State Resources for Starting a Business: Where to Look First

The secretary of state or business filing office

Your state's secretary of state, or an equivalent agency, usually registers LLCs and corporations, reserves business names and holds annual report requirements.

This is where most owners begin. Typical services:

• Check whether your business name is available
• File articles of organization or incorporation
• Register a trade name or DBA, sometimes done at the county instead
• File annual or biennial reports and pay related fees
• Find a registered agent requirement

Filing fees and rules vary by state. Search for your state's business portal, which often has step-by-step checklists. Learn about structures in understanding business structures and what an LLC is.

State tax and workforce agencies

Your state department of revenue handles sales tax and income tax registration, and a separate workforce agency handles unemployment insurance if you hire employees.

After forming an entity, you may need to register with several agencies:

• Department of revenue or taxation. Sales tax permit, withholding account and state income or franchise tax rules.
• Workforce or labor department. State unemployment insurance account and new hire reporting.
• Workers compensation board or insurer. Required coverage for employees in most states.

Many states have a single online business portal that links these registrations. Ask each agency about deadlines, because penalties for late registration can add up. For federal registration, you still need an EIN from the IRS. See business compliance for the broader checklist.

Professional and trade licensing boards

Many occupations are licensed at the state level, including contractors, cosmetologists, health professionals, real estate agents and more. Check before you advertise.

State licensing boards set exams, experience requirements and fees. Examples include general and specialty contractors, electricians, plumbers, barbers, nurses, accountants and attorneys. Some trades are licensed by cities or counties instead.

Verify these early:

• Does your occupation require a state license?
• What exam, training or insurance is required?
• Do you need a business license separate from a personal license?
• Are there reciprocity agreements if you hold a license from another state?

Operating without a required license can bring fines and make contracts unenforceable. See licensing a home business and doing business in multiple states.

Small business development centers and free counseling

Small Business Development Centers, SCORE chapters and women's business centers give free or low-cost advice, often hosted by state universities and partly funded by the SBA.

These programs help with plans, financial projections, marketing and funding. Most states have SBDC offices at colleges or economic agencies. SCORE connects you with volunteer mentors, and the SBA supports centers for women, veterans and other groups. Programs and funding change, so confirm current services on SBA.gov or by calling the local office.

Bring a short summary of your idea, numbers you have so far and specific questions. See our best free resources for small business and small business associations for related support.

State economic development offices and incentives

Your state economic development agency may offer grants, tax credits, training funds or loan programs for certain industries and hiring goals. Eligibility is narrow, so check the details.

Some states run loan guarantee programs, microloan funds, job-creation tax credits, export assistance and small business grants. Many are aimed at specific industries, rural areas, distressed communities or businesses that add jobs.

Tips for approaching these programs:

• Read eligibility rules before investing time in an application.
• Ask what documents are needed and when funds are paid, since reimbursement programs require you to spend first.
• Confirm whether awards are taxable income.
• Be cautious about services that charge a fee to find grants. Public program lists are free.

For federal options, read government business loans and the SBA grant guide.

Local layer: city, county and chambers

Cities and counties handle zoning, local business licenses, health permits and signage. Chambers of commerce offer networking and referrals.

State registration is only part of the process. Check with your city or county clerk about local business licenses, zoning approval for your location, certificate of occupancy, health or fire inspections, sign permits and home occupation rules.

A local chamber of commerce or business association can introduce you to other owners, banks and customers. Local banks and credit unions may know of area-specific loan programs. Ask each office for a checklist and keep a folder of confirmations.

When you are ready for financing

State resources help you start and stay compliant. Once your business has revenue, private financing can fund growth. ROI Funder serves all 50 states.

After you have registered, licensed and begun selling, your next question is often money. ROI Funder considers businesses in all 50 states with 6+ months in business, $20,000+ monthly revenue and 500+ FICO. Brand-new startups generally rely on savings, state programs, SBA options or other sources first.

For established businesses, working capital, SBA loans and a business line of credit are common choices. We show true cost, payback period and monthly-equivalent payments before you sign. You can also browse funding by state.