When writing your business plan you are making the argument for the success of your idea.  You need to know about your industry, your competitors, your suppliers and your customers.  Do you have a way of doing it better, faster, cheaper?

Check out the links below for help building your business plan.

Researching Your Plan

Bizstats - Free resource to help make sales projections and calculate balance sheet and financial ratios for all types of businesses.

Business and Industry Statistics - The US Census Bureau has statistics from the whole US down to Zip code.

Thomas Register - Find customers, suppliers and competition.

Writing Your Plan

How to Create a Business Plan - Entrepreneur.com is an excellent place to get started.

Writing a Business Plan - The US Small Business Administration

Writing Your Business Plan - The US Chamber of Commerce

 

Federal ID Number
The first step to take is applying for a Federal Tax ID or EIN.  It is like a Social Security Number for your business.  Tax ID numbers are provided by the Internal Revenue Service.  You can apply for one online by clicking here.

State Requirements
While business licensing requirements vary from state to state, some of the more common types are listed below.

Business Licenses
A state business license is the main document required for tax purposes and conducting other basic business functions. Many states have established small business assistance agencies to help small businesses comply with state requirements.

Occupations and Professions
State licenses are frequently required for occupations as varied as building contractors, physicians, appraisers, accountants, barbers, real estate agents, auctioneers, private investigators, private security guards, funeral directors, bill collectors, and cosmetologists. Since you can't always guess which occupations and professions are licensed by your state, you should always check with your state licensing authorities.

Licenses Based on Products Sold
Some state licensing requirements are based on the product sold. For example, most states require special licenses to sell liquor, lottery tickets, gasoline, or firearms. Contact your state licensing authorities to determine the licensing requirements of your business.

Tax Registration
If the state in which you operate has a state income tax, you'll have to register and obtain an employer identification number from your state Department of Revenue or Treasury Department. If you're engaging in retail sales, you will need to obtain a sales tax license.

Trade Name Registration
If your business will only be operated in your local community, registering your company name with the state may be sufficient.

Employer Registrations
If you have any employees, you'll probably be required to make unemployment insurance contributions. For more information, contact your state Department of Revenue or Department of Labor.

~from SBA.gov