Starting a business

Starting your own business can be exciting and challenging. These resources can help you plan, prepare and launch your new endeavor.

Keep in mind:

Write a detailed business plan
Find an accountant who specializes in your type and size of business; you may also need an attorney
Get an employer identification number, register your business name and decide on the legal structure of your business

Browse resources

Watch

How to raise capital

Learn about capital lending and narrow down your options so you can find the right lenders for your business.

Read

Small business online community

Learn about a community where you can get the industry knowledge you need to help your business grow.

Health savings accounts (HSAs)

Read about a cost-effective way to offer healthcare benefits to your employees.

Neighborhood vendors: How hyper-local businesses stay in business

Local merchants can leverage their position in the neighborhood to gain a decided edge.

Back-to-basics cash flow

Managing cash flow effectively can help you avoid surprises.

How much to ask for when applying for a business loan

Factors to take into account when calculating the ideal business loan amount.

Small business planning

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Merrill, its affiliates, and financial advisors do not provide legal, tax, or accounting advice. You should consult your legal and/or tax advisors before making any financial decisions.

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Investing in securities involves risks, and there is always the potential of losing money when you invest in securities.

Asset allocation, diversification, and rebalancing do not ensure a profit or protect against loss in declining markets.

Merrill, its affiliates, and financial advisors do not provide legal, tax, or accounting advice. You should consult your legal and/or tax advisors before making any financial decisions.

This material is not intended as a recommendation, offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security or investment strategy. Merrill offers a broad range of brokerage, investment advisory (including financial planning) and other services. Additional information is available in our Client Relationship Summary (PDF).

Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (also referred to as "MLPF&S" or "Merrill") makes available certain investment products sponsored, managed, distributed or provided by companies that are affiliates of Bank of America Corporation ("BofA Corp."). MLPF&S is a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, Member Securities Investor Protection (SIPC) popup and a wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of America Corporation ("BofA Corp").

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