Are you wondering how to register an online business? Many people have become very successful in setting up and working in an online business, so much so that they are able to leave a regular 9 to 5 job. It can be very rewarding, and it is not difficult at all to get started.

How to Start an Online Business

Starting a business online has very low costs to start. These companies are perfect for anyone wanting to own a business will little cash on hand. You can work from anywhere in the world, set your own schedule, and make a full-time living online.

Online businesses do require compliance, just like any brick and mortar business. Since most online businesses make revenue through the sale of goods and services, the rules for business and taxation apply. This includes getting the necessary business licenses, permits, and approvals for zoning. You will also have to pay if you want to form an LLC or corporation, which will help you protect your personal finances in the event of a lawsuit. Doing so will also help establish credibility for your business.

If this is something you are considering, it is crucial that you carefully research the steps well ahead of your launch date. Getting the necessary credentials can take some time. And aiting too long will delay the launch of your business.

You have many different business structures to choose from. In general, you will have to file a formation document and pay a fee to your state to get started. Your state will then approve or deny your application.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Start an Online Business

1.     Choose your business structure. When you decide to start a business, you need to decide if you want to be a sole proprietor, LLC, or corporation. Most small startups that are run by a single individual or a couple can start out as sole proprietaries. These are the easiest types of business structures to start. They do not require paperwork. The downside to a sole proprietorship, however, is that you have no protection from the liabilities of your business.

LLCs are more flexible than corporations, and you do not have to keep very strict records. A corporation is ideal, however, if you want to gain capital through investments.

Business planning is something that must be done on the regular, not as a one-time effort at the beginning. You should start with a lean business plan, which can be completed in 30 minutes instead of six weeks. It is quick to write, and boils your plan down to the main points.

You also need to figure out if there is a market for what you want to sell. You need to conduct a market and SWOT analysis to ensure there is a customer who wants to purchase your product.

2.     Determine where you want to form the business. You must form your LLC or corporation in the state where you intend to conduct business. This will help you avoid any additional costs of registering it in another state and hiring an agent out of state. If your plan is to eventually go nationwide or if you want venture capital, you may want to think about incorporating in the state of Delaware or Nevada. This is because they are tax-friendly states that are more cost-effective for small businesses.

3.     Choose your business name. You need to make this decision very thoughtfully. Choosing a unique name helps to market your business and will lessen the chance that the name you want will be used elsewhere. Your unique name will also help ensure you get the domain name you want that best matches your business.

4.     Get your domain name. Once you decide on your business name, you need to register your domain. This is particularly important since your business is going to be online. There are a variety of companies that will register your domain. You will need to set up an account, search to see if your name is available, and pay the fee to register it.

If you need help setting up your online business, you can post your legal need on UpCounsel’s marketplace. UpCounsel accepts only the top 5 percent of lawyers to its site. Lawyers on UpCounsel come from law schools such as Harvard Law and Yale Law and average 14 years of legal experience, including work with or on behalf of companies like Google, Menlo Ventures, and Airbnb.