As we enter a new year, it’s the time for evaluating what worked and what needs improvement.

While we may be determined accomplishing personal resolutions for the upcoming year, every business owner needs a plan. That’s why we’ve come up with this list of resolutions for your business.

Resolution #1: Business License Review

Even home-based businesses require business licenses, most of which require periodic renewal. Establish a New Year tradition of auditing your license requirements. Is the information provided when you applied for the license still current, or are updates needed? Will you need additional licenses in 2018 because of expansion plans? Tracking down license requirements can be a nuisance, so you may want to take advantage of CT's business license application package.

Resolution #2: Annual Reports

Are you doing business in multiple states or expanding into new territories? Are your annual reports up for renewal?  It can be easy to miss an annual report filing, particularly if your business operates in more than one state. There is no standard filing due date. Some states have a fixed date for all businesses, but others base the due date on the incorporation, formation, or qualification date. And you can’t rely on the state to remind you as many have done away with annual reminders. If you only do business in your home state, you may be able to keep track of things yourself. But businesses with multiple reporting requirements may want to look into retaining compliance professionals. Failing to file an annual report is the primary reason that a business will lose good standing with the state. 

Resolution #3: Registered Agent

Every corporation or LLC is required to have a registered agent in each state it’s registered to do business. A registered agent may also be necessary if you are doing business overseas without being incorporated. Your registered agent receives important legal documents like service of process and important communications from the state filing office.  The registered agent’s name and address are on file with the state and available to the public.  If the name and/or address of the registered agent on file is inaccurate your company can be subject to penalties.  And, if service of process is not received by the company, there can be serious legal consequences.  Therefore, if you already have a registered agent, now’s a good time to do a quick audit to be sure the state’s records are up to date.  It is also a good time to make sure your current registered agents will be able to act in that capacity for the long term - and if you are expanding into new states to choose a registered agent who can serve your needs.  Having to frequently update the state records when the registered agent or address changes requires paperwork and possibly a fee.  (And if you forget to do it, it can subject your company to penalties.)  

Resolution #4: Good Standing

Lenders sometimes require good-standing status in order to approve new financing. They generally view a loss of good standing status as an increased risk. Official documents of your company’s standing may be necessary when registering a foreign business. Being in good standing helps your company save money and more easily do business with others. Resolve to check your company’s standing on a periodic basis.

Conclusion

Resolve today to audit your company’s licensing status, annual report filings, registered agent choice and standing. Starting the year with these activities will get your business in top shape for 2018.

Thriving businesses are built by the habits that owners choose to engage in on a daily basis. Make these habits part of your quarterly routines, and you’re well on your way to a successful endeavor for many years to come.