Starting a business in CA

I am a reptile breeder in So Cal. I have gotten to the point of making a website, but how do you set up a legit business, ie. trademark my business name, licenses, tax stuff, etc. It would just be a small home business. I would appreciate any advice or help anyone can give me. Thanks

Usually you'll start off at the tax assessors office registering your business name and type. They should guide you from there with the other needed forms. You'll have to look into which type of business is best suited for you and your goals, as the taxes and laws may differ from one type to another.

Example, some larger businesses become incorporated. This supposedly protects their personal gain from mediation should they end up in court for some reason, and only the company money is at risk. (some view this as something to hide) A sole proprietorship does not offer this same protection. this is just one example.

Things like this are what you want to look into, to decide whats best for you and your goals. I'm sure others can offer you more info than i can though.


Rick

In California, each city and/or county has regulations for obtaining a business license, so start with your city and find out what is necessary to file an application. Once that is obtained, you will need to publish a Fictitious Name Statement in a local newspaper. The next step is to obtain a California Seller's Permit through the State Board of Equalization. By law, you must charge sales tax for all California sales, and those taxes are paid to them each fiscal year and are due at the end of June. As far as your Federal and State Income Tax, all income from sales is filed just like any other income.

Good luck!