Business License - How to Get One

Get a Business License 1-2-3

3 Steps to Getting a Business License:

In most cases, a company will need a business license to operate. The licenses and permits needed will depend on the type of business and the location of the company. Apply for a license online.

1. Find out which licenses and permits are required by your city or county. This is as easy as asking your local city or county government office. You can even find your city office online. Many offices now have applications that you can download or fill out and submit online. Sometimes, you will need to visit your local government office to submit your application.

2. Submit your application. Submitting a business license application is fairly quick and painless. Forms are usually just a few pages and sometimes only a single page. Basic information is needed, such as firm name, contact details and location, individuals affiliated with the company and type of establishment.

3. Get your certificate. Once an application is approved, the business license is generally mailed to the business owner within a few weeks. A temporary certificate is issued in the meantime. Licenses need to be renewed annually, along with a renewal fee. Get a business license.

"Do I Need a Business License for a Home Business?"

How to Find Out if Your Home Business Needs a License: Contact your local office: find your city's contact information (listed by state). You can also find out which licenses and permits you need at the Small Business Administration website.

Need Help with Your Business License Application?
You can also get help from BizFilings and apply online. They can research which licenses you need and send you all applicable license, permit and tax registration applications. You also get complete filing instructions.

More Small Business Resources:

How to Apply for a Federal Tax ID Number
You get a Federal Tax ID Number, or Employer ID Number (EIN), from the IRS. You can apply through their website, by phone, fax or mail. For fastest service, apply online. It can take up to five weeks to get your EIN if you apply by mail.

The EIN you receive is your permanent number and can be used for business tasks such as opening a business bank account, applying for a business license or filing a tax return.

If you don't know if you need a Federal Tax ID Number for your business, answer these questions. If you already have a Tax ID Number, but have misplaced it, you can call the Business and Specialty Tax Line at (800) 829-4933 and have them look it up for you.

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