware, it pays to be prepared beforehand. You’ll want to research the market and have some business goals before you go about registering it.
If it looks like you have a shot at entering the market and being successful, then you can take the next steps to register in Delaware. Once you’ve decided to move forward, you have to then research what your best option is with regards to the type of entity it should be.
For instance, in many cases, it will be beneficial to start as an LLC. In others, it might make more sense to run as a sole proprietor. You can change the entity and structure of the business at any time. However, it is much less of a headache when you choose the right one from the beginning.
2 – Register the business
Before you can register the business, you have to see if there is already a business out there with the name that you have chosen. The first step is to run a Delaware SoS entity search. It’s the Delaware Secretary of State that handles the businesses in the state, so the office has a database to search for your idea.
Once you have found the name is clear, you can register it and get a tax ID number, as well as file the necessary paperwork to form a corporation or LLC, which will determine the legal and tax structure of the business. Make sure to understand Delaware’s laws and regulations to maintain compliance and avoid any penalties to start a business in Delaware.
3 – Get the right licenses
After the business is registered, you must get formal permission from the state of Delaware to operate. This means getting permits and licenses to make it official that you are allowed to start a business in Delaware. If you don’t have the proper permits on time, then it can slow down the process of opening a business and create unnecessary headaches.
You’re required to find out what types of permits are necessary, apply, and then make sure to keep them up to date by renewing them on time. There are also specific regulations that have to be followed for different types of industries.
4 – Open a business bank account
Having a bank account for a business separate from your personal account is very important. You’ll need your business tax ID to get it set up.
Once you have this account, it will be easy to file your taxes and comply with the state’s regulations. Tracking expenses and revenue is also simplified with a business bank account. It’s a good idea to also apply for a credit card for business expenses through the bank that issued your bank account.
5 – Hire employees
Hiring employees requires understanding the labor laws of the federal government as well as the state to start a business in Delaware. There are specific requirements that must be met depending on the industry that your business is in. This includes conducting background checks, verifying work authorization, and offering employee benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.
There are regulations such as equal opportunity compliance and paying for unemployment insurance that has to be met when hiring. It’s important to take these into consideration when coming up with a recruitment plan.
Conclusion
Although there are a lot of steps and things that have to be considered, the steps to start a business in Delaware are fairly straightforward. In fact, Delaware is one of the easiest states to open a business which has attracted many entrepreneurs. With the help of these tips you should be on your way to success.
