Thinking about starting a business

Business planning, costs, registrations, licences, intellectual property and getting help choosing a business name.

Questions to ask yourself before you start

Check that your business idea is going to work

How much money do you need to set up and run your business?

Ways to structure your business

Write a business plan

Introduction to taxes and levies

Buying a business

It can be cheaper to buy an existing business than to set one up from scratch.  Investigate the market to make sure you're getting a fair deal.

Buying a business or franchise

Running a business

Staff and human resources

Employment obligations and requirements, good management practices and health and safety.

Hiring an employee

ACC levies

What you pay depends on the number of staff you have, their income, the industry you’re in and your claims history.

ACC levies

Tax obligations

Keep accurate records, budget for upcoming tax payments and account for your business expenses and deductions.

Business tax obligations

Compliance requirements

Use the Compliance Matters tool to find, understand and manage the government requirements you need to meet for your business.

Compliance requirements

Going contracting

You can also be a self-employed contractor. You'll normally be paid more than a salaried worker, but you'll need to pay your own tax, holiday pay and sick leave.

What is a contractor?

Setting up as a contractor and finding work

Contractor insurance

Advice and support for your business

Grants and help for your new business

Contact a business adviser for business start up and development help

IRD's community compliance officers

Kaitakawaenga Māori business support