Virtually every business must obtain a variety of licenses, permits and registrations before opening its doors to the public. But, failure to have the necessary permits can result in fines or even force changes to your schedule for launching your business.

Unlike an LLC or an S corporation, a C corporation is a separate taxpaying entity that must file and pay taxes on its income. Learn about federal and state taxes that a corporation may have to pay.

Nearly every business must obtain a variety of business licenses, permits and registrations to operate. And, most licenses must be renewed periodically and updated when any information about the company or the business changes. If the business expands—either to new locations or by offering new products or services—additional permits will be needed. Failure to have the necessary permits can result in fines or even a business shut-down.

Know what could change a corporation's structure, including conversions, mergers, consolidations, and asset sales.

See what proof of corporate existence each state requires for foreign qualification.

Operating as a corporation or LLC requires filing an annual report in your formation state and every state where you are registered to do business. It's essential to track and comply with each state's deadlines.

Wicked Strategies author John Camillus explains how the traditional methods of problem solving aren't good enough for the existential threats facing businesses today. He also provides advice on how to arrive at a solution in the midst of a crisis and offers examples of how companies not only survived major challenges, but found ways to use them to their advantage.

Prof. Samuel Bacharach, author of The Agenda Mover explains how to translate good business ideas and plans into a vision that everyone can get behind. Bacharach tells us the best ways to win over skeptical colleagues and how turning dreams into an agenda is vital no matter the size of the business.

This CT Smart Chart provides basic guidelines on how long different types of business documents should be retained.

A recent California case illustrates the importance of appointing a registered agent who fully understands the obligations involved. An individual registered agent thought that his obligation to notify stakeholders of a lawsuit ended when the company dissolved. He was wrong and the default judgment entered against the company was upheld on appeal.