5 Smart Business Startup Tips for Parents with Disabilities

This blog post was written by Ed Carter of Able Futures. Check him out at https://ablefutures.org/ for all your financial literacy needs.

Though a disability can make conventional jobs difficult, many professionals find that starting a business is the perfect fit. Even with kids at home, it's possible to start and grow a company to support your family. Learn how with these smart tips from UniqueliMade.

Research Possible Business Structures

No matter what type of business you start, you'll have paperwork to file and legal requirements to follow. But one important piece of business formation is choosing a legal structure for your company. For example, forming an LLC is one way to start a company that offers some tax advantages and flexibility if you want to grow your business. Each state has different rules for LLC formation, so do your research before filing paperwork. After that, be sure to consult a tax professional to learn more about your tax obligations. Most self-employed individuals must pay taxes quarterly to avoid penalties come tax time.

Square Away Company Finances

Though you can use savings or your own income to start a company, you might not have to. Many organizations offer grants for small businesses that cover startup costs. Some organizations offer grants for specific business types or in a designated state or county. Search grant opportunities online to see what grant types might be available. Many banks and organizations offer small business loans. Although you must pay back the loan, it's a reliable way to get startup cash for your company without stretching your budget. For example, the U.S. Small Business Administration offers microloans of up to $50,000 through their funding partners. Applicants must meet eligibility requirements and use the funds according to the SBA's guidelines. Of course, many business ideas require very little startup money, especially if you offer services. If overhead costs are low for your business model, working to make extra money to invest in it may be the perfect strategy.

Sharpen Your Business Skills with Schooling

Being passionate is an important part of the equation for small business owners. But returning to school to develop your business skills can have a positive impact on your company, too. It's also a great way to show your kids what hard work can achieve. Degree programs in business, management, accounting, and communications help you brush up on business skills. Online programs are also convenient for working professionals; this may be a good option for business owners with busy schedules.

Other ways to brush up on skills might involve mentorship or self-study. Business-focused organizations like SCORE offer learning libraries on various small business topics that you can review anytime.

If you're motivated to learn while building your business, there are plenty of ways to make it happen!

Create Engaging Marketing Materials

Engaging with potential customers is probably easier than it has ever been for business owners. Of course, with so many social media platforms and marketing strategies, it can be overwhelming and hard to establish where to start. Luckily, there are some simple ways to engage with an audience online. Choose one or two platforms and create content that your customers can relate to. Start with a simple social media content calendar and stick to your posting schedule. Over time, your content might become more nuanced. At first, take it slow. For example, memes are an easy way to connect with followers. With an online meme maker, designing your own to suit your products and audience is quick and simple.

Plan for Unexpected Interruptions

However dedicated you are to your business, parenting will always take precedence. When you're in the initial stages of a startup, consider ways to make home life easier to reduce stress. With young children, plan to work before they wake up or after they're in bed. Try setting up quiet activities or permitting screen time if you need quiet hours during the day. For older kids, having them help with daily business tasks could benefit you both. As The Nest explains, hiring your children to work for your company can involve tax benefits. Finding balance might be challenging, but it's worth the effort to build your business while raising kids. Whether you're heading back to school for a degree or starting a side hustle that grows, these tips will keep you on track.