FAQ.

Do I need an LLC before I do anything else?

Yes — for first-time founders, an LLC is almost always the right entity. File it before the EIN, the business bank, and any credit applications. Full Houston walkthrough.

How long does Texas LLC filing take?

Online filing with the Texas Secretary of State is typically 3–10 business days. The Certificate of Formation filing fee is $300. You'll also need a registered agent.

Do I need an EIN if I'm a single-member LLC?

Technically no. Practically yes. Get it. The EIN is free at irs.gov — avoid any site charging $200 for it.

How long until a fundable business credit file?

EIN, D-U-N-S, and 2–3 reporting tradelines on 60–90 day clean cycles move the file from "no record" to "thin established." A first business card paid for 90 more days moves it to "established with revolving history." So roughly 4–6 months from a clean start.

Will building business credit affect my personal credit?

It depends on the product. Most business credit card applications report inquiries to personal credit. NET-30 vendor tradelines and pure business credit products generally don't. We sequence to minimize the personal-credit hit.

What's the difference between the $597 and $297 programs?

The $597 Proper Business Structure program builds the foundation: entity, EIN, banking, identity. The $297 Business Credit Builder builds the credit file on top of it. Most clients start with $597 unless their LLC is already cleanly in place.

Can I do this with just the free training?

For founders who learn from content alone — yes, the free training covers the framework. The paid programs add the actual checklists, scripts, vendor lists, and the accountability piece most founders need to finish the work.