Let’s make this super simple, Bestie. EIN (Employer Identification Number) Think of it like your business’s Social Security Number. Used for:✔ Taxes✔ Opening bank accounts✔ Applying for funding✔ Hiring employees✔ Filing paperwork Who issues it: IRS Cost: FREE When you need it: Immediately after forming your business DUNS Number (Business Credit ID) Your business’s credit file identification number. Used for:✔ Building business credit✔ Vendor accounts✔ Applying for business loans✔ Getting approved for Net 30 accounts✔ Working with corporate vendors Who issues it: Dun & Bradstreet Cost: Free (standard) When you need it: Before building vendor credit In Short: EIN = Your business identity DUNS = Your business credit identity You need BOTH to get funded.

Use this checklist to make sure lenders see your business as credible, legitimate, and trustworthy. ✔ Business Identity Setup ▢ Registered business ▢ EIN ▢ Operating Agreement ▢ Business phone number ▢ Business email ▢ Website ▢ Business address (not home if possible) ✔ Financial Setup ▢ Business bank account ▢ No overdrafts / NSF ▢ Merchant account set up ▢ Consistent revenue flow ✔ Compliance Setup ▢ DUNS number ▢ Business license (if required) ▢ Matching information across ALL platforms (very important) ✔ Business Credit Setup ▢ One or more Tier 1 vendor accounts ▢ On-time or early payments ▢ Monitoring your business credit profile ✔ Online Credibility Setup ▢ Website feels professional ▢ Google Business Profile ▢ Active social presence

Bestie, here’s the simple checklist to become a legally registered business — no confusion, no overwhelm. Step 1: Choose Your Business Name ✔ Make sure it’s not taken✔ Keep it lender-friendly(Example: No “high-risk” names like “Investments,” “Credit Repair,” etc.) Step 2: Pick Your Structure Sole Prop → starter LLC → best for beginners S-Corp → tax advantages when you grow C-Corp → for investors Step 3: Register With Your State (Articles of Organization) ✔ Go to your state’s Secretary of State website ✔ Search: “Form an LLC”✔ File online Cost: usually $50–$300 depending on the state Step 4: Get Your EIN (Free) ✔ Go to IRS.gov ✔ Apply online ✔ You get it immediately 🚫 Never pay someone for an EIN — it’s FREE. Step 5: Create Your Operating Agreement Required for funding Required for bank accounts Protects your business Step 6: Open Your Business Bank Account ✔ Bring your EIN ✔ Bring Articles of Organization ✔ Bring Operating Agreement ✔ Bring ID Step 7: Register for State & Local Permits Depends on your industry (food, retail, childcare, etc.) Step 8: Set Up Your Online Business Presence ✔ Business email ✔ Simple website ✔ Business phone number ✔ Google Business Profile You’re now official AND fundable. 💛

My Simple Recommendation If you're unsure:👉 Start LLC👉 Keep good records👉 Elect S-Corp when revenue grows This path gives you protection + fundability + room to scale.

S-Corp (Tax Advantage) Best for: Business owners earning $40–60k+ Pros: ✔ Lower taxes Allows you to be an “employee” of your business ✔ Great for scaling Cons:• Requires payroll setup• More tax rules Business Bestie Tip:Start as an LLC → elect S-Corp later when you’re earning enough.