Startup Basics

If you want to protect your business's intellectual property, the first step is to register and trademark your brand name. Here's how.

If your business relies of foot traffic, your business's location is crucial to success. Get tips on how to choose the right location for your company.

Does your startup need a business license? Learn which types of business licenses and permits your small business may need and how to acquire them.

Having a business bank account, rather than mingling business finances with personal finances, protects your business and your personal finances.

Business insurance protects your company against financial loss and liability. Learn what business insurance types are best for your industry and needs. 

Find out what business insurance is, the different types of policies, the costs and how to determine what you need.

Learn the differences and similarities between articles of incorporation and operating agreements to determine which is necessary for your startup.

Follow six steps if you opt to become a corporation as your business's legal structure. Learn corporation types and how they differ from other structures.

Many companies start as sole proprietorships. Here's how to make your business into one.

Should you form a corporation? Learn about the types of corporations and the pros and cons of incorporating.

Find out what a surety bond is, the benefits and the role insurance companies play.

Learn the inner workings of e-commerce businesses and how you can run one.

Selling products online is more popular than ever. Here's how you can get started with e-commerce.

Many rules and regulations govern e-commerce. These six, in particular, could significantly impact your small business.

Mission statements reflect your company's goals, purpose and values – why it exists. Learn how to craft the perfect mission statement for your business.

Your payroll schedule determines how many pay periods are in a year. Find out if you should pay your employees weekly, biweekly, semimonthly or monthly.

Creating an invoice is a simple way to bill your customers and keep track of your accounts receivable. Here's what you need to know to create an invoice.

Learn why small businesses are better at customer service than larger enterprises and what bigger ones should do to improve client experiences.

This guide explains the benefits of a business phone number and walks you through the steps to obtain a phone number for your company.

Large businesses depend on small businesses for many things. Learn what influence you have and how to use it to your advantage.