The Beginner's Guide to Business Licenses
A comprehensive guide to understanding what licenses your new business might need and why.
Read articleLicenses & Permits
Business Licenses & Permits Made Simple
Don't let red tape slow you down. We'll identify and file for all the licenses and permits your business needs to operate legally.
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What are Business Licenses & Permits?
Business licenses and permits are legal documents issued by government agencies that grant you permission to operate a business in a specific location. They ensure your business complies with all federal, state, and local regulations.
The exact licenses and permits your business needs depend on various factors, including your industry, location, and business activities. Failing to have the correct licenses can lead to significant fines and even business closure.
Why do I need Licenses & Permits?
Having the right licenses is critical for protecting your business and ensuring legal operation.
- Legal Compliance: Avoid penalties, fines, and legal issues.
- Build Credibility: Shows your business is legitimate and trustworthy.
- Access to Services: Essential for opening a business bank account and obtaining insurance.
- Protect Your Business: Ensures your business operates within legal boundaries and avoids shutdown.
- Peace of Mind: Focus on growing your business, not on paperwork.
The Licenses & Permits Advantage
Our service streamlines a complex process so you can focus on your business.
We conduct a comprehensive search to identify all necessary federal, state, and local requirements for your business.
Our experts prepare and file all the required application forms on your behalf.
Save precious time and avoid the headache of complex paperwork and long wait times.
Our team handles all communication with government agencies, ensuring a smooth process.
Our Simple 3-Step Process
1
We Learn About Your Business
You'll answer a few simple questions about your business type and location.
2
We Identify Requirements
Our experts research and pinpoint all the licenses and permits you need.
3
We Handle the Filing
We complete and submit the necessary paperwork, ensuring everything is filed accurately.
Common License and Permit Types
- General Business License: Required by nearly all businesses.
- Sales Tax Permit: For businesses selling taxable goods or services.
- Professional Licenses: For regulated fields like law, medicine, or accounting.
- Zoning & Building Permits: To ensure your physical location complies with local codes.
- Employer Identification Number (EIN): For businesses with employees.
The Empire Ecommerce Advantage
We take the confusion out of the licensing process, so you can start operating your business with confidence.
Stay Fully Compliant
We ensure you meet all legal requirements at the federal, state, county, and local levels.
Hassle-Free Process
Our experts handle all the complex paperwork and applications, saving you time and frustration.
Save Time & Money
Avoid costly mistakes and wasted time by letting our experienced team manage the filing for you.
Why Entrepreneurs Trust Empire Ecommerce
We provide a professional, reliable, and affordable solution to all your business formation and compliance needs.
Here’s why entrepreneurs choose us for their business needs:
Easy and intuitive
Our user-friendly platform makes it simple to manage your documents and stay compliant with state requirements.
Friendly dashboard
Access all your official mail and notifications from a single, easy-to-use online dashboard.
Non-Resident Expertise
We specialize in helping international founders meet all US legal requirements, offering a seamless and stress-free solution.
24/7 lifetime support
We're available around the clock to answer your questions and provide expert assistance on your business compliance journey.
$0 service fee — no hidden charges
Transparent pricing: pay only state fees and any selected add-ons — no surprise charges or hidden costs.
Visit office any time
Prefer in-person help? Visit our office for consultations and document assistance whenever you need.
Trusted by entrepreneurs from 150+ countries
"I was confused about how to register my company in the US from abroad, but they handled everything. It was smooth and stress-free."
Adeel R. Pakistan
"Within a week, my Shopify store was up and running. Their team not only set it up but also guided me on how to manage orders and branding."
Fatima S. UAE
"Their consultation is not just one-time. I still message them when I get stuck, and they respond fast. It's like having a business partner."
Imran T. Canada
"I was confused about how to register my company in the US from abroad, but they handled everything. It was smooth and stress-free."
Adeel R. Pakistan
"Within a week, my Shopify store was up and running. Their team not only set it up but also guided me on how to manage orders and branding."
Fatima S. UAE
"Their consultation is not just one-time. I still message them when I get stuck, and they respond fast. It's like having a business partner."
Imran T. Canada
Read more about Licenses & Permits
In-depth guides and articles that walk you through the world of business compliance.
What Happens if You Don't Have the Right Permits?
Explore the risks and consequences of operating a business without the proper licenses.
Read article
Federal, State, and Local: Understanding License Levels
A breakdown of the different government levels from which your business may need a license.
Read articleGet Your Business Licenses & Permits Today
Frequently Asked Questions
What are business licenses and permits?
They are legal authorizations from a government agency (federal, state, or local) that permit you to conduct business. They ensure your company operates in compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.
Is it a legal requirement to have them?
Yes, most businesses are required to have certain licenses and permits. The specific requirements vary based on your business type, industry, and location. Failure to comply can result in fines and other legal consequences.
How do I know which ones I need?
Identifying the correct licenses can be complex. Our service simplifies this by analyzing your business type and location to provide a comprehensive list of all federal, state, and local licenses and permits required for you to legally operate.
How long does it take to get a license?
The processing time can vary greatly depending on the type of license and the government agency. Our service helps to expedite this by ensuring your applications are completed and submitted accurately and efficiently from the start, minimizing delays.
What is the difference between a license and a permit?
A license generally grants the right to engage in a particular business or activity, while a permit typically allows you to perform a specific action, such as a building permit for construction or a health permit for a food business. Many businesses need a combination of both.
Can I get licenses for any state?
Yes, our service helps you obtain licenses and permits in all 50 states, ensuring your business is fully compliant wherever you operate.