jamesglewisf
10-21-2000, 11:51 PM
Before you begin doing business online, here are some things you might want to take care of first:
File a DBA (Doing Business As)
Register your business name at the state or federal level.
Get a tax ID
You need a tax ID for filing tax returns and setting up bank accounts. You'll also need a tax ID for charging sales tax in various jurisdictions.
Get a Post Office Box
Don't use your home address for your business. If you don't have an actual business address, get a PO Box.
Set up a merchant account
You have to get a merchant account before you can accept credit card payments online. Some web-based store services will link you up with a merchant account.
Line up a delivery service
You need make sure you know your shipping costs before setting prices for your products. I recommend establishing a relationship with a shipping company or an order fulfillment company before you go online.
Other services to check out
www.stamps.com
www.paypal.com
www.thereturnexchange.com
File a DBA (Doing Business As)
Register your business name at the state or federal level.
Get a tax ID
You need a tax ID for filing tax returns and setting up bank accounts. You'll also need a tax ID for charging sales tax in various jurisdictions.
Get a Post Office Box
Don't use your home address for your business. If you don't have an actual business address, get a PO Box.
Set up a merchant account
You have to get a merchant account before you can accept credit card payments online. Some web-based store services will link you up with a merchant account.
Line up a delivery service
You need make sure you know your shipping costs before setting prices for your products. I recommend establishing a relationship with a shipping company or an order fulfillment company before you go online.
Other services to check out
www.stamps.com
www.paypal.com
www.thereturnexchange.com