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State Requirements for Starting a Business
It may take a little effort to discover which business permits and licenses your state requires. Fortunately, small business assistance agencies set up in every state can help you cut through the bureaucratic thicket. To find contact information for small business assistance agencies in your area, visit the website of the U.S. Small Business Administration at www.sba.gov.
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Local Government Requirements for Starting a Business
Before you open your doors for business, you'll have to look into state, federal, regional, and local requirements that apply to your type of business. On the local level, begin by asking city and county officials about license and permit requirements for your new business. A few larger cities that hope to attract economic growth may have a centralized office that provides this information.
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Federal and Regional Requirements for Starting a Business
Federal Registrations and Licenses Small businesses don’t have to worry about federal permits and licenses, but all businesses must know about federal tax registrations.
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Register With the Local Tax Collector Before Starting Your Business
Most cities require all businesses (including home businesses) to register with the city’s tax collector, regardless of business type, structure, size, or name. Businesses located in rural, unincorporated areas must usually register with the county clerk rather than a city tax collector.
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Registering a Fictitious Business Name
Any trade name that doesn’t contain the legal names of the owners (for sole proprietorships or general partnerships) or that doesn’t match the company’s corporate, limited partnership, or LLC name on file with the state, is called a fictitious business name (FBN).
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The Small Business Start-Up Kit: A Step-by-Step Legal Guide
Find all the information you need to start your business in this complete step-by-step guide.