CA: Setting Up Your Business in California
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Set Up Your Business in California | California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA) Setting Up Your Business in California Whether you’re starting a brand-new business, expanding or relocating, avoid expensive mistakes by making sure your entity is registered and permitted as required by State laws. Pick Your Business Location Your operating address determines zoning, taxes, and regulations. Choose a Business Structure Choose a business structure that strikes the right balance of legal protections and benefits. Choose a Business Name Your name is your brand so it must reflect all the aspects of your business plan. Register Your Business Register your business as a legal entity in the State of California. Get Federal & State Tax ID Numbers Be prepared to pay your state and federal taxes on time. Apply for Licenses and Permits Make sure you know what is required for your location and activities. Open a Business Bank Account Your name is your brand so it must reflect all the aspects of your business plan. Get Business Insurance Protect yourself from accidents, disasters, and lawsuits. You are a California business if any of these statements are true: Your business has a physical presence in the state You have frequent in-person meetings with clients in the state A significant portion of your revenue comes from the state Any of your employees work in the state Getting coaching from a business advisor in our small business center network is always a good idea for this process. Find a Business Advisor Pick Your Business Location Your business address is a highly strategic decision: it determines the taxes, zoning laws, regulations your business must operate under as well as impacting your cost of doing business. Do your homework considering these factors: Your target market and customer Cost of living and cost of commercial leases Transportation accessibility for workers and suppliers Permitting & licensing and other regulatory requirements State and local taxes Access to suppliers and business services Workforce availability Zoning Your personal preferences Using your home or office address as your business address may not always be the best option. A registered agent is a third-party entity that acts as your business address and receives important legal and tax documents on your behalf. A registered agent can provide privacy and anonymity, create a professional image and credibility, simplified mail and document management, and compliance with state regulations. Be sure to do your research and choose a reputable provider. Whether you will be a home-based business or will occupy commercial space, consult your local planning department to be sure your business activities are permitted. If your business will be located in an unincorporated area, consult the county. Consult with your local Small Business Center and local economic development teams including economic development corporations, chambers of commerce and workforce developm