Small Business License

The answer to the question "Do I need a small business license?" is often "yes". Many city, county and state governments require business owners to register their small business and obtain a business license.

Some cities require that a home based business pay a surcharge or charge certain taxes. In order to find out what your city requires contact your city hall and ask about the laws that effect local home based businesses.

• Local Business Licenses

  A small business license is based on the city, state and county where you operate your business and each of these will have different requirements for licenses depending on the type of small business. A county or city license is a simple, general license that allows you to legally operate a business within a certain city or county jurisdiction. Usually fees are low for these business licenses and they are easy to obtain. Most home based businesses will be required to file an application for a local business license or permit from their city or county. To obtain a local small business license contact your city hall or county government offices to find out the kind of license you need and to get the necessary application documents.

• Where to Get Information on Business Licenses

  One of the best places to go to find out about a small business license and other home business requirements is www.business.gov The site's Permit Me tool allows you to get a listing of federal, state and local permits, licenses, and registrations you'll need to run a business. You simply type in the type and location of your small or home business and you'll get a results page showing federal, state and local licenses you'll need along with links to web pages, application forms and instructions.

• State Business Licenses

  These are issued to businesses that provide a service or product regulated by state law. Special state licenses are needed for hairdressers, doctors, lawyers, realtors, building contractors and auto mechanics amongst others who are required to meet state licensing requirements which involves a certain level of certified training. To find out about state license requirements you can contact your local government offices or your Secretary of State. Local libraries can also provide state-specific licensing information.

• Home Occupation Business License and Home Occupation Permit

  When operating a small business from home you may need to get a separate home occupation business license. It is very important when starting a home business to find out whether the zoning laws in your area permit the operation of a home business. Some zoning schemes place restrictions on home businesses. Go to Home Business Licenses and Permits to find out more.

Home Business Permits

Register Your Business Name

Home Business Insurance

Follow the right steps to starting a home business and set yourself up for success.

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