Business Manager Setup Checklist
Follow every step of a clean, policy-friendly Business Manager setup. Tick items off as you go, and your progress is saved in this browser.
Great work, your setup checklist is complete. Double-check your setup with our BM Restriction Risk Checker.
Prefer to have it done for you?
See our Business Manager setup service →Your progress is saved only in this browser on this device. Clearing your browser data will reset it.
How to Use This Checklist
Work through the phases in order and tick each item once it is done. Open "Why & how" on any item to see why it matters and where to find the setting. Your progress is saved in this browser, so you can close the page and continue later on the same device.
Setting up more than one business? Use the Reset button to clear all ticks and start fresh.
Note that Meta now calls Business Manager a "business portfolio" inside Meta Business Suite. The steps are the same, and this checklist uses the name most people still search for.
Why the Order Matters
Identity Comes First
A Business Manager is only as strong as the profile and details behind it. Starting with an established profile and accurate business information prevents most verification problems later.
Security Before You Invite Others
Turning on two-factor authentication and adding a backup admin before inviting other people closes the most common doors to account takeovers. Not sure which role to give each person? Our Access Role Planner can help.
Verification Before Scaling
A verified business with matching payment details looks far more trustworthy to Meta. Completing verification before you increase your budget lowers the risk of a restriction when it matters most.
Common Setup Mistakes to Avoid
- Creating the Business Manager from a brand-new profile.
- Entering business details that do not match official documents.
- Keeping only one admin with no backup.
- Sharing one login between several people.
- Choosing the wrong time zone or currency for the ad account.
- Launching with a high budget on the first day.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a Business Manager setup take?
Most of the steps can be completed in an hour or two. Business verification depends on Meta's review and can take anywhere from a few days to longer.
Is my progress saved?
Yes, in this browser on this device. It is not sent to us, so it will not appear on another device, and clearing your browser data will reset it.
Is a business portfolio the same as a Business Manager?
Yes. Meta renamed Business Manager to business portfolio inside Meta Business Suite. The features and setup steps are the same.
Do I need business verification to run ads?
Not always. Many businesses can start advertising without it, but verification builds trust with Meta and unlocks features that become important as you grow.
Stuck on a Step?
Tell us where you are in the setup and our team will help you finish it the right way.