Klaro

Klaro resource hub

Thinking about starting a business? Start here.

Plain-language guides for anyone doing this alone — no jargon, no sales pitch.

Some links here are affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend things we'd suggest to a friend, and label every one.

1

Are you actually ready to start?

You do not need every answer before you begin. A simple readiness check can help you see what is clear, what needs research, and what can wait.

Free tool

Readiness Check

See where you stand before you commit time or money.

Readiness Check
2

Choosing your business structure

An LLC can separate your business and personal finances. An S-Corp is a tax election some businesses use. A DBA is a registered business name, and a sole proprietorship is a business run by one person without a separate legal entity. These are definitions, not a recommendation — a real accountant or attorney conversation is worth having before you decide.

Recommended — affiliate link

ZenBusiness

A formation service for getting a business set up.

Affiliate link: Klaro may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

ZenBusiness
4

Do you actually need business insurance?

General liability can help with claims involving injury or property damage. Professional liability can help when a client says your advice or service caused a financial loss. The right coverage depends on the work you do.

Recommended — affiliate link

Thimble

Flexible business insurance options for small businesses.

Affiliate link: Klaro may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Thimble
5

Pricing your work without guessing

A gut-check price can feel safer than doing the math, but your rate has to cover your time, expenses, and goals. Compare it against what your market will realistically bear.

Free tool

Pricing Calculator

Build a practical starting price from your actual numbers.

Pricing Calculator
6

Getting your money basics in order

Keep a separate bank account for business money, track what comes in and goes out, and set aside money for taxes as you earn it. Bookkeeping tools like QuickBooks and FreshBooks can help you keep the routine manageable.

Free tool

Guided Map

Map the first steps of your business in one place.

Guided Map
7

Free & official resources worth knowing about

Start with the sources that are built to help small businesses without selling you a shortcut.

  • SBA

    Practical federal small-business guidance.

  • SCORE

    Free 1:1 mentorship from experienced business volunteers.

  • SBDC

    Free consulting through local Small Business Development Centers.

  • BBB

    Business resources and consumer trust information.

  • EIN application

    Apply through the IRS for free in roughly 5–10 minutes — no need to pay a formation service for this.

Want the tools, not just the reading?

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