Registering your business in New Jersey takes only a few simple steps. First and foremost, you have to select your business structure. This will determine the steps you need to take and the requirements you have to provide upon registration.
In general, you must start by registering your business name. Make sure to look at existing business and trade names in New Jersey to see if your chosen name is still available. If it is, you may proceed with the registration process. To register, go to the County Clerk's office in your county and follow the steps to register your chosen trade name. The name filing is valid for 5 years and needs to be renewed so you can legally use that name for business purposes.
You must also obtain Employer Identification Number (EIN) with the IRS or the New Jersey Department of Taxation. It is required for all businesses with employees. You must also register your business for tax purposes. Go to the New Jersey Treasury office or website to learn more about the processes involved.
For certain types of businesses, you must secure additional licenses and permits, as well as insurance, before you can open your doors. This is a legal requirement for all businesses in New Jersey.
New Jersey is divided into 21 counties, which are classified based on population and their proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. There are also 324 municipalities and 242 townships in New Jersey.
Each city, borough, and town in the state of New Jersey use different government systems. Among the government systems currently in use are the mayor-council system, council-manager system, commission system, among others. The majority of towns and villages are administered by either a committee council or by a council-mayor with limited powers.
Like counties, cities are classified based on their population and locations. Those with more than 150,000 residents are classified as first-class cities, while 12,000 to 150,000 are classified as second-class. Those with fewer populations are categorized as third and fourth class.
The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs manages the budget for all local units and municipal aid programs.
There are also 549 public school districts and 276 special districts in the state.
See the main New Jersey Page for county links.© State & Local 1995-2023