finances

Starting a small business is an exciting and rewarding endeavor—but it also requires careful planning, clear vision, and a solid financial foundation. At Schwind Accounting Services, Inc., we’ve worked with dozens of entrepreneurs across Lakewood and the South Sound area, helping them turn great ideas into thriving businesses. Whether you’re launching a boutique, consulting firm, food truck, or service-based company, here are the key elements we believe every startup needs to succeed. 1. A Clear Business Plan Your business plan is your roadmap. It defines what you offer, who your customers are, how you’ll operate, and where you want to go. A strong plan includes: Not only does a well-written plan guide your decision-making, but it also proves essential if you intend to secure loans or investor funding. 2. Legal Structure and Registration One of the first decisions you’ll make is choosing a legal structure—such as a sole proprietorship, LLC, S-Corp, or partnership. Each has tax, liability, and administrative implications. At Schwind Accounting Services, we help you understand the pros and cons of each structure and ensure that your business is registered correctly with the state, IRS, and any applicable local agencies. 3. A Solid Accounting System A startup’s financial health depends on proper bookkeeping from day one. This includes: We offer customized bookkeeping and accounting services to ensure you’re always audit-ready, tax-compliant, and informed about your financial position. 4. Licenses, Permits, and Compliance Depending on your industry, you may need state or local licenses, sales tax permits, or industry-specific […]