{"id":87668,"date":"2023-06-29T09:54:18","date_gmt":"2023-06-29T16:54:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/honeybook-blog.site.strattic.io\/?p=87668"},"modified":"2023-07-21T11:15:13","modified_gmt":"2023-07-21T18:15:13","slug":"registering-your-business","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/hbb.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/registering-your-business","title":{"rendered":"Guide to registering your business: 6 steps"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><em>Learn about the benefits and nuances of registering your business so you can set yourself up for long-term success.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"793\" src=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/registering-your-business-1024x793.jpg\" alt=\"Person signing documents and registering their business\" class=\"wp-image-87671\" srcset=\"https:\/\/hbb.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/registering-your-business-1024x793.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/hbb.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/registering-your-business-300x232.jpg 300w, https:\/\/hbb.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/registering-your-business-768x594.jpg 768w, https:\/\/hbb.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/registering-your-business-1536x1189.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/hbb.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/registering-your-business.jpg 2000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If you run a small business or are looking to <a href=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/how-to-start-a-business\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">start a business<\/a>, registering your business is a step you may want to take. Though it isn\u2019t necessary for all independent businesses, such as sole proprietors, registering as an entity has many benefits. It can protect your personal assets legally and position you for long-term growth, especially if you want to expand into new markets and hire employees.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Take these six steps to register your business, plus learn about the benefits of registering with your state to become a legal entity.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Jump to:&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"#questions\">Common questions about registering your business<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#name\">Choose your business name<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#structure\">Decide on a business structure<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#location\">Determine where to register your business<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#requirements\">Follow your state requirements for registration<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#IRS\">Register with the IRS for business taxes<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#licenses\">Apply for any business licenses you need<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#foundation\">Lay the right foundation for your independent business<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<a id=\"questions\"><\/a>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Common questions about registering your business<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Before we lay out the steps you need to register your business, let\u2019s answer some of the most common questions. You might be wondering if registering your business is even necessary, or if it comes with any costs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Do you have to register your business?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Your business structure determines whether you need to register your business and how to register your business. A sole proprietorship is when there is no legal distinction between you and your business. This means your assets and liabilities from your business are inseperable from your personal assetts. This is a common arrangement for photographers, virtual assistants, and other service-based independents.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For permits and local business registration requirements, you can look up your state and its specific requirements through the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sba.gov\/business-guide\/launch-your-business\/register-your-business\">Small Business Administration.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What are the benefits of registering your business?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Even if you aren\u2019t required to register your business through your state, there are still benefits of registering. Especially if you operate an independent business, registering ensures that your business is its own entity, which protects you from personal liability in the case of disputes.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Financially, registering your business can also make it easier to access loans and tax benefits, like exemptions and credits.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re interested in growing your business, registering your business is essential for providing employees with benefits, like health insurance, retirement plans, and more.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How much does it cost to register a business?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The costs of <a class=\"wpil_keyword_link\" href=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/registering-your-business\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"registering a business\" data-wpil-keyword-link=\"linked\">registering a business<\/a> all depend on your location and business structure. Registering your business name as well as registering your business entity, can be up to a few hundred dollars depending on taxes. We recommend finding fees on your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.usa.gov\/state-governments\">state\u2019s government website<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You may also need to get specific licenses and permits for your business, which will have different fees depending on the type and location. Additionally, if you retain a business lawyer to handle things like intellectual property, partnership agreements, and trademark research, you\u2019ll need to factor in legal fees as well.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns cta-related-posts is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center left-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<p class=\"related-post-heading\">Related Post<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/how-to-write-a-business-plan\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">How to write a business plan<\/a><\/h4>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/how-to-write-a-business-plan\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"793\" src=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/business-plan-1024x793.jpg\" alt=\"People writing a business plan\" class=\"wp-image-88444\" srcset=\"https:\/\/hbb.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/business-plan-1024x793.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/hbb.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/business-plan-300x232.jpg 300w, https:\/\/hbb.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/business-plan-768x594.jpg 768w, https:\/\/hbb.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/business-plan-1536x1189.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/hbb.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/business-plan.jpg 2000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<a id=\"name\"><\/a>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Choose your business name<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Selecting your business name can take a long time, and that\u2019s because there are several factors to consider.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On one end, you need to consider your brand and choose a name that\u2019s memorable, unique, and easy to use.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Furthermore, you should also consider the searchability of your business name. Does it have the potential to show up in search, or is it already coming up for another site or entity? Also consider if you would be able to use your preferred domain name and social handles.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At the same time, you need to consider the technical aspects of your business name. It should be free for use, meaning another business isn\u2019t using it or has it trademarked. To find out if a name is trademarked or not, check out the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uspto.gov\/trademarks\/search\">USPTO trademark database<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<a id=\"structure\"><\/a>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Decide on a business structure<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>To register your business, you\u2019ll need to determine the business structure you want to use. For most independent business owners, you\u2019ll likely choose from the following:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Limited liability company: <\/strong>A limited liability company (LLC) primarily protects owners from business liability, and they offer more flexibility in management and taxation.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sole proprietorship: <\/strong>A sole proprietorship is very common for independent business owners since it\u2019s an unincorporated business operated by one person. Though the sole owner has full control over the business, that also means that they\u2019re personally liable for the business as well. If you want to use a sole proprietorship for your business, you don\u2019t need to register it.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Franchise: <\/strong>A franchise is best-suited for high-growth independent businesses. In a franchise, an individual or entity can operate a business using the franchisor\u2019s brand and operational systems.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Corporation<\/strong>: Corporations are entities that are completely separate from their owners, giving owners the highest protection from personal liability. For independent owners, corporations also have benefits like the ability to pay yourself a salary. Though corporations offer higher protections, they do come with some of the highest operating costs as well, such as income tax.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>When considering how to structure your business, you want to think about liability, management, taxes, and future plans. Each type of business entity operates under a distinct set of taxation and other rules, so planning ahead by understanding which entity is the best fit for you now and in the future will help set your business up for success.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-ugb-container ugb-container cta-pro-tip ugb-d382562 ugb-container--v2 ugb-container--design-basic ugb-main-block\"><style>.ugb-d382562-wrapper.ugb-container__wrapper{padding-top:0 !important;padding-bottom:0 !important}.ugb-d382562-wrapper > .ugb-container__side{padding-top:35px !important;padding-bottom:35px !important}@media screen and (min-width:768px){.ugb-d382562.ugb-container{padding-top:0px !important}}<\/style><div class=\"ugb-inner-block\"><div class=\"ugb-block-content\"><div class=\"ugb-container__wrapper ugb-d382562-wrapper\"><div class=\"ugb-container__side\"><div class=\"ugb-container__content-wrapper ugb-d382562-content-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-ugb-columns ugb-columns ugb-cc25b0e ugb-columns--design-plain ugb-columns--columns-2 ugb-main-block\"><style>.ugb-cc25b0e > .ugb-inner-block > .ugb-block-content > .ugb-columns__item{grid-template-columns:0.20fr 1.80fr !important}<\/style><div class=\"ugb-inner-block\"><div class=\"ugb-block-content\"><div class=\"ugb-columns__item ugb-cc25b0e-content-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-ugb-column ugb-column ugb-d25b74c ugb-column--design-plain ugb-main-block\"><div class=\"ugb-inner-block\"><div class=\"ugb-block-content\"><div class=\"ugb-column__item ugb-d25b74c-column-wrapper\"><div class=\"ugb-column__content-wrapper\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/asset-4.svg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-83436\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-ugb-column ugb-column ugb-ee414fb ugb-column--design-plain ugb-main-block\"><div class=\"ugb-inner-block\"><div class=\"ugb-block-content\"><div class=\"ugb-column__item ugb-ee414fb-column-wrapper\"><div class=\"ugb-column__content-wrapper\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Pro tip<\/strong> <\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Work with a <a href=\"https:\/\/pros.honeybook.com\/directory-finance-legal?service=legal\">legal expert<\/a> to help ensure you&#8217;re choosing a name that\u2019s legally available and picking the best legal structure for your business type.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<a id=\"location\"><\/a>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Determine where to register your business<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you know which business name and structure you want to use, you need to determine where to register your business. Your business location is easy to determine if you only conduct business in one state\u2013that\u2019s where you\u2019ll need to register.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you operate in multiple states, you\u2019ll want to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.upcounsel.com\/can-you-incorporate-in-multiple-states#:~:text=If%20you%20want%20your%20LLC,completing%20a%20foreign%20LLC%20registration.\">register in your \u201chome\u201d state<\/a> as a domestic entity and registers as a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wolterskluwer.com\/en\/expert-insights\/five-steps-when-doing-business-in-a-new-state\">\u201cforeign\u201d entity<\/a> (also known as a Certificate of Authority) in other states. To do this, you can simply apply in the states where you conduct business. Keep in mind that the names for this document may vary from state to state.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you sell your services online across multiple states, do some research about where the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.upcounsel.com\/best-state-to-incorporate-an-online-business\">best state to register<\/a> is for your business structure. When in doubt, register in the state you live in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<a id=\"requirements\"><\/a>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Follow your state requirements for registration<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Now that you have your business name, structure type, and location, it\u2019s time to move forward with registering your business. You\u2019ll do so with the Secretary of State in your primary business location. Different states require different steps for registering, so it\u2019s important to look up the specifics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In California, for example, you can register either in person or online, and there\u2019s a unique form to use depending on your business entity.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<a id=\"IRS\"><\/a>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Register with the IRS for business taxes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Along with registering your business with your state, you\u2019ll also need to register your business with the IRS so you can pay proper business taxes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To do so, all you need to do is apply for an <a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/businesses\/small-businesses-self-employed\/employer-id-numbers\">employee identification number<\/a> (EIN). If you change your business ownership or structure, you\u2019ll need to apply for a new EIN.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-ugb-container ugb-container cta-pro-tip ugb-0041221 ugb-container--v2 ugb-container--design-basic ugb-main-block\"><style>.ugb-0041221-wrapper.ugb-container__wrapper{padding-top:0 !important;padding-bottom:0 !important}.ugb-0041221-wrapper > .ugb-container__side{padding-top:35px !important;padding-bottom:35px !important}@media screen and (min-width:768px){.ugb-0041221.ugb-container{padding-top:0px !important}}<\/style><div class=\"ugb-inner-block\"><div class=\"ugb-block-content\"><div class=\"ugb-container__wrapper ugb-0041221-wrapper\"><div class=\"ugb-container__side\"><div class=\"ugb-container__content-wrapper ugb-0041221-content-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-ugb-columns ugb-columns ugb-c9eef97 ugb-columns--design-plain ugb-columns--columns-2 ugb-main-block\"><style>.ugb-c9eef97 > .ugb-inner-block > .ugb-block-content > .ugb-columns__item{grid-template-columns:0.20fr 1.80fr !important}<\/style><div class=\"ugb-inner-block\"><div class=\"ugb-block-content\"><div class=\"ugb-columns__item ugb-c9eef97-content-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-ugb-column ugb-column ugb-381f79f ugb-column--design-plain ugb-main-block\"><div class=\"ugb-inner-block\"><div class=\"ugb-block-content\"><div class=\"ugb-column__item ugb-381f79f-column-wrapper\"><div class=\"ugb-column__content-wrapper\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/asset-4.svg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-83436\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-ugb-column ugb-column ugb-97eb796 ugb-column--design-plain ugb-main-block\"><div class=\"ugb-inner-block\"><div class=\"ugb-block-content\"><div class=\"ugb-column__item ugb-97eb796-column-wrapper\"><div class=\"ugb-column__content-wrapper\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Pro tip<\/strong> <\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Having an EIN is essential if you have employees, and it\u2019s required for LLCs, franchises, and all types of corporations. It isn\u2019t required for sole proprietors, but you can still apply for one.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<a id=\"licenses\"><\/a>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Apply for any business licenses you need<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The last step in registering your business is applying for business licenses. As an independent business owner, you may need any of the following:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Professional licenses:<\/strong> These include licenses and certifications for businesses in certain fields, including accounting, hair stylists, insurance agents, real estate agents, and more.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sales tax licenses: <\/strong>If you plan to sell goods, you\u2019ll need a sales tax certificate through your state or locality. Some areas may even require sales tax for some services, so it\u2019s important to look into your area\u2019s specific requirements.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Home-based business licenses: <\/strong>Certain home-based businesses may need licenses to confirm you won\u2019t affect traffic, create noise, or cause any other environmental interruptions. Again, these are specific to your locality and state.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<a id=\"foundation\"><\/a>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Lay the right foundation for your independent business<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When you\u2019re just starting your business, it\u2019s the best opportunity to get set up for long-term success. From <a href=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/resignation-letter-template\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">resigning professionally<\/a> to building your network, there are several steps you can take. Along with registering your business, it\u2019s important to use the right tools to manage your business.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Within a clientflow platform like <a href=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/\">HoneyBook<\/a>, you can manage your entire process of selling and delivering your services, from capturing leads to retaining client relationships. With everything in one place, that means you\u2019ll have data about your financials, lead sources, expenses, and more. As you grow, you can rely on data about your business to make more informed decisions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"aligncenter wp-block-ugb-container ugb-container ugb-6bb1d93 ugb-container--v2 ugb-container--design-basic ugb-main-block\"><style>.ugb-6bb1d93-wrapper.ugb-container__wrapper{border-radius:12px !important;background-image:url(https:\/\/hbbadmin.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Banner-CTA-Background2.jpg)}.ugb-6bb1d93-wrapper.ugb-container__wrapper:before{opacity:0.5}<\/style><div class=\"ugb-inner-block\"><div class=\"ugb-block-content\"><div class=\"ugb-container__wrapper ugb-6bb1d93-wrapper ugb--has-background-overlay\"><div class=\"ugb-container__side\"><div class=\"ugb-container__content-wrapper ugb-6bb1d93-content-wrapper\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><strong>Start your business off successfully with HoneyBook<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Get started with HoneyBook so you can track leads, book clients, and view your financial data in one place. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-ugb-button ugb-button-wrapper ugb-9def6fd ugb-main-block\"><style>.ugb-9def6fd .ugb-button1{background-color:#000000}.ugb-9def6fd .ugb-button1 .ugb-button--inner,.ugb-9def6fd .ugb-button1 svg:not(.ugb-custom-icon){color:#ffffff !important}<\/style><div class=\"ugb-inner-block\"><div class=\"ugb-block-content\"><div class=\"ugb-button-container\"><a class=\"ugb-button1 ugb-button ugb-button--size-normal\" href=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" title=\"\"><span class=\"ugb-button--inner\">Try it for free<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Learn about the benefits and nuances of registering your business so you can set yourself up for long-term success. If you run a small business or are looking to start a business, registering your business is a step you may want to take. Though it isn\u2019t necessary for all independent businesses, such as sole proprietors, [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":705,"featured_media":87671,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[20],"tags":[53,337,369,466],"class_list":["post-87668","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-business-best-practices","tag-business","tag-business-law","tag-growth","tag-legal"],"acf":[],"featured_image_urls_v2":{"full":["https:\/\/hbb.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/registering-your-business.jpg",2000,1548,false],"thumbnail":["https:\/\/hbb.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/registering-your-business-150x150.jpg",150,150,true],"medium":["https:\/\/hbb.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/registering-your-business-300x232.jpg",300,232,true],"medium_large":["https:\/\/hbb.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/registering-your-business-768x594.jpg",768,594,true],"large":["https:\/\/hbb.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/registering-your-business-1024x793.jpg",1024,793,true],"1536x1536":["https:\/\/hbb.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/registering-your-business-1536x1189.jpg",1536,1189,true],"2048x2048":["https:\/\/hbb.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/registering-your-business.jpg",2000,1548,false]},"post_excerpt_stackable_v2":"<p>Learn about the benefits and nuances of registering your business so you can set yourself up for long-term success. If you run a small business or are looking to start a business, registering your business is a step you may want to take. Though it isn\u2019t necessary for all independent businesses, such as sole proprietors, registering as an entity has many benefits. It can protect your personal assets legally and position you for long-term growth, especially if you want to expand into new markets and hire employees.\u00a0 Take these six steps to register your business, plus learn about the benefits&hellip;<\/p>\n","category_list_v2":"<a href=\"https:\/\/hbb.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/category\/business-best-practices\" rel=\"category tag\">Business best practices<\/a>","author_info_v2":{"name":"Claire Bough","url":"https:\/\/hbb.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/author\/claire-bough"},"comments_num_v2":"0 comments","yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v24.1 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>6 Steps to Registering Your Business | HoneyBook<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Use this guide to registering your business and learn about the legal and financial benefits of becoming a legal entity.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, 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