Step-by-Step Licensing Guide
Step 1: Apply for Hawaii General Business Licenses. To acquire a general excise tax license, small businesses must fill out Form BB-1, a basic business application, which secures the general state license and enrolls them to pay sales tax and use tax with the state of Hawaii Department of Taxation.
Step 2: Identify the Hawaii Licensing Agencies. Depending on your business activity or location, you may need additional licenses or permits from your local government.
Step 3: Complete and Submit License Applications. You can obtain an application through the Business Registration Division of the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs or apply online.
Step 4: Pay License and Permit Fees. Fees vary; for example, a general excise tax permit costs $20, and forming an LLC costs $50.
Step 5: Maintain License and Permit Compliance. Licenses in Hawaii may need to be renewed annually or might not expire.
Additional Considerations
Navigating the legal landscape of starting a business in Hawaii is essential. It is critical to obtain all necessary licenses and permits to ensure legal compliance.
Recommended: Services like LegalZoom can assist in identifying all necessary licenses for a fee, starting at around $99.
Do I Need a Business License in Hawaii? Yes, all new businesses, including sole proprietorships, must file for a GET license and may need to pay additional taxes depending on the industry.
Costs and Types of Licenses
General Business License Costs: It costs $50 to register a business and $20 for a General Excise Tax (GET) license. For an LLC, the fee for filing Articles of Organization is $50, with various additional fees for expedited service or certified copies.
Who Needs a Business License: Anyone selling goods or services in Hawaii needs a business license.
Types of Business Licenses: Common licenses include the General Business License, which covers retail, service, and manufacturing businesses, ensuring compliance with local and state regulations.
Obtaining and Renewing Licenses
How to Obtain: Apply with the relevant licensing or regulatory agency, which depends on your business’s location and activities.
License Renewal: Most business licenses must be renewed annually or do not expire.
Insurance Considerations: Consider obtaining essential business insurance such as General Liability Insurance for protection against financial losses and managing risks.
Conclusion and Getting Started
Ready to start your business in Hawaii? Follow our guide to obtaining the necessary licenses and permits. Ensure that all legal requirements are met before operating your business. For businesses operating in multiple cities, separate licenses for each location might be needed.
Ready to Start: Use this guide and partner with services like LLCBuddy for support throughout the entrepreneurial journey.