Business Briefs Checklist For Starting A Small Business In Mississippi There are many issues to consider when you are thinking about starting a new business. Once the decision has been made to start a small business, use the following checklist as a guide as you go through the planning process in Mississippi: Request a Mississippi Entrepreneur's Tool Kit from the Mississippi Development Authority (601/359-3593), or access it electronically through the Mississippi State University Extension Service Web site. Request a copy of Mississippi Reporting Requirements for Small Businesses from the Mississippi Development Authority (601/359-3593), or access it electronically through the Mississippi State University Extension Service Web site. Check local zoning regulations with city/county officials. When applicable (such as a home-based business) also check neighborhood covenants. Choose a name (and logo, if desired) for the business. To protect the name and logo in Mississippi, complete an Application To Register a Trade Mark (form F0023), which can be obtained from the Mississippi Secretary of State by calling 601/359-1633 or Online at www.sos.state.ms.us. Federal trademark registrations are handled by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. For additional information and an application form, call the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office at 800/786-9199 or Online at www.uspto.gov. Decide on the form of business ownership (sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation). In order to be incorporated, articles of incorporation must be filed with the Mississippi Secretary of State (601/359-1633 or www.sos.state.ms.us). Register with the Mississippi Secretary of State if the business is a limited liability company (LLC). Obtain a local business permit or privilege license from city/county officials. Obtain any special licenses and permits that some businesses may require. You may need to meet additional regulations, as well (examples: ventures that handle or process food; child care centers). Contact the Mississippi Secretary of State for information at 601/359-1633 or www.sos.state.ms.us. Contact the IRS to obtain a federal employer identification number or EIN (call 800/829-3676 and request FORM SS-4 or go Online at www.irs.gov). An EIN is required for all businesses with one employee or more. Complete a Mississippi Business Registration Application (FORM 70-001-00-1), which can be obtained from the Mississippi State Tax Commission (601/923-7000). Purchase workers' compensation insurance (required if you have five or more employees.) Open a DBA (doing business as) bank account for the business. Check on needed insurance and/or bonding coverage for business. (Note: Many homeowners' policies usually will not cover home-based businesses.) Write a business plan. Secure financing, if needed. Establish prices, fees, and business operation policies. Obtain copies of IRS publication 334 (Tax Guide for Small Business), IRS publication 533 (Self-Employemnt Tax), and if business is home-based IRS publication 587 (Business Use of Your Home) by calling the IRS at 800/829-3676 or electronically at www.irs.gov. Determine record keeping requirements and set up a bookkeeping system. If business is home-based, set up a work area in home and obtain an answering machine and/or a phone line for business. Obtain business cards, stationery, forms, etc. Do advertising and publicity. Start the business! Additional information for Mississippi small businesses may be accessed electronically through the Mississippi State University Extension Service at www.msucares.com/business_assistance/homebusiness/index.html#pubs.

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