The Initio Blog
Founder finance, explained plainly.
Practical guides on taxes, payroll, banking, fundraising, and compliance — with real numbers and deadlines.
Startup Compliance Calendar: Every Filing Deadline You Can't Miss
A month-by-month startup compliance calendar covering Delaware franchise tax, payroll filings, 1099s, estimated taxes, and annual report deadlines.
October 8, 2026 · 7 min read
How to Pay Yourself as a Founder: Salary vs. Distributions
Learn how founders legally pay themselves through W-2 salary, owner's draws, or S-corp distributions, plus the tax and compliance tradeoffs of each.
October 7, 2026 · 6 min read
83(b) elections explained: the 30-day decision that saves founders millions
Learn what an 83(b) election is, why founders must file within 30 days of receiving restricted stock, and the step-by-step process to file correctly.
October 6, 2026 · 5 min read
Quarterly estimated taxes: a founder's simple guide
Learn who must pay quarterly estimated taxes, the 2026 due dates, how to calculate payments, and how to avoid IRS underpayment penalties as a founder.
October 5, 2026 · 4 min read
Business Bank Account for Startups: What to Look for in 2026
How startups should evaluate a business bank account in 2026: FDIC insurance and sweep networks, fintech vs. bank differences, fees, and a step-by-step.
October 4, 2026 · 6 min read
What Is a Working Capital Line of Credit and When Should a Startup Use One?
A plain-English guide to working capital lines of credit for startups: how they work, what lenders want, costs, and when to use one instead of venture.
October 3, 2026 · 6 min read
How Payroll Taxes Actually Work for a First-Time Founder
A plain-English walkthrough of how payroll taxes work once you hire your first employee, including FICA, FUTA, SUTA, and Form 941 deadlines.
October 2, 2026 · 5 min read
LLC vs C-Corp: Which Entity Should Your Startup Choose?
Compare LLC vs C-Corp for your startup across taxes, fundraising, and QSBS benefits so you can pick the right entity before you incorporate.
October 1, 2026 · 5 min read