Documentation
Browse every guide. Use search or pick a cluster to narrow down.
EIN
- 3 min read
What is an EIN?
An EIN is a free 9-digit tax ID from the IRS — required for business bank accounts, payroll, and taxes. Here's what it is and how to get one.
- 3 min read
Who needs an EIN?
Not every small business is required to have an EIN — but most benefit from one. Find out if you need one and how getting one protects your SSN.
- 6 min read
EIN Application Preparation Checklist (Business Tax ID)
Everything you need before applying for an EIN: legal name, business structure, responsible party, and state info. Prepare in 5 minutes, apply in 10.
- 4 min read
Common EIN mistakes to avoid
The most common EIN application errors that cause rejections or delays — and exactly what to do instead before submitting to the IRS.
ITIN
- 3 min read
What is an ITIN?
An ITIN lets non-US citizens file federal taxes and open US accounts without a Social Security Number. Plain-English explanation of what it is and who needs one.
- 3 min read
Who needs an ITIN?
Non-residents, immigrants, and foreign nationals filing US taxes often need an ITIN. Find out who qualifies and whether it's the right tax ID for your situation.
- 6 min read
ITIN Application Checklist (Individual Tax ID)
A step-by-step checklist of documents needed for IRS Form W-7 — the ITIN application — including accepted ID types, where to mail it, and what to expect.
- 3 min read
ITIN vs EIN: what's the difference?
ITIN is for individuals who can't get an SSN. EIN is for businesses. A clear side-by-side comparison so you know exactly which tax ID applies to you.
Business Setup
- 5 min read
How do I register a small business?
The correct order to legally register a small business in the US: structure, state filing, EIN, bank account, and licenses — step by step, in plain English.
- 4 min read
Required startup documents for a small business
The formation documents, tax IDs, licenses, and financial records every small business needs on file from day one — with a printable checklist.
- 4 min read
Basic compliance checklist for small businesses
Annual reports, license renewals, payroll filings, and tax deadlines — the recurring compliance requirements small businesses must track to stay in good standing.
- 5 min read
Tax Setup Document Organizer (Personal & Business)
A clean checklist to help you gather and organize the documents you'll typically need for personal and business tax setup.
- 5 min read
LLC vs sole proprietorship: which is right for your small business?
A plain-English comparison of the two most common small business structures — what each one means, costs, and when to choose one over the other.
- 4 min read
What is a DBA (doing business as) and do you need one?
A clear explanation of trade names, assumed names, and DBAs — what they are, when you need one, and how to file.
Financial Systems
- 6 min read
How do I track business expenses?
A simple expense tracking system for small business owners — what categories to use, where to keep records, and how to make tax time far less painful.
- 4 min read
What is a profit and loss statement?
A P&L shows your revenue, expenses, and net profit for a period. Learn what every line means, how to read one, and how to run it for your small business.
- 4 min read
Cash flow basics for small businesses
Cash flow is not the same as profit — and the gap is why businesses fail. Learn how to track timing, invoice faster, and keep enough cash on hand.
- 4 min read
How to open a business bank account
What you need, where to go, and why separating your business and personal finances from day one saves significant time and money.
- 6 min read
Self-employed tax deductions: what small business owners can write off
A plain-English list of the most common and valuable tax deductions available to self-employed individuals and small business owners.
- 5 min read
Quarterly estimated taxes for small businesses
How self-employed individuals and small business owners pay taxes during the year — and how to avoid underpayment penalties.
- 3 min read
What is a W-9 form and when do you need one?
A plain-English explanation of IRS Form W-9 — what it is, who fills it out, who requests it, and when it's required.
- 4 min read
Business mileage deduction: how to track and claim it
How the IRS business mileage deduction works, what counts as a deductible trip, and the simplest way to keep a compliant mileage log.
Money & Profit
Sales & Clients
- 7 min read
A Basic Client Follow-Up System to Avoid Lost Sales
Most lost sales aren't lost — they're forgotten. A simple follow-up system so no opportunity slips through.
- 5 min read
How to write a business invoice that gets paid faster
What to include on a professional invoice, how to structure it, and practical steps that reduce the time between sending and getting paid.
Marketing & Growth
- 5 min read
How to get your first 10 customers
Your first 10 customers almost never come from ads or social media. A practical, no-budget plan using direct outreach to the people and communities you already know.
- 5 min read
Free marketing channels for a new small business
The free, sustainable marketing channels that actually work for small businesses without a budget or marketing team.
- 4 min read
How to write an offer people actually respond to
Most offers fail because they're vague. This framework shows you how to write a clear, specific offer that converts real conversations into paying customers.
- 4 min read
Word of mouth — how to build a referral system for free
Word of mouth doesn't need to stay random. A simple referral system turns your best customers into a steady source of new ones.
- 4 min read
Simple social media for small businesses with no budget
A no-budget social media plan that takes 30 minutes a week and works without ads, agencies, or daily posting.
- 5 min read
How to price your services (and stop undercharging)
Stop guessing on price. A practical method for calculating what to charge based on real costs, market rate, and client value — so you stop leaving money on the table.