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What legal steps do I need to take to start a business in Georgia?

Picture of Chris Battis By   ·  1 minute read

To start a business in Georgia, you need to take the following legal steps:

  1. Choose a business entity: You need to decide what type of legal entity you will establish for your business. The most common types of business entities in Georgia include sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), corporation, and nonprofit organization.
  2. Register your business: Once you have chosen a business entity, you will need to register your business with the Georgia Secretary of State's office. You can do this online or by mail. The registration process involves filing Articles of Incorporation, Articles of Organization, or other relevant forms, depending on your chosen business entity.
  3. Obtain necessary permits and licenses: Depending on the type of business you are starting, you may need to obtain certain permits and licenses from the state or local government. For example, if you are starting a restaurant, you may need a food service permit. You can visit the Georgia Department of Revenue website to see a list of licenses and permits required for different types of businesses.
  4. Obtain federal and state tax identification numbers: You will need to obtain a federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) if you plan to hire employees. You may also need to obtain a state tax identification number from the Georgia Department of Revenue, depending on your type of business.
  5. Open a business bank account: It's important to keep your personal and business finances separate. You should open a business bank account to deposit your business income and pay your business expenses.
  6. Obtain business insurance: Depending on the type of business you are starting, you may need to obtain certain types of insurance, such as liability insurance or workers' compensation insurance. This is an important step to protect your business from unexpected events.

It's important to note that the legal steps to start a business may vary depending on the type of business you are starting and the specific circumstances. It's always a good idea to consult with a licensed attorney to ensure that you are complying with all the applicable laws and regulations.