California Local Business, Insurance, and Government Resources

Navigate to:

Business Resources - Anything from getting a business license to finding funding

Local Insurance directory - Find local insurance brokers, agents, or companies

Government Contacts - Get in contact with each level of local government

California Local Business Resources

If you wish to register a business in California, you need to decide on the ownership structure of your business first. The type of business structure (LLC, sole proprietorship, or partnership) will qualify you to certain tax benefits so make sure to choose wisely. The next step is to file the Name Reservation Request Form. Make sure you have conducted a business entity name search prior to make sure your chosen name is still available.

Once you decide on the legal structure of your business entity, you need to obtain different legal and documentary requirements for each. For example, the documents needed to establish a sole proprietorship and that of LLCs differ in California. Check in with the California Secretary of State to learn more about the specific documents required to register your business entity.

At this point, you are ready to embark on tax registration. This can be done online at the Board of Equalization website in California (especially if you are in the business of selling). For businesses with employees, you need an Employer Identification Number through the IRS. Other licenses and permits that you need to accomplish in California include general business license (it could vary from one city to another), regulatory licenses and permits, and professional licenses (for businesses that offer their professional service).

The final steps would be to comply with the zoning permits (for businesses with a physical location) and to obtain the necessary business insurances.

Local Insurance Info, Agents, & Companies in California