The technicalities of running a small business

Starting and running a business is an exciting time. Small and home businesses give workers the freedom to control their own company while being able to keep their own profits.

Before you start your home or small business, however, it's important to know all of the technicalities. Starting a business involves much more than just making and selling products.

The following are a few of the technical things you will want to be aware of before starting your small or home business as well as while you run it.

Choose your type of business

The legal requirements for your business will vary depending on what type of business you have. Basically, they can be a sole proprietorship, an LLC (limited liability corporation), or a corporation. Once you know this, you can follow the specific laws required for your type of business.

Check with your state and each state you do business in.

Each state has differing laws when it comes to legal requirements for home or small businesses. Each state has a Small Business Administration resource office that will provide you with all of the legal requirements for starting a business. Keep in mind that legally running your business includes not only complying with federal and local laws in the state in which you run your business, but you also must meet laws for every state you do business in. This also includes internet transactions if you mail your product to another state.

Get all necessary licensing

Different businesses require different types of licenses. For example, a restaurant or food cart will require a food handler's permit, health department licensing, and liquor licenses if alcohol is being served. Be aware of licensing for your employees as well; hair stylists or others in the beauty industry must meet certain licenses for their profession, as well as daycare workers.

Get insured

Insurance is a vital part of a business to protect yourself and your assets and employees. The following insurance types are required by law for the majority of business owners:

? Liability. This is to protect you in the event of a lawsuit.
? Property. Property insurance will protect your building, inventory, and other equipment in the event it is damaged or destroyed.
? Auto. Automobile insurance is required if you use company vehicles.
? Home Office. If your business is run out of your home, you will need to update your existing homeowner's insurance policy to include your office equipment and anything else related to your business.

Trademarks and copyrights

If you have a business name and logo you want to trademark and copyright so that no one else can use or copy it, you will also need to look into patent, copyright, and trademark laws to find out what steps are required to obtain a trademark and copyright.

Know labor laws

If you have employees, you will have to comply with labor and minimum wage laws within the country and state. IN addition, you will also need an Employer Identification Number from the IRS, regardless of whether you have employees or not.

There are many technical sides of running a small business, and it's important to be aware of each of them. It's also a good idea to contact the Small Business Administration in your area so you know that you are running your business correctly and legally.