So—you’ve got a product you’re proud of, orders are rolling in, and you’re thinking, “Okay… I guess this is a real business now.” First off, YES—it totally is. Second, it’s time to make it official.
Whether you’re selling shirts, tumblers, stickers, DTF transfers, sublimation prints, or something totally unique, registering your business is the foundation for growing confidently (and legally). This guide breaks it down step by step—no boring jargon, no gatekeeping.
Why Registering Your Business Is a Game-Changer 🤔
Look, we get it. Registering your biz might not feel exciting, but it’s one of the smartest moves you can make.
Here’s why it matters:
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Protect your personal assets – No one wants to lose their car or savings over a business oops.
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Make tax time easier – Plus, you unlock write-offs and legit deductions.
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Look pro AF – Vendors, customers, and even banks take you seriously.
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Open biz accounts & get funding – Because mixing biz and personal money is a recipe for chaos.
What Type of Business Should You Register As? 🏛️
Different business types = different levels of protection, flexibility, and paperwork. Here's a quick overview:
| Structure | Good For | Protects You? | Tax Perks | Setup Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sole Proprietor | Beginners, low-risk businesses | ❌ Nope | ✅ Some | ✅ Easy |
| LLC | Most small business owners | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Moderate |
| S-Corp | Growing biz w/ employees | ✅ Yes | ✅ Extra | ❌ More Complex |
| C-Corp | Businesses seeking investors | ✅ Yes | ✅ Most | ❌ Most Complex |
⭐ Pro Tip: Most solopreneurs start with either a Sole Proprietorship (super easy) or an LLC (extra protection).
How to Register as a Sole Proprietor 📝
If you’re flying solo and keeping things simple, a sole proprietorship might be the way to go. It’s the easiest setup, but you do take on full personal liability.
Here’s how to get rolling:
1️⃣ Pick a name (check if it’s available in your state by checking the state registry)
2️⃣ File a DBA (Doing Business As) if you're not using your own name. Make sure to check your states Secretary of State website
3️⃣ Apply for an EIN (optional, but recommended) Get it here at the IRS WEBSITE
4️⃣ Look into local licenses/permits Some states, towns, cities or parishes require business license and/or sales tax permits. Check your states business website
5️⃣ Open a business bank account (seriously—do it)
⭐ Pro Tip: This is great for testing the waters, but if you plan to scale—go LLC.
Setting Up an LLC (Limited Liability Company) 🧾
LLCs are kind of the sweet spot—easy to manage, but they protect your personal assets if anything ever goes sideways.
Here’s your to-do list:
1️⃣ Choose a business name and check availability with your state
2️⃣ File Articles of Organization with your state’s Secretary of State, fees are involved.
3️⃣ Grab your EIN (totally free at IRS.gov)
4️⃣ Create an Operating Agreement (required in some states)
5️⃣ Look into permits, licenses, and tax registrations
6️⃣ Open that biz bank account—you’ll thank yourself later
⭐ Pro Tip: Services like LegalZoom and Incfile can walk you through it (if you want to skip the stress).
What About S-Corps & C-Corps? 📈
Most small businesses don’t need these (yet), but here’s the gist:
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S-Corp: Best if you’re paying yourself through payroll and want to save on self-employment taxes.
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C-Corp: More structure, more rules, and better for companies bringing in investors or planning to go BIG.
⭐ Pro Tip: Unless you're hiring or pitching to investors, LLC usually makes the most sense.
Don’t Forget the Permits & Licenses 📜
Depending on where you live and what you sell, you might need some of the following:
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Sales tax license – If you sell physical products in a state that collects sales tax. You can apply thru your states tax office or I personally love Taxjar.
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Home-based biz permit – Especially in certain cities
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Resale certificate – To buy supplies without paying sales tax
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Health or safety permits – For skincare, food, etc.
⭐ Pro Tip: Your state’s business website will list exactly what you need—bookmark it!
Once You’re Registered—Handle Your Finances 💳
The goal is to treat your biz like a real business from day one. That means:
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Open a business bank account – Separate from your personal money
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Use accounting software – QuickBooks, Wave, or even a spreadsheet. Google Sheets are perfect!
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Save for taxes – Aim to set aside 25–30% of income
⭐ Pro Tip: Separating your money = cleaner books, easier taxes, and fewer headaches.
Wrap-Up: Go Legit & Set Yourself Up for Success 🚀
This whole “starting a business” thing is a learning curve—but registering your business is the first power move you’ll make on the road to real growth.
Here’s your cheat sheet:
✅ Sole Prop = Easy but no protection
✅ LLC = Best combo of simple + safe
✅ Get the licenses you need
✅ Open business accounts & stay organized
Got questions or feeling stuck? Drop a comment below—let’s figure it out together. You’re not in this alone!