Business Permits and Licenses
To legally operate a business, acquire permits and licenses. Requirements vary based on location, industry, and business structure. Research specific permits for your business.
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Common licenses and permits include general licenses to operate legally, health and safety permits, activity licenses, goods sale licenses, zoning permits for customer-facing businesses.
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Applying online can take one to two days. A sari-sari store needs a permit despite being a micro-enterprise. Online sellers may need permits to legally use business names and make transactions.
Required Documents and Process
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Prepare valid IDs, address proof, lease contracts or land titles, and DTI registration certificates. Get barangay clearance then a Mayor’s Permit.
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States have different regulations. Research or consult an attorney on your state’s business permit requirements before applying.
Business License Application
- How do you get a business license? Submit a business license application in person or online. Present your business entity paperwork showing your startup will operate as a DBA, corporation, or LLC. Pay the fee. Comply with any special license rules based on your industry type.
Types of Licenses and Permits
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How to know which license you need? You need approval any time you do anything that deals with consumerism. A business license shows you have the government’s approval to sell.
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Some licenses and permits are industry and location specific. Check with state agencies on required licenses and permits.
Cost and Timing
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The cost of a business license can be anywhere from $15 to $300. Sales tax is only necessary for specified kinds of enterprises and structures and varies by state, and more specifically, by city and county.
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How long to get a permit? Local governments now require releasing business permits and licenses in one to two days. What about a micro-enterprise like a sari-sari store? A sari-sari store is a micro-enterprise but still needs a business permit to operate legally.
Starting a business requires planning. Obtain permits and licenses to ensure compliance and avoid issues. Requirements vary based on location, industry, and structure. Research permits needed for your specific business.
Common licenses and permits include:
- General business licenses to operate legally, health and safety permits, federal licenses for activities, state licenses to sell goods, local fire department permits for high-customer businesses, zoning permits to operate in areas.