Start a SME's Business, Step-by-step

Start a Business, Step-by-step

When you start a business, you need to do more than decide whether to incorporate or not; you need to choose a name and register with various Government,federal, state and local Bodies / agencies. You may also need certain Licenses / Tax Number and permits.

Choose an Entity Type


There are many ways to own or organize your business, ranging from being a sole proprietor to forming a Private Limited or Public Limited / corporation.
Choose a Name

Before you select your business name, you should understand service marks, corporate names and the importance of selecting a name that is not already in use.Obtain Necessary Licenses or Tax Number and Permits
Many types of businesses need a license to operate. Local governments issue some types of licenses, while state agencies issue others. You may also need building, environmental or other types of permits from state or local government. See Business
> Licensing, Permitting & Regulation to learn more.

File "doing-business-as" Certificate

Many businesses, regardless of how they are owned or organized, must file for a business certificate, also known as a d.b.a. (doing-business-as) certificate, with the clerk of the city or town in which the business is located. Consult your city or town government for more information.

Obtain Federal Employer /Company Incorporated / Tax Number / Identification Number (EIN)
Before you become an employer and hire employees, you need an EIN. You can apply for an EIN online with the Internal Revenue Service.

Register with the State as a Taxpayer

The types of taxes you will be liable for depend on what line of business you're in and other factors. Use WebFile for Business to register as a new state business taxpayer and file state withholding, unemployment insurance, quarterly wage reports and several other tax types online. See also Business > Taxes & Reporting.

Certificates of Service / Manufacturing Category.

Businesses sometimes need proof, in the form of a 'Certificate of Good Standing' or a 'Certificate of Compliance' from the Department of Revenue (DOR), that all state tax liabilities have been met. (For example, in order to obtain a liquor license.)