Prior to registering your business in Massachusetts, you must decide on a business structure. There will be different requirements for each type of business structure that you must comply with accordingly. You might also want to check if you fit into the special versions of these business structures.
The next step is to check the Secretary of State database for your business name. If your chosen name is available, you can file for its registration. You need to register for licenses and permits that apply to your business. The location of your business will also determine the permits that will be required. If you offer professional services, you must secure additional license and permit.
Next is to register for and file payment for your tax. There are a variety of taxes that you must register for and pay and you can do that through the MassTax Connect website. You should also secure an Employee Identification Number when you plan on hiring employees for your business.
Aside from tax, you must also secure your business insurance. This is another regulatory requirement in the state if you want to legally operate your business. Check the type of business that you have because the requirement will also vary accordingly.
Since 2002, the state of Massachusetts is divided into five counties with 45 cities and 306 townships.
In most counties, the commissioners, which are elected in a four-year term, have the executive and judicial authority. Other county officials include the sheriff, county treasurer, court clerk, register of probate and family court, and register of deeds.
All cities in the state of Massachusetts are overseen by mayors and city councils. Towns, on the other hand, are governed by selectmen, who are elected to either one-year or two-year terms. Town meetings, which is the custom since the colonial period, where every taxpayer has an equal voice in the town government, is still practiced. Towns with less than 6,000 residents may hold their own respective town meetings limited to their elected officials.
There are also a total of 82 public school districts and 403 special districts in the state.
The state is considered an important player in national politics. In fact, there have been five Presidents in the US that were from the state.
See the main Massachusetts Page for county links.© State & Local 1995-2023