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Setting Up an LLC and Fictitious Name

Published: Published: | By Author Christine Kriz

 

Registering an LLC (Limited Liability Company) in Virginia and obtaining a fictitious name, also known as a trade name or a Doing Business As (DBA) name, involves several steps. You must renew your LLC license each year with the Virginia SCC. Following is a general guide to help you through the process for registering online.  Should you have any questions please reach out to the Laurel Ridge SBDC office at 540-868-7094 or mailto:email [email protected]

  • Choose a Name for Your LLC:
  • Register Your LLC with the Virginia SCC:
    • You will need to set up an account on the Virginia SCC website (https://cis.scc.virginia.gov/). Once your account is set up, please login.
    • Once logged in please select “Online Services.”
    • Select “New Businesses” from menu list.
    • Click on arrow next to “Business Entity Type” and click on “Limited Liability Corporation.”
    • Click on the arrow next to Filing Type and choose “Articles of Organization” then click continue.
    • You must choose the name for you LLC. Your LLC’s name must be unique and distinguishable from existing businesses registered in Virginia. In the space next to “Entity Name” type in your desired name and hit enter.
      1. If the message you get says that “name is not distinguishable,” you must choose a different name.
      2. If the message you get states “name not allowable,” you must type a comma after the name and add LLC.

Once you get a message that states “name is allowable”, please click on “Next” in the bottom right corner.

  • On the Articles of Organization page, please enter the contact information requested, selecting “perpetual” for time period and hit next in the bottom right of screen.

 

  • Designate a Registered Agent:
    • You will need to designate a registered agent for your LLC in Virginia. A registered agent is responsible for receiving legal documents and official mail on behalf of the LLC.
    • In Virginia, a registered agent can be any one of the following:
      1. An individual who is a resident of the Commonwealth and is (i) a member or manager of the limited liability company,
      2. a member or manager of a limited liability company that is a member or manager of the limited liability company,
      3. an officer or director of a corporation that is a member or manager of the limited liability company,
      4. a general partner of a general or limited partnership that is a member or manager of the limited liability company,
      5. a trustee of a trust that is a member or manager of the limited liability company, or
      6. a member of the Virginia State Bar, and whose business office is identical with the registered office.
    • On the registered agent screen, type in the contact information of your registered agent and click on “Create Individual RA”
      1. On RA capacity select appropriate title from pull down menu. Most will be “Member or Manager of LLC.” Once all contact information is entered, click on “Done”  On the next page you must check the box to select that the registered agent is a resident of Virginia.  When complete with appropriate information select “Next” at bottom right of screen.
    • On the Principle Office Location page enter the information of your company office. This is the official location for mail to be delivered. When complete hit “next” at bottom right of page.
    • On the Principle information page, most LLCs will be member managed. Select appropriate and click next at bottom right of page.
    • On the Supporting Documentation page, you may not be required to upload additional information. Please click “next” at bottom right of page.
    • On the Signatures page please type in appropriate information and hit “add” and then scroll down to select “next” at bottom right of page.
    • Review the information on the Articles of Organization page and then select “Add to shopping cart” at bottom right of page.
    • The fee as of October 2023, is $100. Select “checkout” and pay fee online. After you have paid the fee, you will want to print and download your Articles of Organization.
  • Get an Employer Identification Number (EIN):
  • Create an Operating Agreement (Optional):
    • Although not required by Virginia law, it is a good practice to create an operating agreement for your LLC. This document outlines the internal management and operating procedures of your LLC. Should you need an Operating Agreement template to help you get started, please reach out to your local SBDC.
  • Comply with State and Local Business Licenses and Permits:
    • Depending on your business type and location, you may need additional licenses and permits. Check with your local government and the Virginia Department of Taxation to ensure compliance.
  • File Annual Reports:
    • LLCs in Virginia are required to file an annual report with the State Corporation Commission. This report typically includes updated contact information and is due by the anniversary date of your LLC’s formation.
  • Pay Taxes:
    • Ensure you understand your tax obligations, including state and federal taxes. You may also need to register for Virginia state sales tax if applicable to your business.
  • Maintain Records:
    • Keep accurate records of all business activities, financial transactions, and legal documents related to your LLC.

It is advisable to consult with a business attorney or an SBDC that specializes in business formation to ensure you complete all the necessary steps correctly and efficiently. Additionally, specific requirements and fees may change over time, so it is essential to check the most up-to-date information on the Virginia SCC website and consult with local authorities when registering.

 

What is a Fictitious Name?

Published: Published: | By Author Christine Kriz

Sole proprietors in Virginia who want to operate their business under a name other than their own legal name need to understand the requirements and process for using a fictitious name, also known as a “trade name” or “doing business as” (DBA) name. Here are some key points for sole proprietors to know about fictitious names in Virginia:

  1. Registration Requirement:
    • In Virginia, sole proprietors must register their fictitious name with the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC) before using it for business purposes. This is done to provide transparency to consumers and protect the public from fraud.
  2. Business Entity Type:
    • Fictitious names are typically associated with sole proprietorships, partnerships, or LLCs, as they allow these business structures to operate under a name that is different from the owner’s legal name.
  3. Name Availability:
    • Before registering a fictitious name, sole proprietors should check the SCC’s online database to ensure that the desired name is available and not already in use by another business entity.
  4. Registration Process:
    • To register a fictitious name, sole proprietors must complete and submit the “Fictitious Name Certificate” (Form CN-01) to the SCC. This form can be filed online or by mail. There is a filing fee associated with this registration.
  5. Registration Renewal:
    • Fictitious name registrations in Virginia are valid for five years. Sole proprietors must renew their fictitious name registration with the SCC within 60 days prior to the expiration date. Failure to renew can result in the name becoming available for others to use.
  6. Business Bank Account:
    • Once the fictitious name is registered, sole proprietors can open a business bank account under that name. This is important for separating personal and business finances.
  7. Legal Protections:
    • Registering a fictitious name does not provide legal protection for the name itself. If you want exclusive rights to the name, you may need to consider trademark registration with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
  8. Business Licenses and Permits:
    • Depending on the type of business you operate, you may need to obtain specific licenses or permits from local or state authorities in addition to registering the fictitious name.
  9. Compliance:
    • Sole proprietors using a fictitious name must comply with all applicable state and local laws and regulations related to their business activities.
  • Public Disclosure:
    • Information about the registered fictitious name, including the owner’s name and address, is publicly available through the SCC’s database.

It’s essential for sole proprietors in Virginia to follow the proper registration process for their fictitious name to ensure legal compliance and establish a distinct business identity. Consulting with a legal or Laurel Ridge SBDC professional can help navigate the registration process and understand any specific requirements related to your business activities.

 

 

Power Up Your Business Conference

Published: Published: | By Author Jeff Nicely

Are you ready to take your small business to new heights of success? Join us on October 20, 2023, at the Power Up Your Business Conference, where an extraordinary opportunity awaits you.

Why Attend?

✨ Diverse Learning Opportunities: With over 20 engaging breakout sessions, we’ve tailored our conference to address the most pressing challenges faced by small business owners. Whether you’re interested in government contracts, securing tourism grants, financial strategies, or starting a small business from scratch, we’ve got you covered.

🚀 Main Session with Tammy Bjelland: The dynamic Tammy Bjelland will headline the event, sharing invaluable insights on making your business more efficient. Her custom business tools and expertise is a game-changer for any small business owner.

🎥 Recording Access: Can’t make it to every session? No worries! We’ll be recording all the breakout sessions, ensuring you have access to this wealth of knowledge even after the conference.

🌟 Special Tracks: Explore tracks on social media, hiring and retaining talent, and more. Gain insights from seasoned local business owners and experts Bill and Sandy Long, Patti Sollenberger, Patrick Barker, Jenna Finch, Vanessa Santiago, Michelle Brown and Justin Kerns.

🍳 Complimentary Meals: Enjoy a day filled with learning and networking, with breakfast, lunch, and snacks included in your registration.

This isn’t just another conference; it’s the small business event of the year. Don’t miss your chance to elevate your business and connect with fellow business owners. Secure your spot today and let’s power up your business together! 💼🌟 

Register here.

Listen in as our director Christine Kriz shares the details about our Power Up Your Business Conference.  We look forward to seeing you at the conference!

 
 
 
 

Successfully Hiring and Retaining Great Team Members

Published: Published: | By Author Jeff Nicely

In the world of small business, where challenges abound, Bill and Sandy Long, the vision and passion behind the Auto Care Clinic in Front Royal, VA, stand as shining examples of how to build a thriving business. Their journey is marked by a few key principles that have propelled them to success and can do the same for you.

Watch as their team shares insights into what makes them successful.

 

Motivating Employees: Bill and Sandy understand that motivated employees are the heart of any successful business. They’ve cultivated a work environment where their team members feel valued and inspired to excel, creating a workplace that radiates positivity.

Continuous Learning: In an ever-evolving industry, Bill and Sandy have made continuous learning a cornerstone of their success. They seek opportunities to expand their knowledge and ensure that their team is always ahead of the curve.

Problem-Solving Prowess: Instead of just identifying problems, Bill and Sandy actively engage with their team to find innovative solutions. This collaborative approach has fostered a culture of creativity, resilience and ownership.  Their employees are proud to be part of the team.

Leadership, Not Supervision: One of their standout qualities is their ability to lead, not just supervise. They trust their team to excel without the need for micromanagement, empowering them to take ownership and perform at their best.

But here’s the exciting part: You have the chance to learn directly from Bill and Sandy Long!

They will be sharing their invaluable insights at our upcoming Power Up Your Business Conference. This is your opportunity to get firsthand advice from true small business leaders.

Don’t miss out!

Register for the conference  and embark on a journey toward a more successful and motivated team.

Bill and Sandy look forward to answering your questions and showing you the path to small business success.

Join us on Friday, October 20, 2023 at 7:30am and let’s power up your business together!

Tips for Busy Small Business Owners to Increase Sales

Published: Published: | By Author Jeff Nicely

Running a small business can be a whirlwind of tasks and responsibilities, leaving you feeling overwhelmed and stretched thin. But what if I told you that there’s a powerful tool right at your fingertips that can help you increase sales and grow your business without adding a ton of extra time to your workload?

Facebook Groups may just be your secret weapon. In this guide, we’ll show you how to effectively utilize Facebook Groups to boost sales while keeping your busy schedule in check.

1. The Untapped Potential of Facebook Groups

Facebook Groups are online communities where like-minded individuals come together to share knowledge, interests, and experiences. They can be a goldmine for small business owners looking to connect with potential customers and drive sales.

2. Finding the Right Groups

The key to successful Facebook Group marketing is finding the right groups to join. Start by searching for groups related to your industry, niche, or target audience. Join a few that resonate with your business goals.

A great place to personally connect with businesses in your industry and target audience will be at our “Power Up Your Business” Conference on October 20, 2023. 

Make sure you arrive prepared to connect personally then follow up on social media with business leaders who you can help and who can help you grow your business.

3. Establishing Your Presence

Once you’re in the right groups, it’s essential to establish your presence as a valuable member before diving into sales tactics. Here’s how:

  • Complete Your Profile: Ensure your Facebook profile is professional and includes information about your business.

  • Participate Actively: Engage in group discussions, answer questions, and provide helpful insights related to your industry.

  • Build Relationships: Take the time to connect with group members, network, and genuinely contribute to the community.

Remember that social media is a long-term game that takes time, just like building relationships in person…it all takes time, respect, and social skills.

4. Sharing Value-Driven Content

As a busy small business owner, your time is precious, so make the most of it by sharing valuable content that showcases your expertise:

  • Educational Posts: Share informative articles, how-to guides, and tips relevant to your industry.  If you need help coming up with great post ideas, message us because we have a ton a resources to help you excel at creating posts.

  • Behind-the-Scenes: Offer a peek behind the curtain with posts showcasing your business’s inner workings.

  • Customer Stories: Share success stories and testimonials from satisfied customers.

5. Thoughtful Promotion

When it’s time to promote your products or services, do so thoughtfully and strategically:

  • Highlight Benefits: Craft persuasive posts that emphasize the benefits of your offerings.  Consider the possibility of using AI technology to help you save time while creating posts that will increase engagement. 

  • Exclusive Deals: Offer special discounts or promotions exclusively for group members to create a sense of belonging.

  • Ask for Feedback: Seek input from the community on product ideas or improvements to involve them in your business.

6. Running Engaging Contests and Giveaways

People love contests and giveaways. Organize interactive contests within the group and offer your products or services as prizes. This can generate excitement and word-of-mouth promotion.  Please note that when running contests on social media, you must play by the rules of each platform or run the risk of being warned before having your page closed down completely.  We have seen pages closed for not complying with the platform guidelines.  Here is a link to Facebook’s Contest Guidelines.

7. Leveraging Group Admins

Build a positive relationship with group admins as they can help you navigate the group’s dynamics and potentially promote your offerings.

8. Analyzing and Adjusting

Regularly assess the effectiveness of your Facebook Group efforts:

  • Use Facebook Insights: Track engagement, reach, and sales generated from group activities.

  • Adapt Your Strategy: Based on data, adjust your approach to maximize results.

Conclusion

Facebook Groups offer a unique opportunity for busy small business owners to increase sales and build lasting customer relationships. By finding the right groups, establishing your presence, sharing valuable content, and promoting your offerings thoughtfully, you can turn these online communities into a valuable sales channel. Remember, it’s not just about making sales; it’s about building trust, authority, and a loyal customer base in the process. So, roll up your sleeves, get started, and watch your small business thrive overtime, in the world of Facebook Groups.

How To Maximize Your Expo Booth Impact

Published: Published: | By Author Jeff Nicely

Are you a solo small business owner gearing up for an upcoming business expo?

Participating in such events can be a game-changer for your business, offering opportunities for networking, lead generation, and brand exposure. However, to make the most of your investment, it’s crucial to have a well-thought-out strategy. In this blog post, we’ll explore effective tips to help you maximize the impact of your expo booth as a solo entrepreneur.

1. Set Clear Objectives

Before you dive into the whirlwind of an expo, take a step back and define your goals. What do you want to achieve? Are you primarily looking to generate leads, make sales, or increase brand awareness? Having clear objectives will guide your booth setup, engagement strategy, and post-expo follow-up.

2. Plan and Budget Wisely

Expo participation comes with costs, including booth rental, marketing materials, travel, and accommodation. Create a detailed budget that covers all expenses, and stick to it. Allocate resources strategically, focusing on areas that will have the most impact on your goals.

3. Booth Design Matters

Your booth is your business’s physical representation at the expo. Invest in an eye-catching booth design that reflects your brand’s identity and values. Ensure your signage and graphics are professional and enticing, drawing attendees in.

4. Create Engaging Materials

Prepare promotional materials like brochures, business cards, and giveaways. Make sure they’re not only visually appealing but also informative and memorable. Quality materials can leave a lasting impression on expo attendees.

5. Elevator Pitch Perfection

You’ll have limited time to capture attendees’ attention, so craft a compelling elevator pitch. Clearly and concisely communicate what your business offers and why it’s valuable. Practice until you can deliver it confidently and persuasively.

6. Staffing Strategy

As a solo entrepreneur, you may not have a large team, but that’s no excuse for not having the right people in your booth. Ensure you or your staff are knowledgeable about your products or services and can engage with attendees effectively.

7. Interactive Elements

Consider incorporating interactive elements into your booth. Live product demonstrations, engaging presentations, or hands-on activities can create memorable experiences and draw a crowd.

8. Lead Generation

Implement a lead capture system to collect attendee contact information. Use technology like tablets or mobile apps to streamline this process, allowing you to focus on engaging with prospects.

9. Networking Opportunities

Don’t just stay confined to your booth. Attend seminars, workshops, and networking events within the expo to connect with other exhibitors and potential partners. Building relationships can lead to valuable collaborations.  For networking opportunities beyond the expo, check with your local Chamber of Commerce.

10. Follow-Up with Finesse

After the expo, promptly follow up with the leads you’ve gathered. Send personalized messages and offers that align with attendees’ needs and preferences. The follow-up is where many opportunities are lost or won.

11. Evaluate and Adapt

Take time to evaluate the success of your expo participation. Measure your return on investment (ROI) by analyzing sales generated, partnerships formed, and other key metrics. Document what worked and what didn’t so you can improve for the next expo.

12. Stay Consistent

Consistency is key in marketing. Maintain the momentum generated at the expo by continuing to market your business through various channels, such as social media, email, and content marketing.

In conclusion, solo small business owners can maximize the impact of their expo booth by setting clear objectives, careful planning, and strategic execution. Remember that expo participation is an ongoing learning process. Each event provides valuable insights that can help you refine your approach for future expos. So, go out there, make an impact, and watch your business grow!

Success Strategies to Power Up Your Business

Published: Published: | By Author Jeff Nicely

In today’s small business landscape, it is crucial for companies to constantly seek ways to boost their performance and stay ahead of the competition. This article will explore some powerful strategies that can help businesses achieve growth and success.

Develop a Strong Brand Identity

Create a Memorable Logo

  • Choose a design that reflects your company’s values and resonates with your target audience.
  • Ensure that your logo is versatile and can be used across different marketing channels.

Craft a Compelling Brand Story

  • Define your company’s mission, vision, and values.
  • Tell a story that connects with your customers and differentiates your brand from competitors.

Consistent Branding Across Channels

  • Maintain a consistent visual identity across all marketing materials, including website, social media, and print materials.
  • Use consistent messaging and tone of voice to reinforce your brand’s identity.

Embrace Digital Marketing

Build a User-Friendly Website

  • Ensure that your website is easy to navigate and provides a seamless user experience.
  • Optimize your website for search engines to increase visibility and attract organic traffic.  Small Business expert Cameron Nelson will be addressing this specifically at our Power Up Your Business Conference.  Check out the schedule of speakers here:  Small Business Conference Schedule

Leverage Social Media Platforms

  • Identify the social media platforms that are most relevant to your target audience.
  • Create engaging content and interact with your followers to build brand loyalty and increase brand awareness.  You can learn this and so much more at our Power Up Your Business Conference on October 20, 2023.

Implement Email Marketing Campaigns

  • Build an email list of interested prospects and customers.
  • Send targeted and personalized emails to nurture leads and drive conversions.

Foster Customer Relationships

Provide Exceptional Customer Service

  • Train your employees to deliver outstanding customer service.
  • Respond promptly to customer inquiries and resolve issues in a timely manner.  Bill and Sandy Long, owners of Auto Care Clinic in Front Royal, VA will be speaking about customer and employee loyalty at this years Power Up Your Business Conference

Implement a Customer Loyalty Program

  • Reward loyal customers with exclusive discounts, special offers, or VIP perks.
  • Encourage repeat purchases and referrals through a tiered loyalty program.

Gather and Act on Customer Feedback

  • Regularly collect feedback from customers through surveys, reviews, and social media.
  • Use customer feedback to improve your products, services, and overall customer experience.

Conclusion

By implementing these power strategies, small businesses can enhance their brand presence, attract more customers, and ultimately boost their overall success. It is important to continuously evaluate and adapt these strategies to stay relevant in an ever-changing business environment.

How do I optimize my website for Google search engine?

Published: Published: | By Author Christine Kriz

Optimizing your website for Google search results involves various strategies and techniques collectively known as Search Engine Optimization (SEO). SEO aims to improve your website’s visibility and rankings on search engines like Google, leading to increased organic traffic. Here are some essential steps to optimize your website for Google search results:

  1. Keyword Research: Identify relevant keywords and phrases that your target audience might use to find your content. Use tools like Google Keyword Planner or other keyword research tools to discover high-traffic and low-competition keywords.

  2. High-Quality Content: Create valuable and engaging content that satisfies the intent of your target audience. Google values well-written, informative, and relevant content. Focus on creating comprehensive and authoritative articles that answer users’ questions.

  3. On-Page Optimization: Ensure that your target keywords are used naturally within your content, meta tags, headings (H1, H2, etc.), and image alt tags. However, avoid keyword stuffing, as it can negatively impact your rankings.

  4. Mobile Optimization: With the majority of searches now happening on mobile devices, ensure your website is mobile-friendly and provides an excellent user experience on all screen sizes.

  5. Page Speed: Optimize your website’s loading speed. Google considers page speed as a ranking factor, and faster-loading pages tend to rank higher in search results. Use tools like Google PageSpeed Insights to identify areas for improvement.

  6. Use Descriptive URLs: Create clean, descriptive, and user-friendly URLs that include relevant keywords. Avoid using generic URLs with numbers or meaningless strings.

  7. Internal Linking: Link relevant pages and posts within your website to create a logical and organized structure. Internal linking helps Google understand the content hierarchy and improves user navigation.

  8. External Linking: Link to reputable and authoritative websites when it makes sense. Outbound links to high-quality sources can add credibility to your content.

  9. Secure your Website: Use HTTPS to encrypt data transmission between your website and users’ browsers. A secure website is now considered a ranking factor, and it instills trust in your visitors.

  10. Optimize Images: Compress images to reduce their file size without compromising quality. Properly optimized images can improve page load times and user experience.

  11. Implement Schema Markup: Add schema markup to your content to help search engines understand the context and relevance of your pages better. This can lead to rich snippets in search results, improving click-through rates.

  12. Regularly Update Content: Keep your website fresh and up-to-date by adding new content and updating existing pages. Fresh content signals to Google that your website is active and relevant.

  13. Monitor Analytics: Use tools like Google Analytics to track your website’s performance, user behavior, and traffic sources. This data will help you understand what works and identify areas for improvement.

Remember, SEO is an ongoing process, and it may take some time before you see significant improvements in search rankings. Stay up-to-date with SEO best practices, and adapt your strategies as search engine algorithms evolve.  Have questions?  Reach out to me at [email protected] to set up a free consultation.

 
 

Do these small business challenges affect you?

Published: Published: | By Author Christine Kriz

Small business owners face a wide range of challenges, and these can vary depending on the industry, location, and specific circumstances of the business. However, some of the most common issues that small business owners encounter include the ones that follow.  If you have business questions we can help you.  Email [email protected]

  1. Financial Management: Struggling with cash flow, budgeting, and financial planning are frequent challenges for small business owners. Keeping a close eye on expenses and revenue is essential for sustainability and growth.

  2. Marketing and Customer Acquisition: Many small business owners find it difficult to reach their target audience and effectively market their products or services. Customer acquisition and retention are critical for long-term success.

  3. Competition: Small businesses often compete with larger, more established companies, making it challenging to gain market share and stand out in a crowded marketplace.

  4. Regulatory Compliance: Navigating complex regulations and legal requirements can be overwhelming, especially for small businesses with limited resources.

  5. Staffing and Talent Management: Finding and retaining skilled employees on a limited budget can be a significant hurdle. A small team’s dynamics and performance can greatly impact the business’s success.

  6. Technology Adoption: Keeping up with rapidly evolving technology and incorporating it into the business can be daunting for small business owners.

  7. Time Management: Balancing multiple responsibilities and tasks is a constant struggle, leading to time management issues and potential burnout.

  8. Inventory and Supply Chain Management: For businesses involved in selling physical products, managing inventory levels and supplier relationships can be challenging.

  9. Economic Uncertainty: Small businesses are more susceptible to economic downturns, and uncertain market conditions can impact their stability and growth prospects.

  10. Adapting to Market Trends: Being agile and responsive to changing consumer preferences and market trends is essential, but it can be difficult for small businesses to pivot quickly.

  11. Access to Capital: Securing funding and financing for business expansion or investment in new projects can be a significant obstacle for small business owners.

  12. Online Presence and E-Commerce: In the digital age, having a strong online presence and e-commerce capabilities are crucial, but some small businesses struggle to establish and maintain an effective online presence.

  13. Healthcare Costs: Providing healthcare benefits for employees can be a significant financial burden for small businesses.

  14. Risk Management: Managing and mitigating risks, such as legal liabilities, cybersecurity threats, and natural disasters, can be challenging for small businesses with limited resources.

  15. Scaling the Business: Transitioning from a small operation to a larger business requires careful planning and execution, presenting its own set of challenges.

Addressing these issues requires a combination of strategic planning, adaptability, and seeking professional advice when needed. Small business owners who are proactive and resourceful are better equipped to overcome these challenges and achieve long-term success.

 
 

How Do I Hire A New Employee in VA?

Published: Published: | By Author Jeff Nicely

When you’re ready to hire a new employee in VA,  you’ll need to consider several key elements to ensure you get your hiring done right the first time.

Employee or Independent Contractor?

Determine whether you want an employee or an independent contractor. There are certain factors that define a worker as an independent contractor.

An independent contractor does not rely on the business as the sole source of income, works at his or her own pace as defined by an agreement, is not eligible for employer provided benefits and they have a degree of control and independence.

Hire A New Employee

1. Develop a job description for the position. What do you want this person to do? What are the clear expectations?
2. Develop a job posting and interview questions.
3. Get an Employer Identification Number (EIN)
4. Register with the Virginia Taxation department
5. Register with the Virginia Unemployment Commission

Forms For VA New Hires

Once you are ready to hire there are new hire forms you will need.
1. Ensure new employees return a completed W-4 form and VA-4 tax form
2. Have the employee complete the I9 form.
3. Have the new hire complete a Contact Information form and Direct Deposit
Authorization form
4. Work with a bookkeeper to do your payroll or learn the state and federal tax laws and
how to report and pay your taxes.
5. Schedule pay periods to coordinate tax withholding for IRS
6. Each employee should have an employee file. If you offer benefits there should be a
separate file for anything health related.
7. Develop an employee handbook
8. Create a compensation plan for holiday, vacation and leave
9. Decide who will manage your payroll system
10. Learn which records must stay on file and for how long

The IRS maintains the Employer’s Tax Guide, which provides guidance on all federal tax filing requirements that could apply to the obligations for your small business.

The State of VA Taxation department has a business checklist.

 

**Thanks to our SBDC Director, Christine Krize for these insight.