California also known as the Golden State Bear, has the largest economy in the United States, no wonder why is home of many entrepreneurs. However trying to get a business license might be quite a headache, so, in this article, we are going to let you know the steps to follow and help you get yourself on business.
Something very important to know is that to encourage small businesses to settle in the state, the government, through some of its offices, supports entrepreneurs providing them with vital information and incentives like the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz), or The Office of Small Business Advocate (OSBA).
Once you have decided your business structure (Corporation, LLC, Sole Proprietorship, etc.), you must obtain a business license or a business tax certificate (some cities refer to this permit as a tax certificate). County bases will be responsible for businesses operated in unincorporated sections of the state. Depending on the jurisdiction where your establishment will be located; the application could be filed online, by postal mail, or in person. You have to keep in mind, in case your start-up operates in different jurisdictions, that you might be required by local authorities to obtain a business license in each city your business operates in. Usually, information as the owner’s and business’ name, as well as some addresses, will be required. Contact information, line of business, and federal tax ID number will be required as well. The state government through its offices offers a listing of links to California County Websites as well as California City Websites to help guide your search for licensing information. You can also search county websites by visiting the California State Association of Counties. As a recommendation, you should check on theCalifornia Government Online to Desktops (CalGOLD) if your commercial activity requires a Specific Licensing for Regulated Professions and Industries.
In some cases; business owners can use a fictitious name or a D.B.A. (Doing Business As), but this is not a requirement, it is up to you if you want to take advantage of this option offered by the State of California, either legally or for marketing purposes. If you want to use it, keep in mind that you will have to: choose a name, check availability, get the necessary forms and make it known by placing an ad in a local newspaper for four weeks.