Opening a business in Texas can be a very exciting opportunity for entrepreneurs. However, there are many steps to take before making this kind of major investment. The preparation taken before a business opens can make a big difference in the short- and long-term success of the company. The first step is to create a solid business plan. A plan should describe what a business does and how it’s different from the competition. It should also describe the market, structure and financial projections.

The next step is to register the company with the applicable regulators. There are several different ways to do this, including registering as a sole proprietorship or establishing a limited liability corporation. If the company plans on having employees, it will need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service. That will enable the business to pay the taxes it owes to both the state and federal government.

Once a business gets up and running, having a system in place to manage the flow of revenue and expenses is crucial. That’s why setting up an accounting system is vital in the early stages of starting a business. There are many accounting options, including various software and point-of-sale systems. The business should also have its own bank account. Mixing personal and business accounts is a big mistake that can be very costly in the future.

Individuals and groups thinking about opening a company may want to consult with a business law professional to ensure they are minimizing risk and increasing the chance of success. Legal counsel can file the proper documents for forming a corporation or proprietorship and help implement accounting systems that satisfy regulatory and compliance requirements.