The First 90 Days: What Every New Business Needs

You Filed Your Business. Now What?

Congratulations on filing your business with the Secretary of State. That is a significant step, but it is just the beginning. The first 90 days after formation are critical for setting up the infrastructure your business needs to operate legally, financially, and professionally.

Here is a practical checklist organized by priority and timeline.

Week 1: Legal and Financial Foundations

Get Your EIN

Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. This is free and can be done online at irs.gov. You need an EIN to open a business bank account, hire employees, and file taxes.

Open a Business Bank Account

Separate your personal and business finances immediately. Most banks require your filed Articles of Organization (or Certificate of Formation) and your EIN. Shop around for accounts with no or low monthly fees.

Set Up Your Operating Agreement

If you formed an LLC, draft an operating agreement even if you are a single member. This document defines ownership, management structure, and what happens if you bring on partners later. Many states do not require it, but it protects you legally.

Weeks 2 to 4: Protection and Compliance

Get Business Insurance

At minimum, consider general liability insurance. Depending on your industry, you may also need professional liability (errors and omissions), workers compensation, or commercial property insurance. Insurance agents who specialize in new businesses can help you identify what coverage you need.

Understand Your Tax Obligations

Meet with an accountant who understands your entity type. Key questions to answer:

• What is your tax election (for LLCs: default, S-Corp, or C-Corp)?
• What estimated tax payments do you need to make?
• What business expenses can you deduct?
• Do you need to register for state sales tax?

Register for State and Local Taxes

Depending on your state and business type, you may need to register for sales tax, payroll tax, or other state-specific obligations.

Weeks 4 to 8: Operations and Growth

Set Up Accounting

Choose an accounting system (QuickBooks, Xero, or similar) and start tracking income and expenses from day one. This will save you significant time and money at tax time.

Build Your Online Presence

At minimum, set up a professional website and claim your Google Business Profile. These are often the first things potential customers will find when searching for your business.

Get a Business Phone Number

A dedicated business phone number adds professionalism and keeps your personal number private. VoIP services offer affordable options.

Weeks 8 to 12: Growth Infrastructure

Establish Business Credit

Apply for a business credit card and make sure vendors report to business credit bureaus. Building business credit early makes it easier to access financing later.

Consider Hiring

If you plan to hire employees, you will need to set up payroll, workers compensation insurance, and understand employment laws in your state.

Plan Your Marketing

Identify your target customers and the channels where they spend time. Before spending money on advertising, make sure your website, messaging, and sales process are solid.

Common First-90-Day Mistakes

• Mixing personal and business finances. This can pierce your liability protection. Keep them separate from day one.
• Ignoring taxes until year end. Estimated quarterly payments are usually required. Missing them triggers penalties.
• Skipping insurance. One lawsuit or accident without coverage can wipe out a new business.
• Over-investing in branding before revenue. Focus on getting your first customers before perfecting your logo.

Stay Informed

If you recently filed a business, bookmark NewFilingAlerts to stay current on business formation trends in your state. And if you are a service provider looking to reach new businesses during this critical 90-day window, explore our data and API options.