Listed below are links to basic federal tax information for people who are starting a business, as well as information to assist in making basic business decisions. The list should not be construed as all-inclusive. Other steps may be appropriate for your specific type of business. Want to start your own business? Here’s how to do it in nine swift steps You should absolutely try going into business for yourself. If you don’t you’ll always regret not giving it a shot. Two reasons why starting from home can be a good idea: Financial security: Get a good sense (ie MVP = minimum viable product) of whether your business is viable without having to invest or raise money to build out an entire kitchen. Emotional certainty: Starting a business is never easy.
Steps to Starting a Business
Thinking of starting a business? Read this helpful guide from the Business Registration division for a general overview of what’s required to start a business in Hawaiʻi.
Go to PageBusiness Name Search
Use this search to check if the business name you want is available and not already registered by another business.
Note: if you are registering a business entity name, never assume the name is available until you have received a response from the Business Registration Division.
Go to PageRegister a Business Online
Hawaiʻi Business Express is the quick and easy way to start a business online. Simply make an account and log in to instantly submit a filing and receive a receipt. Over time, you can continue to use the site to manage ongoing requirements such as filing your annual report and submitting any changes for your business.
Go to PageRegistration Forms, Fees and Information
In Hawaiʻi, corporations, partnerships, limited liability companies, and limited liability partnerships are registered with the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Business Registration Division (BREG).
See more information about each type of business filing, including a complete fee schedule.
Go to PageBusiness Action Center
The Business Action Center has offices in Honolulu, Maui, and Hawaiʻi counties. By visiting an office you can:
- Register a business entity, trade name, trademark, or submit other filings with the Department of Commerce & Consumer Affairs’ Business Registration Division
- Get help with applying for a general excise tax (GET) license from the Department of Taxation and receive information on how to apply for a federal employer identification number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service
- Obtain information about registering online as an employer with the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations
- Learn about business counseling and workshops offered by other agencies and other resources available to business owners
Step 1: Write a Business Plan
Use these tools and resources to create a business plan. This written guide will help you map out how you will start and run your business successfully.
Step 2: Get Business Assistance and Training
Take advantage of free training and counseling services, from preparing a business plan and securing financing, to expanding or relocating a business.
Step 3: Choose a Business Location
Get advice on how to select a customer-friendly location and comply with zoning laws.
Step 4: Finance Your Business
Find government backed loans, venture capital and research grants to help you get started.
Step 5: Determine the Legal Structure of Your Business
Decide which form of ownership is best for you: sole proprietorship, partnership, Limited Liability Company (LLC), corporation, S corporation, nonprofit or cooperative.
Step 6: Register a Business Name ('Doing Business As')
Register your business name with your state government.
Step 7: Get a Tax Identification Number
Learn which tax identification number you'll need to obtain from the IRS and your state revenue agency.
- Internal Revenue Service - Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) Online
Step 8: Register for State and Local Taxes
Register with your state to obtain a tax identification number, workers' compensation, unemployment and disability insurance.
- Obtain your Georgia State Tax ID number from the Georgia Tax Center
- Report wage and tax information to the Georgia Department of Labor and pay any unemployment insurance taxes due on those wages
- Georgia State Board of Worker's Compensation
Step 9: Obtain Business Licenses and Permits
How To Start A Business With No Money
Get a list of federal, state and local licenses and permits required for your business.
Step 10: Understand Employer Responsibilities
Go the extra mile: Stay Green!
- Get a bike rack for your business
- Get recycling set up for your business
- Encourage your employees to explore alternative transportation options with Clean Air Campaign
Sources: Small Business Administration, City of Atlanta, State of Georgia
Open a restaurant
Special events permit
City
Invest Atlanta
Startup Atlanta
Office of Buildings
Office of Revenue
Atlanta Police Department
Department of Public Works
Department of Watershed Management
County
State
What Georgia employers need to know
Small Business Incentives from the Georgia Department of Economic Development
Georgia Business Guide
Community Development & Finance Division of the Georgia Department of Community Affairs
Georgia Chamber of Commerce
Federal
Small Business Administration
Small Business & Self-Employed Tax Center
IRS Small Business Tax Kit (free PDF download)
How To Start A Business Online
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