How to get Business license in New York
Procedure to get a license
- To ascertain your company’s requirements and submit an application for the appropriate license or permit, go to the NYS Business Wizard.
- Register your business: Before applying for a business license, you need to register your business with the New York State Department of State. You can file a Certificate of Assumed Name, Domestic Limited Liability Company Articles of Organization, or other required forms online or by mail.
- Obtain federal and state tax ID numbers: You may need to apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and a New York State Tax ID number from the Department of Taxation and Finance. These numbers are required for tax reporting and compliance purposes.
- Finding and applying for the correct licence or permit is simple with the help of the NY Licence Centre. Create a Gov ID to manage your licenses and permits online and to apply for new licenses.
- Apply for the business license: Once you have determined the required licenses and permits, you can apply for them online through the Business Express portal or by submitting a paper application to the appropriate agency. Make sure to provide all the required documents, fees, and information.
- Renew and maintain the license: Most business licenses in New York are valid for a certain period, such as one year, and require renewal before the expiration date. Additionally, you may need to comply with ongoing regulatory requirements, such as filing annual reports, obtaining inspections, and paying fees.
Eligibility:
- You must be at least 18 years old
- You must have a legal right to do business in the United States
- You must comply with federal, state, and local laws and regulations regarding your business activity
Documents:
- Proof of identity: You may need to provide a government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license or passport, to verify your identity.
- Business registration documents: You need to provide the registration documents that show your business entity and structure, such as a Certificate of Incorporation or a DBA certificate.
- Federal and state tax ID numbers: You need to provide your EIN and New York State Tax ID numbers as proof of tax registration.
- Professional licenses or certifications: Depending on your business activity, you may need to provide proof of professional licenses or certifications, such as a contractor’s license or a health permit.
- Other licenses or permits: You may need to provide proof of other licenses or permits required for your business, such as a liquor license or a parking permit.
Where to apply
You can apply for a business license in New York online or in person, depending on the type of license and the location of your business. Here are some options:
- Business Express: You can use the Business Express portal, which is a one-stop-shop for business services in New York, to apply for many types of licenses and permits, including general business licenses, professional licenses, and special permits. You can also use the portal to register your business, obtain tax ID numbers, and access other resources.
- State agencies: Some business licenses and permits may require you to apply directly to the relevant state agency. For example, you may need to apply for a liquor license from the New York State Liquor Authority or a gaming license from the New York State Gaming Commission.
- Local government: Depending on the location of your business, you may need to apply for a local business license or permit from the city or county government. You can check with your local government’s website or office for more information.
- Professional associations: If you are applying for a professional license, such as a license to practice law or medicine, you may need to apply through the relevant professional association or board.
Fees
- Since each firm will require a different kind of license, if it does at all, there is no set cost for a business license in New York. The cost of a sales tax certificate is not necessary. A professional company license might cost anywhere between $50 and $150.