Steps to starting a business

[DJLImages]

I am in the process of transitioning into turning my love for photography into a business. I am looking for a clear and concise guide to the steps I need to take to ensure I have all the right pieces in place. I have already done the following:
1) acquired an EIN from the IRS
2) begun to draft a business plan
3) begun to start a website with Bludomain

Thanks for your help.

Dan

[Gateruner]

You need to set up a business name with your local county/city. Apply to the State of Texas for a Tax permit. Get seperate business banking accounts. (easier for you and your CPA) Find a good CPA to help you get organized from day one. Design and print a business card, letterhead etc. Get ready to spend alot more than you take in for awhile and when you are doing that try not to allow your business to turn your love for photography into "work".

[rogerfsmith]

Have enough capital to operate for 1 to 2 years with no profit.
Be sure you are aware that most web sites get very little traffic in the beginning due to poor SEO work or no SEO work. So be sure you investigate this area of website design.
Cheers,
Roger

[brad]

Step 1: get your head examined. :)

[Gateruner]

Thats funny Brad. Possibly true but funny.

[DJLImages]

Are there any job-specific licenses that I need to apply for or obtain?

[CaptainTom]

Originally Posted by DJLImages

Are there any job-specific licenses that I need to apply for or obtain?

None that I am aware of. Your bank will require a DBA (usually gotten via your county clerk) in order to open a business checking account. ONce you file for your DBA expect lots of mail soliciting you for credit card machines, etc. Some good, some not so good. If your bank wants to charge an arm and a leg to set up a business account, shop around. There are banks that will get you started for nothing, because they want your commercial business.. consider joing PPA for the insurance availability.

[DJLImages]

Thanks.

[*Mike*]

Then start looking for clients...Right after Christmas the photo biz is in slow months until it kicks up again in early spring. Use that time to learn as much as you possibly can.

[brad]

One of the most important things is getting your sales tax license before you take any money... the state does not like you selling things without one.

A seperate bank account isn't required, but it should be. It makes your accounting a lot easier.

[Gateruner]

Make sure to remember to pay your sales tax on time as the State isnt the best at reminding you. You will have to make sure you know when you are supposed to file as well. Can get confusing when you havent taken in any sales but you still have to file a return either monthly, quarterly or yearly.

[Aric C. Hoek]

Your question reminded me of another post that may help you.