Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

Do I need licenses for my business?

Accepted Answer

You may need licenses, permits, and registrations to legally run your business and meet all local, county, state, and federal requirements. The exact number of business licenses you need to register for depends on your industry, location, and business activities. On average, our business license customers require at least 6 licenses to operate legally.

Question 2

When do I need a business license?

Accepted Answer

You typically should get every license or permit you need before you start operating your business or open your doors to the public. Otherwise, you could face fines and other penalties. Once you have your permits, it’s important to display them properly, as well as make copies for your records and keep track of renewal dates.

Question 3

Who issues business licenses?

Accepted Answer

They're issued by all levels of government—city, county, state, and federal—so you might need to apply with various agencies and departments. Our service makes that part easy by finding the permits you need at every governmental level and providing easy access to apply.

Question 4

Why are business licenses required?

Accepted Answer

There are two common reasons: A business license helps protect the public's health and safety and identifies businesses so they can be held accountable for their actions. To cover each of these requirements, most businesses have multiple licenses, especially in more complex industries.

Question 5

Do all businesses need licenses?

Accepted Answer

Most businesses need at least one, and determining which licenses you need for your business and location can be complicated. Fortunately, our service helps make this easier for you.

Question 6

What are some common licenses and permits?

Accepted Answer

Common examples include a home occupation permit, zoning permit, building permit, seller's permit, fire and police department permit, and health permit.

Question 7

What business licenses do I need?

Accepted Answer

It depends what kind of business you run and where you're located. We can make this easier by determining this for you based on your business info.

Question 8

How much does a business license cost?

Accepted Answer

Our service to help you find which licenses and permits you may need costs $99/year, but the cost of the individual business license application varies, depending on where you are, the type of business you operate, and the permit you need. One license may cost nothing while others can get quite expensive. Keep in mind that securing the required licenses is necessary to protect your business from fees, penalties, and potential closure.

Question 9

Do I need a license to operate my business from home?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the type of business you run and where you're located. In many locations, you may need a home occupation permit. Running your business out of your home doesn't necessarily exempt you from needing certain licenses or permits and may result in additional requirements.

Question 10

Do I need a business license to sell online?

Accepted Answer

Whether you need a business license to sell online depends on your product, service, and location. Generally, business licenses like a seller's permit or a sales tax permit are required for online sellers. 
Business licensing rules vary between states and cities and the sale of specific items may be subject to additional regulations.

Question 11

Do you need a business license to sell on Etsy?

Accepted Answer

If your Etsy operation is a business as determined by the IRS, you will likely need business licenses as required by the state, county, and local agencies in your specific location. Generally, business licenses like a seller's permit or a sales tax permit are required for online sellers. 
Business licensing rules vary between states and cities and the sale of specific items may be subject to additional regulations. We can help you figure out what your Etsy business needs.

Question 12

What do I need to do to stay compliant with business licenses and permits on an ongoing basis?

Accepted Answer

Managing business licenses involves maintaining up-to-date records of all licenses, tracking expiration dates, promptly renewing licenses before they expire, and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations. You'll also need to monitor for any changes to your licensing requirements and respond accordingly to avoid penalties or disruption to your business. Our Business License Report & Management service helps ensure you meet these requirements and keep your business operating legally.

Save time finding and managing the business licenses you need

Call an agent at (855) 787-1922