How Long Does It Take to Register a Business in DC? Business Registration in Washington D.C.

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The registration process typically takes about 1-4 weeks in most states. You must file the required documents with the Secretary of State and wait for the application to be approved for a Corporation or LLC. Depending on the state, paying an additional fee can shorten this process to 1 to 3 business days.

Fees and Timelines

  • It costs $55 to register a DBA in Washington D.C. with the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs, with renewal every two years.
  • The main cost of forming an LLC is the $220 fee to file your LLC’s Articles of Organization online.
  • The certificate of occupancy may take 30 days to issue. You only need to indicate the DC Certificate of Occupancy number and date on the business license application.

Most businesses just need to get a Basic Business License. Certain activities require a specific license endorsement on the DC Basic Business License. Trade Name Registration Form TN-1 must be completed, and a Certificate of Trade Name Registration will be issued upon approval. The District of Columbia Corporations Division charges a $220 fee to file the Articles of Organization, and reserving a name beforehand will cost $50.

Choosing a Business Name

Choosing a memorable and positively associated name for your Washington DC business is essential. We recommend taking time to choose a name people will remember and associate positively with your business.

Licensing and Permits

  • A DC business license is typically required for most businesses, unless the principals are licensed professionals.
  • It takes one to three business days to form your LLC online or one to two weeks if filing by mail. Zenbusiness can help you decide which permits and licenses are needed to start your business.
  • If your business will operate from an office, you must apply for a certificate of occupancy (COO), which may take up to 30 days to issue.

Key Considerations for Starting a Business

If you’re considering starting a small business in Washington, DC, it’s crucial to develop a detailed business plan, conduct market research, and figure out startup costs. The LLCBase Team has created a guide to assist with these steps. With a population of approximately 683,154, Washington DC offers diverse work opportunities for entrepreneurs.

  • Evaluate your business idea thoroughly and research funding opportunities.
  • The main cost to start an LLC in Washington DC is $99.00 for filing the Certificate of Formation, with a biennial report fee of $300.00.
  • An EIN is required for your Washington DC LLC to open a bank account, file taxes, and run a business.

How to Start a Small Business in Washington D.C.

Thinking of starting a small business in Washington, D.C.? Ensure you have a solid foundation:

  1. Choose a Business Idea
  2. Evaluate business ideas
  3. Read tips on business ideas

Washington is ranked as the 8th best state to start a business due to its strong labor supply and growth prospects. This guide covers everything from drafting a business plan to seeking funding. Remember, all you need besides dedication and hard work is the right information. This step-by-step guide provides insight into launching a business in Washington! Connect on LinkedIn or Twitter to learn more about starting a business in the thriving Pacific Northwest.

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