Starting a Business Checklist

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Registration

• Register a business with SSMThe basis for everything: bank accounts, official invoices and customer trust.
• Open a business bank accountBusiness money mixed with personal makes accounts and taxes difficult.
• Tax register with LHDNRegistered businesses need to file taxes; Early registration is easier than chasing later.

Premises & license

• PBT premises license (if there is a physical store)Local councils require a license for physical business premises.
• Industry specific license (if relevant)Food, care and financial needs are additional; check your industry-related agency.

Staff (if any)

• Employer register with EPFMandatory EPF contribution for employees; Employer registration must be done first.
• Employer register with SOCSO & EISSOCSO coverage and employment insurance is the employer's obligation.

Finance

• Arrange sales record methodRecords from day one save you during audits, taxes and when you want to grow.
• Check e-Invoice requirementsKnow in advance whether your business is mandatory or exempt. Open the related tool
• Separate business & personal moneySelf-pay from business account; don't shop directly from sales.

Digital

• Special WhatsApp number for businessSeparate business matters from personal chat, and can be handed over to the staff later.
• Register Google Business ProfileFree, and the main way for local customers to find new businesses in Google and Maps.
• Website or landing pageCustomers who hear your name will Google first; make sure there is something convincing. Open the related tool
• Privacy notice (if collecting customer data)PDPA 2010 requires notice when you collect personal data through forms or WhatsApp. Open the related tool