In most states, forming an LLC doesn't require a business license, but you'll need to follow your state's procedures. But even if you don't need a business license to form an LLC, you probably need one to operate the LLC as a company. Do you want to start a small business in New York? You may need to obtain one or more state licenses or permits, or complete one or more types of state registration, as part of the start-up process. Below are some of the main information resources available and some of the steps you may need to take.
They serve separate purposes and a business license cannot be replaced by an LLC. Both are necessary if you want to legally operate an LLC in a given city, county, or state. There is no general New York State business license, however, many cities require businesses to be licensed to operate.
Business registration
rules vary by location and type of business.Below are some cities that have licensing requirements. If you have plans to start an LLC in New York, you may have begun to look at what it will take to get your business up and running. In addition to licenses related to professions and occupations (see below), your company may need licenses or permits related to things such as agriculture, food, the environment, or the sale of certain products (such as alcoholic beverages). When a company has more than one line of business, or when a company name is not available in a state, they are expanding their operations to make the DBA useful.
For more information on taxes and business requirements in New York State, visit the New York Secretary of State page here. The site also links to the state's Online Business Assistant, where you can enter details about your specific business and automatically generate a list of the licenses and permits you'll need. If you're opening a business in New York City, use the NYC Business site to determine your permitting and licensing needs. Your LLC may require a business license or several licenses, depending on the type of business you are going to run.
If you have a business license but don't have an LLC or other legal business entity, you can still operate your business as a sole owner. A DBA doesn't allow you to participate in any specific business activity; it simply allows you to use another name for the company you already have permission to conduct. Opening a beauty salon or child care center would also need to meet the state's requirements for a business license. It is recommended that you obtain the required business licenses and permits before engaging in any business activity to ensure that you fully comply with local regulations.
This would be the case of bar associations or medical boards for companies such as law and medicine. New York State requires all companies to file a Biennial Return every two years in the month of the LLC's anniversary. Some common professions that require licensing in New York include; cosmetologists, barbers, sports coaches, home inspectors, and many more. There is no fixed fee for a business license in New York, as each company will need its own type of license, if at all.
Kimberlee Leonard has taken her professional experience as an insurance agency owner and financial advisor and has translated it into a financial writing career that helps business owners and professionals succeed.
