What Is the First Step in Starting a Business in Missouri? Starting Your Business in Missouri

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The first step is picking the perfect idea. Find a niche missing from the market that aligns with your values and interests.

Legal and Administrative Steps

With simple online registration processes, setting up your legal structure is quick and easy. Follow our step-by-step guide to register your business in Missouri. When starting a small business in Missouri, the legal entity you choose will have an impact on your taxes, paperwork, personal liability, and your ability to raise funds for your business.

Business Naming

Name your business. In Missouri, businesses cannot share identical or "confusingly similar" names. Before you submit paperwork to the Missouri Secretary of State’s office:

  • Look up existing business entities.
  • Make sure your business name follows naming rules.

Business Registration Steps and Costs

With the 5th-lowest corporate tax rate, starting a business in Missouri is great for entrepreneurs.

Key steps:

  1. Choose a business idea. Take time to explore and research ideas. Consider your interests, skills, resources, availability.
  2. Write a business plan. Outline your business goals and how you’ll achieve them.
  3. Choose a business structure. Common options: LLC, Sole Proprietorship, Corporation.
  4. Register your business. File with the Secretary of State.
  5. Get business licenses and permits.
  6. Open business bank accounts. Keep personal and business assets separate.
  7. Get business insurance. Protect against risks and liabilities.

Business registration fees start at $25. Vary by business type.

Discover essential steps to start a business in Missouri with our guide. Learn about regulations, funding, and resources to launch your venture.

Cost to Start a Small Business in Missouri

If you want to start a business in Missouri, the filing fee for registering an LLC is $50. You will also need to appoint a registered agent for your LLC, which can be any individual or business entity located in Missouri.

Today, Missouri boasts more than half a million small businesses—which amounts to 99.4% of all private enterprises in the state.

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