Getting Business Licenses and Permits
STATE REQUIREMENTS
While business licensing requirements vary from state to state,
some of the more common types are listed below.
Business Licenses
A state business license is the main document required for tax
purposes and conducting other basic business functions. Many states
have established small business assistance agencies to help small
businesses comply with state requirements.
Occupations and Professions
State licenses are frequently required for occupations as varied
as building contractors, physicians, appraisers, accountants, barbers,
real estate agents, auctioneers, private investigators, private
security guards, funeral directors, bill collectors, and cosmetologists.
Since you can't always guess which occupations and professions are
licensed by your state, you should always check with your state
licensing authorities.
Licenses Based on Products Sold
Some state licensing requirements are based on the product sold.
For example, most states require special licenses to sell liquor,
lottery tickets, gasoline, or firearms. Contact your state licensing
authorities to determine the licensing requirements of your business.
Tax Registration
If the state in which you operate has a state income tax, you'll
have to register and obtain an employer identification number from
your state Department of Revenue or Treasury Department. If you're
engaging in retail sales, you will need to obtain a sales tax license.
Trade Name Registration
If your business will only be operated in your local community,
registering your company name with the state may be sufficient.
Employer Registrations
If you have any employees, you'll probably be required to make
unemployment insurance contributions. For more information, contact
your state Department of Revenue or Department of Labor.
FEDERAL REQUIREMENTS
Employer Identification Number (EIN). With the exception of sole
proprietors, most business types must apply for an EIN regardless
of whether they have employees.
Licenses and Permits
Most businesses do not require a federal license or permit. However,
if you are engaged in one of the following activities, you should
contact the responsible federal agency to determine the requirements
for doing business:
• Investment Advising
• Drug Manufacturing
• Preparation of Meat Products
• Broadcasting
• Ground Transportation
• Selling Alcohol, Tobacco, or Firearms
Federal registration of intellectual property, including patents,
trademarks, trade names, and copyrights, provide business owners
with exclusive use of intellectual property in the US as well as
in a large number of foreign countries.
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