✅ U.S. Small Business Compliance Checklist

Compliance is key to protecting your business from fines, shutdowns, and lawsuits. This checklist covers all major compliance responsibilities for small businesses in the United States.

🗂️ 1. Business Formation & Structure

• Choose a legal structure (LLC, S Corp, C Corp, Sole Proprietor, Partnership)
• File formation documents with your Secretary of State
• Obtain an EIN (Employer Identification Number)
• Draft an Operating Agreement (LLC) or Bylaws (Corp)
• Register a business name/DBA if needed

🏛️ 2. Licenses, Permits, and Zoning

• Research local, state, and federal license requirements
• Apply for a local business license
• Get industry-specific permits (e.g., food, childcare, contracting)
• Obtain a Seller’s Permit if collecting sales tax
• Verify zoning compliance

🧾 3. Federal, State & Local Taxes

• Register with the IRS and state tax agencies
• Set up estimated tax payments (quarterly, if needed)
• Collect and remit sales tax where required
• File required tax forms (1120, 1065, Schedule C, etc.)
• Maintain accurate financial records and receipts

💼 4. Employment & Labor Compliance

• Register with state labor and unemployment departments
• File IRS Form 941 or 944 for payroll taxes
• Display required workplace posters (OSHA, FMLA, etc.)
• Complete and maintain Form I-9s for all employees
• Follow minimum wage and overtime laws (FLSA)
• Secure workers’ compensation insurance

🔐 5. Insurance Compliance

• General liability insurance
• Workers’ compensation (if applicable)
• Industry-specific policies (e.g., professional liability)
• Optional: Cyber liability or data breach insurance

📚 6. Ongoing Compliance & Reporting

• File annual reports with your state
• Renew licenses and permits on time
• Update business info with Secretary of State
• Hold annual meetings and record minutes (LLC/Corp)
• Maintain a Registered Agent in formation state

🔏 7. Website, Privacy, & Data Laws

• Post a Privacy Policy and Terms of Service
• Follow data laws (CCPA, GDPR if applicable)
• Use secure methods to store or transfer user data
• Disclose cookie usage, email practices, etc.

🔁 8. Common Filing Requirements

📦 Industry-Specific Regulations

Make sure to check additional requirements if you're in:

• Food or beverage service (FDA, health permits)
• Childcare or education (background checks, certifications)
• Medical or wellness (HIPAA, medical board licensing)
• Transportation/logistics (DOT regulations)
• Finance or crypto (FinCEN, SEC rules)

✅ Final Tips

• Set calendar reminders for key renewals and filings
• Work with a CPA or legal advisor yearly
• Consider tools like Comply.me to simplify tracking

Need help automating your business compliance process? Explore Comply.me (opens in a new tab) to get started.