What You Need Before Starting Your Shopify Store

Ready to launch your Shopify store? I'm here to help you every step of the way! 🎉 Before we get started, there are a few key pieces of information you'll need to gather. Having these ready in advance will help ensure a smooth process from the very beginning.

Here’s a checklist of what you need before I can start building your Shopify Store:  

1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

Your EIN is used for tax and legal purposes, especially if you're setting up your business as an LLC or corporation. While it's possible to set up a Shopify store without an EIN by using your Social Security Number (SSN), I highly recommend getting an EIN. It provides extra privacy, keeping your SSN more secure, and is necessary if you plan to hire employees or establish business credit. You can easily apply for one through the IRS website.

2. Store Name

Choose the name that will represent your business and resonate with your customers.

3. Logo

A strong, recognizable logo is a crucial element of your store's branding. If you don't have one see my Shopify Growth Package. 

4. Domain Name

If you already have a domain, great! If not, start thinking about the perfect URL that matches your brand. We can transfer your domain if it’s from GoDaddy. If you don’t have one, I usually recommend buying directly from Shopify. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Buying from Shopify:

• Pros: Easy integration with your store, automatic setup, and no manual DNS configuration.
• Cons: You can't use your Shopify domain on other platforms if you decide to switch in the future. Typically costs $14.99 a year. 

Buying from GoDaddy (or other providers):

• Pros: Flexibility to use your domain on other platforms.
• Cons: Requires manual setup and integration with Shopify.

5. Business Description

How would you describe your business to someone new? Having this ready will help define your store's messaging.

6. Store Email

Set up an email account that you’ll use for customer communication, inquiries, and store-related notifications.

7. Legal Business Address

This should match the address linked to your EIN for legal correspondence and business records.

8. Birthdate

Your birthdate will be required to verify identity for account setup and verification.

9. Last 4 Digits of Your SSN

This is needed for identity verification with Shopify.

10. “About You” Paragraph

Let your customers get to know you! A short paragraph about who you are and why you started your business can add a personal touch to your store.

11. Shipping Preferences

Decide what you’d like to charge for shipping and which shipping methods you want to offer to your customers.

12. Bank Account Number

This is where your Shopify sales revenue will be deposited, so be sure to have it handy.

13. State Sales Tax ID

Some states require a sales tax ID for eCommerce businesses. Check if this applies to your location.  You don't need this right away.  

14. Product Photos

High-quality images of your products are key to making your store look professional and appealing.

15. PayPal Email

If you plan to accept PayPal payments, you’ll need to link a verified PayPal account to your store.

16. Driver’s License or Passport

Shopify may ask for this as part of their identity verification process, so be sure to have a scanned copy of both documents ready for upload

 

Let’s Get Started!

Once you’ve gathered all of these essentials, you’ll be ready to begin building your Shopify store. If you have any questions about the process or need assistance with any of the items above, don’t hesitate to reach out!