Getting a business license

If you are thinking about starting a business and applying for business license, don't worry. You have it easier than my 5 year old niece. Right now, she is applying to kindergarten programs in NYC, which is no easy task. It requires taking the ERBs exams, some essays written by mom and dad, and interview (I hear the key to passing the interview is to talk a lot). So the next time you moan and groan about applying for business license, just know that you have it easier than some 5 year olds.

Several websites provide some good tips on how to apply:

1. Score

2. Small Business Association (this is a good place to go to because it lists out all State websites)

3. WikiHow (we like these guys -- great website) Also see their tips below:

1. Starting a business is simple and usually doesn't cost a lot of money. The request for this article was how to start a business/obtain a business license in the state of Mississippi. This guide can work equally as well for any state.
2. First, if you don't know your state's website address, do a google search for it. Once there, look for any links that pertain to business in the state.
3. Look over the site and look for anything referencing starting you own business or getting licensed. In the case of Mississipi, follow this link: http://www.mississippi.org/content.aspx?url=/page/2974& which will take you to the site that lets you download all the information required to start a business.
4. Usually you have to download forms, fill them out and send them into the Secretary of State's office. Depending on the type of business you want to do, you have to select a license to apply for. For example, if you want to sell things online or in a store, you need a Vendor's license.
5. Fill out all the necessary information, read over their tips on starting a business and send in the necessary fees associated with registering your business.
6. After a few weeks, they'll send you a copy of your license and the IRS will send you a paper with your federal tax id on it. For sole proprietorships, your social security number can act as your federal tax id.
7. After you receive this information, you're ready to do business!
8. NOTE: Once you have your business started, you need to collect taxes for the state in which you live. You are supposed to report income generated within the state and to pay sales taxes on it. When you register, they usually send the information on how to report taxes.

Comments

[Minty]

Where can I get a vendor's license?

Thanks.
Minty

[Debbie Smith]

www.businesslicenses.com offers every state and local business license, permit, & tax registration application online for the whole U.S.

[Robert Harris]

Re: "Where can I get a vendor's license?" www.businessnameusa.com can get you all licenses and tax ids for a low fee in 24 hours!

[Marquita Priester]

Hi,

I am interested in starting an online Web Site Development business. What steps should I follow?

Thanks,

[Laura]

I checked out the fees for a business license in my city, GA, and they looked reasonable. Surprise, surprise, though, my tutoring business does not come under a heading that is accepted easily in this city. Tutoring, or any kind of school, requires a conditional permit. I must pay $850 over and above the inspection fee and the license fee in order to have the lease looked at by the city council's lawyer. I must also appear before the city council to try to make a case for my license. The space I rented is surrounded by mortgage companies, a probation office and a security company and a branch of Alcoholics Anonymous. My business has a lower nuisance value, I think, but I still have to pay big-time, up front, for permission to start up.

If I had had any inkling that I would have to pay more than 2 months office rent to have my application reviewed by a lawyer, I would have been more careful to rent an office somewhere else!