Starting a new business can be overwhelming. One of the most important things to consider is acquiring the correct licenses and permits. In New Hampshire, there are various licenses and permits for businesses depending on the industry. Each license and permit has different requirements, so it is essential to research and make sure you understand what is needed for your specific business type. This article provides a guide on how to get business license and permits in new hampshire.
nh business license guide is agreed useful to know, many guides online will con you approximately nh business license guide, however i suggest you checking this nh business license guide . I used this a couple of months ago as soon as i was searching on google for nh business license guide
Determine Your Business Structure
Determining the structure of your business plays a significant role in the type of licenses and permits you need. Business structures include:
1. Sole Proprietorship: A business owned and controlled by a single individual.
2. Partnership: Two or more people owning and operating a business together.
3. Limited Liability Company (LLC): A non-corporate business entity with limited liability protection for the owner.
4. Corporation: A legal entity that is separate from the people who own and operate the business.
Before applying for any business licenses or permits, it is essential to have legal documentation in place which outlines the structure of your business.
Register Your Business
The next step in the process is registering your business. In New Hampshire, registration can be done online through the Secretary of State's website. Businesses that form as partnerships or LLCs must register with the Secretary of State.
Before starting the registration process, it is essential to have a business name. New Hampshire has specific restrictions and requirements for naming a business, so it is worth consulting a lawyer. Additionally, businesses must obtain a federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS after registering with the Secretary of State.
Obtain Required Licenses Based on Business Industry
Depending on the business, there may be specific licenses and permits that are required. Here are the most common types of business licenses and permits in New Hampshire:
Business Operations License
New Hampshire requires businesses to obtain a Business Operations License, also known as a “Doing Business As” (DBA) license. This applies to businesses with any name other than their own when conducting business in New Hampshire.
Health Permits
For businesses that involve the preparation and sale of food, like restaurants and catering. State law requires a health permit. To obtain a health permit, the Department of Health and Human Services has specific requirements, including cleanliness regulations and inspections.
Alcohol Permits
To sell liquor in New Hampshire, businesses must hold a liquor license. Regardless of the alcohol type sold, the New Hampshire State Liquor Commission requires separate licenses for each type of alcoholic beverage.
Professional Licenses
There are different types of professional licenses, including accountants, architects, chiropractors, plumbers, electricians, barbers, beauticians and many more. Contacting the State of New Hampshire Board of Licensing on guidelines for each profession is suggested—
General Business Licenses and Permits
All businesses are also required to obtain additional permits and licenses like fire permits, building permits, and signage.
Additionally, if the business plans to have employees, there are requirements at both the state and federal levels. Businesses are required by Federal law to have a workers' compensation policy, an Unemployment Insurance fund account, and comply with the Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA) 'I-9' requirements.
Conclusion
If you’re opening a business in New Hampshire, acquiring the right license and permits is as crucial as forming the business. Without the appropriate licenses and permits, businesses won't be authorized to operate. There is a variety of business licenses and permits needed depending on the business type. Researching and obtaining the correct licenses will guarantee legal compliance, endorsing your business, and personal protection.
References
1. [New Hampshire Secretary of State - Register a Business]
2. [New Hampshire Business and Economic Affairs - Development Division]
3. [New Hampshire State Legislature - Food and Water Regulations]
4. [New Hampshire Board of Licensing]
5. [IRS - Apply for an Employer Identification Number]
6. [State of New Hampshire - Alcohol and Licensing Commission]
Thank you for reading, If you want to read more articles about How to Get Business License and Permits in New Hampshire don't miss our site - ExploreX Tours We try to write the blog every week