Creating your account
Sign up on Shopify's website with a business email you check often. Shopify asks a few questions about what you sell; your answers only shape suggestions, so do not worry about them. Use a strong password and turn on two-step verification, which asks for a code from your phone when you log in. This protects your store and money.
Store details and contact information
In Settings, enter your store name, the contact email customers will see, your business address, and the currency you sell in. Shopify uses your address for tax and shipping settings. If you work from home and do not want your address public, check what will show on invoices and policies, and consider a business mailing address. Make sure your contact email is one you answer.
Choosing a plan
When your trial ends, you choose a paid plan. Start with the plan that covers what you need now, not what you might need someday. You can usually change plans later. Read what each plan includes on the official pricing page, and note your billing date.
Your domain
A domain is your web address. Shopify gives every store a free address ending in myshopify.com. A custom domain, like dollsbydana.com (a fictional example), looks more professional. You can buy one through Shopify or connect one you bought from another company. Domains renew yearly, so keep the renewal date in your calendar. The Domain Names & Business Email lesson explains choosing a name.
A real-world example
Dana creates her store with her business email, turns on two-step verification, enters a mailing address instead of her home address, and connects the domain she already bought. She writes the plan billing date and domain renewal date on her calendar.
Steps to take
- Sign up with a business email.
- Turn on two-step verification.
- Fill in store name, contact email, address, and currency.
- Pick the plan that fits your current needs.
- Connect or buy a custom domain.
- Add billing and renewal dates to your calendar.
Setup check
This checklist is optional and not saved. Copy it to keep a personal note. Do not enter sensitive information.
Go deeper in related modules
Not sure what a word means? Check Business Words Made Simple.
Official guidance
Use these official sources for current rules and details. They do not replace advice for your particular business.
- Shopify Help: Domains (opens in a new tab)
Official steps to buy or connect a domain.
- Shopify pricing (opens in a new tab)
Current plans, trials, and fee details. Check before choosing.
- Shopify Help Center (opens in a new tab)
Official how-to articles for every part of the store admin.
