"How do I get started?"

In order to start a business in Georgia, you must have a business license. Business licenses are obtained through either the city or county in which you plan to conduct business.

To find out who regulates business licenses in your county, contact your local chamber of commerce office.

Some businesses are required to obtain a license from state offices before opening. The Secretary of State's Office advises as to which state licenses you might need.

"Where do I go to register a sole proprietorship?"

Sole proprietorships are not state-regulated, so there is no requirement to do business as a sole proprietor other than obtaining a business license from the county/city in which the business is being conducted. Sole proprietors are required to register with the state only if they choose to incorporate their business or establish a limited liability company or a limited partnership.

"What about taxes?"

If you plan to sell anything as a part of your new business, you will have to charge sales tax.

The state tax rate is a set rate for the whole state regardless of where you are located. Local governments also add to the sales tax. You will need to contact your local government's tax commissioner's office to acquire the rate of sales tax for your area.

You will also need to obtain a Federal Tax ID number from the Federal Internal Revenue Service. You might also need to check with the Georgia Department of Revenue in regard to taxes. Some products in Georgia have an additional tax added to them and you should be certain you are abiding by the laws in connection with these products.

"Where can I find information on government loans and grants?"

The U.S. Small Business Administration is a good source for information concerning qualification for loans and grants. The Administration can be contacted by calling (800) 8-ASK-SBA. The SBA can provide you with information concerning financial assistance, business counseling, training, minority enterprise development and government contracting.

The Georgia Department of Community Affairs Office of Business and Economic Affairs is another excellent source of information.

You can contact the Department of Community Affairs at (404) 679-1593. Ask for a copy of the Economic Development Finance Packet.

"Who can answer questions about labor laws in Georgia?"

Contact the Georgia Department of Labor, which can provide you with important information useful in the formation and operation of your business.

Georgia defers to the federal government for the circulation and enforcement of occupational safety and health regulations. The federal agency that administers this act is the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. OSHA can be contacted at (404) 562-2300.

Source: University of Georgia Small Business Development Center