Im in the same process as you, I basically have taken the last couple of weeks, to get things hammered out. See an accountant first (if your family has one, a free consultation shouldnt be unheard of). I talked to a lawyer friend about filing for a LLC, most lawyers charge about 350-400 to do it. You can do it on the net for about 100$, depending on your state. IMO, the planning/recording keeping are best to get setup asap, so you have an easier time when you start selling etc. I have quickbooks setup, integrated with ACT! software, can print my own checks etc, if you have any startup money, which Im assuming you do, you can find business checking accounts with no fee, as long as you keep a min balance (my bank is 5k). Ill check out my bookshelf when I get home to see what reading I can reccomend, because I cant think of anything off of the top of my head.