To start a business, your first step is to choose what form it will legally take. In order to avoid personal liability, you may wish to establish something beyond a sole proprietorship. There are a variety of business forms to choose from, the most common being a corporation or a limited liability company.
Depending on the nature of your business, and your state's laws, you will need a special business license beyond mere incorporation to sell goods or services over the Internet. All businesses are required to register with the state and federal government for tax purposes, even if they are being operated out of the owner's home.

• Business licenses
• Occupational and professional licenses
• Licenses based on products sold