Tips to get your Business License in Georgia with an ease

You can check the Georgia business license search tool. This is a simple search tool for you: just input the details of the license you are looking for, and you will get crucial information about the license requirements.

There is no single license or permission that all business owners must have, but depending on the type of business you operate, you will need to get a license from the state. In order to function in Georgia, corporations, limited partnerships, limited liability companies, and non-profit organizations must register with the Corporations Division of the Office of the Secretary of State. Sole proprietorships are generally exempt from registering with the Secretary of State, while municipal licensing requirements may still apply.

You can check the Georgia business license search tool. This is a simple search tool for you: just input the details of the license you are looking for, and you will get crucial information about the license requirements.

Local licensing requirements for businesses

Local businesses must register and obtain appropriate licenses in almost every county or city, in addition to state requirements. If a business is located within the corporate limits of a city, it will nearly always be needed to obtain a city license. However, if a business is located outside of a municipality's boundaries, the county is the proper licensing body. These local business permits are known as Business Tax Certificates. Always check with the business office of your local government to learn what licenses and permits your company requires.

How to apply for a business license?

In Georgia, business license applications are typically straightforward and can be submitted to the appropriate county or city office where the business is located. Businesses in Atlanta, for example, should apply to the city's Business Tax Division, but businesses in Savannah should apply to the Revenue Department. General licenses are usually valid for one calendar year and must be renewed annually.

What information should I submit with my applications?

While the information required is different for each application, you will often be required to give the following:

The company's name;

Address and location of the company;

Numbers of Tax Identification (State and Federal);

The owners' names and addresses;

The number of employees in total;

The date of incorporation, the type of business, and the nature of the business are all important factors to consider.

You can also be asked to forecast your total revenue for the year. Certain occupations must meet additional standards before receiving a license.

Types of occupational licenses

In order to practice in Georgia, over forty professions must be licensed by the Professional Licensing Boards. Visit http://sos.georgia.gov/plb/ for additional information on which occupations require a specific license and learn more about licensing requirements. You can also call the Professional Licensing Boards' Administrative Offices at (478) 207-1300.

Certificate of occupational taxation

Although the state of Georgia does not require a general business license, many cities do require enterprises to apply for an occupational tax certificate in order to operate. The rules for registering a business differ based on where it is located and what it does. The cost of an occupational tax certificate is also determined by the company's gross receipts and the number of employees.

A few cities with license requirements are listed below.

Atlanta – Businesses operating within the city limits of Atlanta must obtain a city business license.

Atlanta also regulates businesses that sell alcoholic beverages, game rooms, bakeries, and other types of businesses. Regulatory Permits can be issued by Atlanta's Department of Finance.

According to the Columbus Finance Department, all businesses operating within city limits must get a business license. The Finance Department also requires licenses from businesses that offer alcoholic beverages, precious metals dealers, pawnbrokers, etc.

Savannah – A Business Tax Certificate, often known as a business license, is required for all businesses operating within the city borders of Savannah.

Sandy Springs – Within 30 days of opening a business in Sandy Springs, an Occupational Tax Certificate is necessary.

Macon — An Occupational Tax Certificate is required for all firms operating in Macon-Bibb County. Additional business license applications are available for enterprises that sell alcohol. Pool halls, massage therapists, and other types of businesses are also required to obtain occupational tax certificates.