« Using A Temp Agency To Your Advantage | Home | When Should I Quit My Job? - The Big Question »
Small Business Start Up Information
By selfemployedblog | March 31, 2007
When you decide to start a small business there are several steps you will need to take in order to start off on the right foot. Depending on your area and your type of business, some of the following may not apply. However, they are still worth looking into to be sure you are in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations for running a small business.
Obtaining a Business License
Not all cities require a business license but it is a good idea to visit your city hall or county clerk’s office to find out what is required. The process is very easy and usually is as simple as a couple pages of paperwork and paying a fee.
Seller Permit
If you plan on selling products whether online or offline, chances are you will need to apply for a seller’s permit. You will need to contact your state’s Board of Equalization. If you are not sure where to find this information, your city hall or county clerk should have the details of where to apply as well.
Zoning Permit
Depending on the type of business you plan on running, there may be zoning laws that apply to running it out of your home. If so, you will need to apply for a zoning permit which is also typically handled by your city hall or county clerk’s office.
Filing a Ficticious Business Name or DBA
If you don’t plan on using your name as your business name, then you will need to file for a DBA (do business as.) You will need to do research to make sure the business name you want isn’t already trademarked. Once you file for your DBA, you usually need to have it advertised in your local paper or local business magazines for a period of 3 to 4 weeks. This is also a requirement for most banks in order to open a business checking account.
Tax ID Number
If you’re running your business as a sole proprietor your social security number will suffice as a tax ID. However, if you plan on hiring employees, you will need to apply for an Employer ID Number (EIN) and you can do this through the IRS web site.
The above are typically the main items you will need to look into before starting up your business. Depending on the type of business entity you choose (incorporated, LLC, etc.) will require much more paperwork and legal/accounting advice.
Tags: small business start up, business license, seller’s permit, ein, tax id
Topics: Self Employment |