Free Legal Checklist

Choose a business structure (LLC, corporation, etc.)

Register your business name.

Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN)

File articles of incorporation or organization

Create and approve operating agreements or bylaws.

Register for state and local taxes.

Apply for necessary licenses and permits.

Draft and review contracts for vendors and clients

Develop employee agreements and offer letters.

Create a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) template.

Implement service-level agreements (SLAs)

Review lease or property agreements.

Document partnership or shareholder agreements

Stay up-to-date on federal, state, and local regulations

Maintain records of board meetings and resolutions.

Ensure compliance with industry-specific standards.

Verify adherence to health and safety regulations.

Conduct annual audits for tax compliance.

Renew business licenses and permits.

Register trademarks for business names, logos, or slogans

Secure patents for unique inventions

Register copyrights for written or creative works.

Review terms of use and privacy policies for the website.

Ensure proper licensing for software or third-party IP

Develop an employee handbook with workplace policies

Verify compliance with wage and hour laws.

Confirm adherence to anti-discrimination laws.

Document employee training and certifications

Maintain accurate employee records.

Establish procedures for handling workplace disputes.

Set up a system for bookkeeping and financial tracking

File quarterly and annual tax returns.

Reconcile bank accounts regularly.

Maintain records of expenses and receipts.

Ensure proper classification of independent contractors.

Consult with a tax professional for deductions.

Obtain adequate business insurance coverage

Review liability waivers and disclaimers.

Develop a crisis management plan.

Perform regular risk assessments for operations.

Ensure cybersecurity measures are in place.

Establish data breach response protocols.

Conduct annual legal compliance reviews

Update contracts and agreements as needed

Monitor changes in relevant laws and regulations.

Reassess intellectual property protections.

Ensure all licenses and certifications are current.

Consult with legal counsel for major business decisions.