With the right steps to business licensing, registering your business can be done in seven easy steps. The below are general steps to licensing and may vary state to state. Make sure you always check with your local and state licensing agencies for regulations in your area. Not sure how to proceed?
That's where we come in.

Research the Local Requirements

Before obtaining a license, research the local requirements in the area in which you choose to operate your business. Determine your business jurisdiction to learn more about the codes and regulations.

If you choose to operate as a legal business entity (Limited Liability Company, Limited Partnership, Limited Liability Partnership, Corporation, Foreign Corporation, and Non-Profit Corporation, and Non-Profit Corporation) you must file with the Secretary of State in which you are operating.

To obtain a State business license, apply with the Secretary of State where your business will be located. Licensing may vary state to state, so check with your local and state agencies for a complete list of licenses.

EIN is also known as a federal tax identification number and is used to identify a business entity for the life of the business. It is obtained through the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

Register your business with the County Clerk's Office in the state you choose to operate. You will file your DBA (Doing Business As) Fictitious Firm Name to conduct your business.

Visit the Department of Taxation in your local area to learn about State Tax Information specific to your business. You will learn about sales-tax, use-tax, tax-liability, and the business tax filing process for your business.

Determine your business jurisdiction prior to obtaining a business license.

Local Business Licenses Based on the jurisdiction your business falls under, licenses for your business entity are issued by the local business licensing office of the same jurisdiction if conducting business or a tangible trade in more than one jurisdiction, then multiple licenses may be necessary.

Determine your business jurisdiction prior to obtaining a business license.

State Business Licenses Depending on the nature of your business, a state license may be required before obtaining a local business license. Check with local agencies in your area to find out what additional licenses may be necessary — or call us at 702.227.7393.