Guides for starting a business

Plain-English guides to starting a business: a launch checklist, startup costs and your break-even point, each with a tool to put it to work.

Business launch checklist: 12 steps from idea to opening dayTwelve steps from testing the idea to opening day, in the order most new owners do them.Pairs with: Free Launch ChecklistHow to estimate your startup costsEvery cost to list, how to price it, and a worked example with a cushion for surprises.Pairs with: Free Budget TrackerHow to calculate your break-even pointThe formula, a worked example, and a calculator for how many sales cover your costs.Pairs with: Break-Even tool (Basic plan)

General information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules differ by state, county, city and industry, so check with your local officials or a professional before you act.