Our mission is to help people become business owners, and a record does not stop you from owning one. Many business registrations do not ask about convictions. Here is a starting checklist.
- Write a one-page plan. What do you sell, who buys it, and what does it cost to start? Keep it simple.
- Start small and low-cost. Service businesses such as cleaning, lawn care, hauling, mobile detailing and catering need little money to begin.
- Register the business. In Ohio, you register a business name and entity (such as an LLC) with the Ohio Secretary of State.
- Get an EIN (free) from the IRS and open a business bank account.
- Check licenses. Some trades and professions require a license, and some licensing boards review criminal history. A Certificate of Qualification for Employment can help with those.
- Get free help. SCORE mentors and Small Business Development Centers offer free or low-cost coaching.
- Build credit and keep records from day one.
Felons With A Future helps people in the Dayton area build business skills and plans. Reach out through our Contact page to learn more.
This post is general information, not legal or financial advice.
