Most business of any appreciable size need to be registered with government agencies. The exception is small, one-person business, sole proprietorships, which can carry out many types of operations without any formal registration.
Registering Your Business
Where and When to Register
In the United States, you do not technically need a registered business. However, there are regulations that apply to online businesses and their owners.
Required Capital and Permits
What is the minimum paid up capital for private limited company? Since the small business regulation is tied to certain turnover limits, you can of course set up several companies. However, the small business regulation may only be registered once per person.
Can you sell without a business permit? No, it is highly discouraged to sell without a business permit.
The Process of Starting a Small Business
From coming up with a business idea to creating a business plan and marketing your business, we’ll cover everything you need to get started.
Understanding Registration and Licenses
Some regulated businesses require a registered entity to operate. Registration costs vary by state and structure. Employers should check with the appropriate state department for pricing. Records needed depend on structure and location. But they can include articles of incorporation, EIN documentation, licenses, permits and more.
Your industry may require a trade license to operate locally. Food businesses must register at the federal level with the USDA. At state and local levels, check with your department of state or city/county registrar.
Becoming an entrepreneur means understanding registration. This may differ based on location and operations, but basics are the same.
State Specifics and Sole Proprietorship
Different States, Different Rules
Registration steps depend on your structure, location, and industry. For sole proprietors, a "doing business as" form may suffice.
You don’t legally have to register a sole proprietorship under your own name. But doing so doesn’t provide legal protection from debt or lawsuits. You also can’t legally use any business name besides your own until registered locally and federally.