How To Register A New Business In California
Choose a business structure.
How to register a new business in california. Pick a business name. If you are forming a california llc or corporation you will register your legal name when you file your formation documents. Also keep in mind that the name you choose cannot be too close to another company already doing business in california. Generally all businesses that wish to conduct business in california need to register and form their legal entity with the california secretary of state s office file appropriate taxes register as an employer and obtain business licenses and other permits from appropriate cities or counties. Small businesses make up 99 8 of all businesses within the state and employ 48 8 of the state s workforce making them a vital part of the golden state economy.
If you choose to have a different brand name you will need to file a dba. Decide on a business structure. The california business investment services unit provides tailored site selection services for businesses real estate executives and site selection consultants. Generally all businesses that wish to conduct business in california need to register and form their legal entity with the california secretary of state s office file appropriate taxes register as an employer and obtain business licenses and other permits from appropriate cities or counties. A brief overview of the following types of legal business structures available in california can be found on our entity types website.
According to available data california is home to more than 4 million small businesses which employ 7 1 million people across the state. Other key steps for how to register a business in california include. The business has a legal name that is different than its brand name. Use the calgold tool to determine which if any licenses your business needs. Registering with the irs i e get an ein number getting relevant licenses and or permits.
Make sure the name and spelling you want are available before you actually register.