What to Do After Business Registration: Compliance Checklist for New Businesses
Starting a business is exciting—but registration is only the first step. Many new entrepreneurs in the Philippines are surprised to learn that post-registration compliance is where the real work begins.
Missing a requirement after registration can lead to penalties, audits, or even forced closure. This guide walks you through exactly what to do after business registration, using a clear checklist and practical explanations—so you can stay compliant and focus on growing your business.
At Launchpad, we help startups and SMEs manage post-business registration compliance in Metro Manila and Cebu, so you don’t have to navigate this alone.
✅ Quick Answer: What Should You Do After Business Registration?
After registering your business, you must complete BIR registration, secure local permits, set up statutory benefits, maintain books of accounts, and meet ongoing reporting deadlines. These steps ensure your business operates legally and avoids penalties.
📌 TL;DR — Post-Registration Compliance Checklist
After business registration in the Philippines, you must:
- Register with the BIR
- Secure barangay clearance and mayor’s permit
- Register with SSS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG
- Set up books of accounts and official receipts
- File monthly, quarterly, and annual tax returns
- Comply with DOLE and labor requirements
- Renew permits and registrations annually
If this sounds overwhelming, Launchpad provides end-to-end compliance support in Metro Manila and Cebu.
Why Post Business Registration Compliance Matters
Many entrepreneurs assume that once they receive their SEC, DTI, or CDA registration, they are fully compliant. In reality, registration simply gives your business legal existence.
Post business registration compliance ensures that:
- You can legally issue receipts
- You avoid BIR penalties and audits
- You can hire employees properly
- Your business remains in good standing with government agencies
Lack of awareness is one of the most common reasons businesses incur penalties in their first year.
Step-by-Step Business Compliance Checklist (Philippines)
1. BIR Registration (Top Priority)
Do new businesses need BIR registration?
Yes—all businesses must register with the BIR, even if they are not yet earning.
Key BIR requirements after business registration include:
- Certificate of Registration (BIR Form 2303)
- Authority to Print (ATP) or ORs from accredited printers
- Registration of books of accounts
- Official receipts issuance
- Registration of the accounting system (manual or computerized)
⏱ Deadline: Within 30 days from registration
⚠️ Penalty for delay: Fines and surcharges
2. Books of Accounts & Official Receipts
Businesses must maintain registered books of accounts, such as:
- General journal
- General ledger
- Cash receipts and disbursement books
These are required for:
- Tax filing
- Audits
- Financial transparency
Failure to register books properly is a common BIR audit finding.
3. Local Government Permits (LGU Compliance)
Are local government permits required after business registration?
Yes. Even online or home-based businesses must secure LGU permits.
This typically includes:
- Barangay clearance
- Mayor’s permit
- Zoning clearance (if applicable)
- Fire safety inspection certificate
⏱ Deadline: Before operations begin
📍 Requirements vary by city or municipality
4. SSS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG Registration
If your business has employees—or plans to hire—you must register with:
- SSS
- PhilHealth
- Pag-IBIG Fund
These registrations are mandatory and allow you to:
- Remit employee contributions
- Comply with labor laws
- Avoid DOLE violations
5. DOLE and Labor Compliance
For businesses with employees, new business compliance requirements include:
- Labor standards compliance
- Employment contracts
- Payroll records
- Employee handbook or policies
- Registration of establishment with DOLE
Non-compliance may result in:
- Fines
- Mandatory corrections
- Failed labor inspections
How Soon Should You Complete Post-Registration Compliance?
How soon do I need to comply after registering my business?
Most requirements must be completed within 30 days, while some (like permits) are needed before operations start.
Recommended Timeline:
- Within 30 days: BIR registration, books, receipts
- Before operations: LGU permits
- Before hiring: SSS, PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG
- Ongoing: Tax filings and renewals
Ongoing Compliance Requirements to Track
Post-registration compliance doesn’t end after setup.
Businesses must monitor:
- Monthly withholding tax filings
- Quarterly income tax and VAT filings
- Annual income tax return
- Annual registration renewal (BIR Form 0605)
- Mayor’s permit renewal
- Books and records updates
Missing even one deadline can trigger penalties.
Common Mistakes New Businesses Make
- Assuming registration = compliance
- Delaying BIR registration
- Issuing unregistered receipts
- Missing monthly tax filings
- Ignoring LGU permit renewals
What happens if post-registration compliance is delayed?
Penalties, interest, possible closure, and increased audit risk.
Can Post-Registration Compliance Be Outsourced?
Yes—and many businesses do.
Outsourcing post-business-registration-compliance allows you to:
- Avoid costly mistakes
- Stay updated on regulatory changes
- Focus on growing your business
- Reduce admin workload
At Launchpad, we handle business registration compliance end-to-end for startups and SMEs in Metro Manila and Cebu.
Do Startups and SMEs Have the Same Compliance Requirements?
In most cases, yes.
While tax types and reporting frequency may vary, all registered businesses must comply with BIR, LGU, and labor regulations.
Size affects:
- Type of taxes
- Reporting complexity
- Audit exposure
But compliance obligations remain mandatory regardless of size.
Do I Need Professional Help After Business Registration?
If you’re asking:
- What documents are required after business registration?
- What happens if I miss post-registration requirements?
- What are the ongoing compliance requirements for businesses?
Then professional support can save you time, money, and stress.
Launchpad provides compliance services tailored to new businesses, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What should I do after registering my business?
You must complete BIR registration, secure local permits, register with government agencies, and set up ongoing compliance systems.
What are the compliance requirements after business registration?
BIR registration, LGU permits, statutory benefits registration, tax filings, and labor compliance.
How soon should a new business complete post-registration compliance?
Most requirements must be completed within 30 days of registration.
What BIR requirements apply after business registration?
BIR Form 2303, books of accounts, official receipts, and tax filings.
Are local government permits required after business registration?
Yes. Barangay clearance and a mayor’s permit are mandatory.
What happens if post-registration compliance is delayed?
Fines, penalties, audit risk, and possible business suspension.
Do startups and SMEs have the same compliance requirements?
Yes, though complexity varies based on size and operations.
What ongoing compliance requirements should businesses track?
Monthly, quarterly, and annual tax filings, renewals, and labor compliance.
Can post-registration compliance be outsourced?
Yes. Many businesses outsource to reduce risk and admin burden.
Do I need professional help after business registration?
Professional help ensures accuracy, timeliness, and peace of mind.
Final Thoughts: Stay Compliant, Stay Focused
Understanding what to do after business registration in the Philippines is critical to your success. Compliance isn’t just paperwork—it’s protection.
At Launchpad, we help businesses in Metro Manila and Cebu stay compliant from day one, so you can focus on growth instead of government deadlines.
If you want help managing your business compliance checklist in the Philippines, Launchpad is here to support you—every step of the way.