To register a new business in Georgia, there are several legal steps that you must take. These steps may vary depending on the nature of your business and the form of entity you choose to register as.
- Choose a business name: The first step is to choose a unique name for your business that is not already registered with the Georgia Secretary of State. You may search for available business names on the Georgia Secretary of State's website.
- Determine the form of entity: You must decide on the form of entity that best suits your business, i.e., a sole proprietorship, a partnership, a limited liability company (LLC), an S corporation, or a C corporation. Each type of entity has its own legal and tax implications; therefore, it is advisable to seek legal counsel to determine which form of entity is the best for your business.
- Register with the Georgia Secretary of State: Once you have chosen a unique name and the form of entity, you need to register your business with the Georgia Secretary of State. You may either register online or by mail. The registration fee is $100 for an LLC and $100 for a corporation.
- Obtain the necessary licenses and permits: Depending on the nature of your business, you may need to obtain certain licenses and permits before you can operate in Georgia. For instance, if you are opening a restaurant or a bar, you may need to obtain a food service permit from the Georgia Department of Health.
- Obtain an EIN: Every business is required to have an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for tax purposes. You may obtain an EIN from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) either online or by mail.
In addition to the above steps, you should consider obtaining liability insurance, drafting a business plan, and registering for state and local taxes.
It is advisable to seek legal counsel for guidance on the specific legal steps required for your business. The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice.
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