Register and License Your Business

Rochester City Hall
Photo Credit: City of Rochester

No matter what kind of business you will be developing, you’ll need to address legal structure and EIN.

Legal Structure

You’ll want to make sure your business is legal. The first step is to decide what kind of business entity (legal structure) is best for you. For a description of the pros and cons of legal structures, go to forms of business organization.

Employee Identification Number (EIN or FEIN)

Employers with employees, business partnerships, and corporations must obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the U.S. Internal Revenue Service. Even if you are a sole proprietor and don’t have employees, it is still good practice to obtain an EIN…you may need it for some government forms, banks often require it for loans and it can be used instead of your personal Social Security Number to protect against identify theft.

Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) online

The General Process

Step 1: Create a business plan

For any business, the first step is to turn your basic idea into a written, viable plan of action. A well-thought out business plan is necessary for obtaining loans and is a model for your success. Refer to the Business Planning section.

Step 2: Decide on your business structure and register your business name

Careful consideration must be given to the management, structural and tax implications of your decision. While not a replacement for sound legal or tax advice, see Selecting a Business Structure.

  • To register a business name for a sole proprietorship or general partnership: Contact your local county recorder where you intend to do business.
  • To file a Corporation, LLC, LLP, or Limited Partnership, contact the Secretary of State’s office for application forms and filing requirements.

Step 3: Get license requirements

The State may require additional license or business registration paperwork to be completed. It is also important to check with city/town & county governments where you intend to do business to determine licensing requirements.

Step 4: Obtain the necessary tax information

Taxation for small businesses may be simple or complex, depending on the size and business structure. The tax liability for each business will be different and you should consult your attorney and accountant regarding comprehensive tax planning.

Step 5: Identify sources of financing

Refer to the financing section of the website for more information. Also use The Resource Navigator to do a search for organizations that provide financing.

Step 6: Learn about employer reporting requirements and responsibilities

As an employer, you will be responsible for additional employment insurance and worker’s compensation insurance. This includes applying for federal and state withholding numbers.

  • For Federal Identification Numbers (EINs) contact the Internal Revenue Service or call (800) 829-4933
  • For State Sales Tax and State Withholding Tax contact the State Department of Revenue.