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Business Formation Wizard

Sign in to your EWEPIP account to start building your business structure.

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Business Wizard

What's Your Vision?

Let EWE help you build the right business structure

Just an idea
I'm exploring options and figuring out what's possible
Side hustle
I'm doing this part-time alongside my day job
Going full-time
Ready to make it official and commit 100%
Already operating
Need to formalize my business structure
Growing team
Adding employees, need proper structure and compliance

Choose Your Entity Type

Select the structure that fits your goals. Look for the EWE recommendation.

Sole Proprietorship

Simplest, no filing needed
Pros
No formation cost, simple taxes (Schedule C), full control
Cons
Personal liability, harder to get funding
Best for: Freelancers, solo service providers, testing ideas
Cost: Free (just a business license)

LLC (Limited Liability Company)

Most popular for small business
Pros
Liability protection, flexible taxes, credibility
Cons
Annual fees vary by state, some paperwork
Best for: Most small businesses, consultants, online stores
Cost: $50-$500 (varies by state)

S-Corporation

Tax advantages for profitable businesses
Pros
Save on self-employment tax, liability protection
Cons
Must pay yourself "reasonable salary", more paperwork, restrictions
Best for: Businesses earning $50K+ profit, want tax savings
Cost: $100-$800 + ongoing compliance

C-Corporation

Built for growth and investors
Pros
Unlimited shareholders, attract investors, stock options
Cons
Double taxation, complex compliance, expensive
Best for: Startups seeking investment, going public eventually
Cost: $100-$800 + significant ongoing costs

Nonprofit

Mission-driven organization
Pros
Tax exempt, grants eligible, donor deductions
Cons
No profit distribution, strict governance, IRS scrutiny
Best for: Charitable, educational, religious organizations
Cost: $400-$850 (state + IRS Form 1023)

Your State & Details

Where you form your business matters for fees and taxes.

Filing Fee--
Annual Report--
Tax Notes--

Document Checklist

Everything you need to file and organize. Check items off as you complete them.

EIN & Next Steps

The essential registrations and accounts to get running.

📄 Employer Identification Number (EIN)

Your business's tax ID number. Apply online at IRS.gov for free. It takes about 5 minutes and you get your EIN immediately. Available Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. ET.

Apply on IRS.gov →
Format: 2 digits, dash, 7 digits. Stored locally only.

👥 Registered Agent

A registered agent receives legal documents and official mail on behalf of your business. Most states require one for LLCs and corporations.

Be Your Own Agent

Free, but your address becomes public record. Must be available during business hours.

Use a Service

$50-$300/year. Privacy, reliability, and mail forwarding included.

🏦 Business Bank Account

Separate personal and business finances from day one. This protects your liability shield and makes taxes far simpler.

You'll need: EIN, formation documents (Articles of Organization / Incorporation), business license, and photo ID.

Tip: Many online banks offer free business checking with no minimums.

Launch Your Business on EWEPIP

Here's your formation summary and the tools to get you going.

Your Business Summary

Your EWEPIP Toolkit

Everything you need to run your business, all in one place.

Ask EWE about your business
Hi! I'm EWE. Ask me anything about forming your business, choosing an entity type, state requirements, or next steps.