The state of Georgia does not require a general business license. Certain types of businesses need specific licenses from the government to operate. Georgia does not issue business licenses at the state-level, but you may need to obtain a business license from the county or city where your business is located. You’ll need to contact your county and city to determine your licensing requirements.
Obtaining a Business License in Georgia
- You can obtain a Georgia business license online.
- If you are a business selling products at retail, you’ll need a sales tax identification number.
- A buying service license is valid for one year and costs $50.
License Requirements for Professionals
- Certified Public Accountant License: Accountants who wish to become a CPA in Georgia must designate and provide specific services, such as auditing financial statements and obtaining a CPA license from Georgia’s Board of Accountancy.
- Attorney License: Georgia Business Attorneys must obtain a license to practice law in a particular jurisdiction, typically by passing the state’s bar examination and meeting other requirements set by the Georgia bar association.
Before starting a small business in Georgia, there are several licenses, permits, and tax registrations that you may need to obtain. The specific requirements vary depending on the type of business you plan to operate, as well as the location of your business.
Do all businesses in Georgia need a business license?
Georgia does not require a general business license. You may need to get a license from the county or city your business is in. Contact them to see if you need a license.
Some licenses you may need in Georgia: Sales tax ID if selling products. $50 annual buying service license. Name reservation for $25 to ensure your business name is available.
CPAs need a license from Georgia’s Board of Accountancy, by passing the exam and meeting requirements. Attorneys need a Georgia bar license by passing the state bar and meeting requirements.
Licensing depends on your business location and activities. Atlanta requires a license for businesses in city limits. Licenses also required for selling alcohol, bakeries, game rooms, etc.
Most cities require an occupational tax certificate. Costs vary based on receipts and employees.
You’ll need a registered agent with a Georgia address to accept legal documents. Pay $100 filing fee online or $110 on paper.
Get necessary licenses and insurance. Consult resources like the Secretary of State’s Guide, Chamber of Commerce, and Tax Center.
Some businesses need licenses like: General Business License for retail, services, manufacturing. Ensures compliance. Sales and Use Tax Certificate if selling tangible goods or taxable services. Alcohol License to sell alcohol. Food Sales License to sell food.
Georgia doesn’t require a state general business license. You need a city or county operating license. If your industry needs professional licenses, get those too.
Pros: tax incentives, low corporate taxes, affordable real estate, high-skill workers, major airport hub. Cons: low average wages, high startup costs in some cities.
You can apply for a business license with the relevant agency for your business location and activities. Provide basic info like LLC name, EIN, address.
Do I need a business license in GA to sell online?
The state of Georgia does not require a general business license. You may need to get a license from the county or city your business is in. Contact them to see if you need a license.
Some licenses you may need in Georgia: Sales tax ID if selling products. $50 annual buying service license. Name reservation for $25 to ensure your business name is available.
CPAs need a license from Georgia’s Board of Accountancy, by passing the exam and meeting requirements. Attorneys need a Georgia bar license by passing the state bar and meeting requirements.
Licensing depends on your business location and activities. Atlanta requires a license for businesses in city limits. Licenses also required for selling alcohol, bakeries, game rooms, etc.
You’ll need a registered agent with a Georgia address to accept legal documents. Pay $100 filing fee online or $110 on paper.
Get necessary licenses and insurance. Consult resources like the Secretary of State’s Guide, Chamber of Commerce, and Tax Center.
Pros: tax incentives, low corporate taxes, affordable real estate, high-skill workers, major airport hub. Cons: low average wages, high startup costs in some cities.
You can apply for a business license with the relevant agency for your business location and activities. Provide basic info like LLC name, EIN, address.