Forms of Business Licenses and PermitsPosted by Raymond Raahauge on May 12th, 2021 The very last thing you want to determine after starting your business is that you have failed to conform to regulations by not filing for the proper permits for the business. Before establishing a small business, you should focus on your town, city, and county regulations. In most locations, every business requires a basic license to create a tax registration certificate. Aside from this, other permits and licenses may be required as well. Business licenses and permits are issued at all levels of government - federal, state and local (city, county, or town). Dependant on the kind of business you are running, you may want to apply for licenses at multiple levels. For instance, if you decide to open a restaurant in the town of San Francisco, you will require a business license and health permit from the city of SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, sales tax license from hawaii of California and a federal tax ID number from the U.S. federal government. Not sure which kind of license or permit you will need for your business venture? Well, as usual, we've managed to get simple for you. Below is a quick checklist covering the most common federal, state, and local licenses and enables you may need to acquire before commencing business: 營業執照 Business License - It is the basic license that you'll need to operate a small business legally. If the business is located within city limits, a license should be obtained from the town; if outside, it is procured from the county. Contact your city's business license department to file a credit card applicatoin. Also remember that you should pay an annual fee. Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) - Also referred to as a tax identification number, that is required for almost all types of businesses. Depending on where your organization is located, you may also need to acquire a similar tax identification number from your state. Zoning and Land Use Permits - Before you begin your business, you must find out if the space you are likely to use is properly zoned for the type of usage that is planned. You may need a zoning compliance permit. Zoning laws regulate off-street parking, waste disposal, and the size, construction and keeping signs. Health Department Permits - If your business involves the preparation and/or sale of food, you will need a county health department permit. Remember that medical department will inspect your facilities before issuing one. Sales Tax License - This license is essential before you can sell almost any product or service in any state. Fire Department Permits - Businesses such as for example restaurants, day-care centers or any that attract a big crowd need a permit from the fire department. Special State-Issued Business Licenses or Permits - You might need special licenses if your business involves the sale of certain forms of products including liquor, lottery tickets, gasoline and firearms. Special State-Issued Occupational / Professional Licenses - In lots of states, people in certain occupations must have licenses or occupational permits. State licensing is normally necessary for auto mechanics, plumbers, electricians, building contractors, collection agents, insurance agents, real estate brokers, repossessors and personal providers (beauticians, cosmetologists, therapists and masseurs). For anyone who is thinking of starting any of these businesses, you will need to pass state examinations to get the permit. Contact your state government offices to get a complete list of occupations that require licensing. Special Federal Business Licenses or Permits - You may even require special business licenses from the government if your business involves investment advising, drug manufacturing, preparation of meat products, broadcasting, manufacturing tobacco, alcohol or firearms. Licensing and invite requirements for small businesses vary from state to state; hence, it is a good idea that you can contact your state and local government to look for the specific obligations for your new business.Like it? Share it! More by this author |