Business License For Online Store In California

While most cities do not have a california business license verification search or california business license lookup service online they do allow you to apply for a new business license over the internet.

Business license for online store in california. The regulations surrounding these licenses and how to register for them vary by location so contact your local city hall or check your state s secretary of state website to find and apply for the correct license. Operating an online business does not exclude you from certain legal formalities. Do you need a business license to sell online.

The good thing is getting a license is actually pretty easy. How to register your dba in california check if your business name is trademarked if you re not sure whether you need to register a dba check with your local government office or google state name state county fictitious business name for example california los angeles county fictitious business name. The licenses required you need depends on your location the type of products you sell and your business needs.

Depending on your location and the nature of your work you may need a mix of licenses and permits at the federal state county and municipal levels to open and run an online business. Businesses are required to apply for a business license because it provides a way for the government to keep track of enterprises operating in the area and keep track of tax revenue. When you operate a business without the proper licenses you risk heavy fines.

Business name registration or dba certificate. A business operation license allows your ecommerce business to conduct business in your city county or state. This type of business license will allow your store to buy goods tax exempt from a manufacturer or distributor.

All companies require a business license whether they sell online or from a brick and mortar storefront. Most vendors will request a copy of your resale certificate before doing business with your company. Then you collect the sales tax from the customer and pay it back to the state.

How to get a california business license. Visit the city hall or city offices where you will be doing business or check the city s online pages. You may be able to download and print the business license application forms to mail in or hand deliver.