Small Business Guides

Free, plain-language articles on forming your LLC, registering a DBA, and staying compliant — from the author of the LLC & DBA Formation Workbook.

LLC Formation

How to Form an LLC — Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Everything you need to form a legitimate LLC, from choosing your name to creating your compliance schedule.

12 min readMay 2026
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DBA Registration

What Is a DBA and Do You Actually Need One?

A clear explanation of Doing Business As names — what they are, when to register one, and how much it costs.

8 min readMay 2026
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Business Structure

LLC vs. Sole Proprietorship — Which Is Right for You?

An honest comparison of both structures so you can make an informed decision before you file anything.

9 min readMay 2026
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Registered Agent

What Is a Registered Agent? Requirements & Options Explained

What registered agents do, whether you can be your own, and how to choose a service without overpaying.

7 min readMay 2026
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Tax ID

How to Get an EIN for Free — Direct from IRS.gov

Your EIN takes 10 minutes and costs nothing. Here's how to apply correctly and avoid third-party scams.

6 min readMay 2026
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Federal Compliance

FinCEN BOI Report Guide (2026) — What Every LLC Owner Must Know

The federal beneficial ownership report most new LLC guides miss. What it is, who must file, and how to do it free.

10 min readMay 2026
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Annual Compliance

LLC Annual Compliance Checklist — Stay in Good Standing Every Year

The recurring tasks every LLC owner must complete to stay legally active — with a free calendar tool.

8 min readMay 2026
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Banking

How to Open a Business Bank Account for Your LLC

What you need to bring, which banks to consider, and why this step is non-negotiable for LLC protection.

7 min readMay 2026
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