What every path needs, whichever one you pick.

Fourteen checks that apply at every level. Tick them as you go. Nothing is saved, so print the page if you want to keep your place.

The checklist

Before you start Check your lease, homeowners association and local zoning.Some places need a home occupation permit, and some leases don't allow a business at all. Ask your insurer what's covered.Many home and renter's policies don't cover business equipment, stock or customers who visit. Decide how many hours a week you really have.After work, care, rest and everything else. Pick the level that fits that number.

Money Keep every receipt and payment record from day one.A folder or a spreadsheet is enough to start. Open a separate account for it.Even a basic one, so business money doesn't mix with household money. Set part of every payment aside for taxes.If your net earnings from self-employment are $400 or more in a year, you generally have to file a return and pay self-employment tax. Find out whether you'll owe estimated taxes.Nobody takes tax out of freelance pay, so the IRS may expect payments during the year.

Paperwork Check whether you need a business license.Ask your city or county first, then your state. Look up sales tax if you sell physical things.Your state's revenue department can tell you whether you need a permit. Register your business name if it isn't your own name.That's often a simple filing, sometimes called a DBA. Save every tax form a platform sends you.They report what they paid you, so your return should match.

Protecting yourself Get every client arrangement in writing.Even a short email: what you'll do, by when and for how much. Use a separate email address for the work.It keeps scams and sales pitches out of your personal inbox. Never share your bank login.Not with a client, an employer or a platform. Nobody legitimate needs it.

General information, not legal or tax advice. Rules vary by state and city, so check the ones where you live.

Home Business Starter Kit

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Nothing here promises income. We don't list pay, because it depends on your skills, where you live and the platform. General information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Updated September 2026.