Register Your Business
Registering your business is a key part of getting it up and running. All companies doing business in the City of Atlanta need to register with the city and depending on how your business is set up, you may also need to register with the county, state, or federal government. You can find the information you need to navigate the steps below.
Find a Location and Permits
Visit the Atlanta Permitting Portal to determine if a location is zoned for your type of business, see which permits you need, and what they cost. Get started!
Employer Identification Number (EIN)
Most businesses must register with the US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN). Think of it as a social security number for your business. If you plan to hire employees, you will need to complete this step in order to pay payroll taxes. Most business owners find an EIN helpful for other business purposes, such as opening a bank account. You can apply for an EIN online for free.
Incorporate your Business Entity
If you choose to structure your business as a Partnership, Corporation, or Limited Liability Company, you will need to incorporate your business entity with the Georgia Secretary of State. Visit their website to make sure your business name is available and get tips on filing
Register a Business Name (“Doing Business As”)
If you’ve chosen a business name that is different from your first and last name (for instance, if your business is called “Jane’s Grocery” instead of “Jane Doe Inc.”), you will first need to make sure that no one else is using that name. Check to see if the name is still available, and then be sure to register the name to yourself so someone else doesn’t take it. This helps to avoid confusion from having a lot of businesses with the same name and will protect your business by ensuring that no one starts doing business using your business name.
Reserve your business name here.
Register for State and Local Taxes
All companies doing business within the City of Atlanta must register their business with the City and the State – Georgia Tax Center.