PolyWiseSmall business compliance checklist
Updated October 30, 2026
A small business compliance checklist covers six things: register the business, get the licenses and permits for your location and work, register and file for taxes, follow employer rules if you hire, keep your space within zoning and safety rules, and watch for changes to all of these. Most of the work happens when you open, but rules, rates and deadlines change every year, so the last step never ends.
1. Register the business
- Register an LLC or corporation with your Secretary of State, or file an assumed business name if you use one.
- Get an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS if you have employees or are a corporation or partnership. It is free.
- File any yearly report your state requires to keep the business in good standing.
2. Licenses and permits
- A local business license or tax certificate, if your city or county requires one.
- A professional or industry license, if your work is regulated.
- Permits for your space, such as a certificate of occupancy, sign permit, health permit or fire inspection.
- Every expiration date written down, with a reminder before each one.
3. Taxes
- Register with your state revenue department before your first taxable sale, and file sales tax on its schedule.
- Keep your sales tax rate current in your register and online store.
- Put federal and state filing deadlines on your calendar. The IRS publishes a tax calendar for small businesses.
4. If you have employees
- Register for state withholding and unemployment insurance.
- Pay at least the federal, state or local minimum wage, whichever is highest.
- Display the required federal and state workplace posters.
- Get workers’ compensation insurance if your state requires it for your business.
5. Your space
- Confirm your business is allowed at your address under local zoning, including a home business.
- Keep up with fire, health and building inspections for your space.
6. Watch for changes
Every item on this list can change: tax rates, license fees, minimum wage, posters, zoning codes and product rules. The changes are posted on dozens of official sites across your city, county, state and federal agencies. PolyWise puts the ones that apply to your business in one place and sends a short alert when something changes, with a link to the official source.
Official sources
Common questions
What does compliance mean for a small business?
Following the government rules that apply to your business: registrations, licenses, taxes, employment law, zoning, safety and any rules for what you sell. It is not one task but a list that changes as the rules do.
Which workplace posters do I need?
It depends on the laws that cover you. The U.S. Department of Labor lists the federal posters and has an online advisor to find yours, and your state labor department lists the state ones.
How often should I review my compliance?
At least once a year, and whenever you move, hire, add a service or start selling something new. Many state laws start on January 1 or July 1, so those are good times to check.
PolyWise is not a law firm, and this guide is general information, not legal or tax advice. Confirm details with the relevant agency or a professional.