Do I Need a Business License to Sell Online?

There are many things you have to take care of before you can open an online business. One crucial step that people tend to overlook is getting a business license.

While the process of preparing a business license can be confusing at times, you shouldn’t let it deter you from reaching your goal of making money online.

Keep reading to find out how to get a business license and the types of permits you’ll need.

What Is a Business License, and Do You Need One?

All types of businesses must have the proper licenses so they can operate legally. There’s not much of a distinction between a regular brick-and-mortar store and an online website store in the government’s eyes.

A business license is a certificate issued by the government that allows people to own a business, and usually, it has to be paid for. This way, the government can supervise the enterprises operating within the specified jurisdiction.

Having a license protects your business from fines. Without a license, your state or city may halt your business until you achieve all the requirements to own one.

That is why applying for a business license is one of the first things you should do when starting a business. However, you may not need a business license in several specific areas until you hit a certain revenue threshold. In other words, be sure to keep yourself informed on the local laws.

Licensing is fundamental to your eCommerce growth. Having a legitimate business will help you acquire loans and partnerships more easily. On top of that, it enables you to claim some expenses as tax deductions.

Business License vs. Seller’s Permit

You may also have heard about seller’s permits, also known as the sales tax permit or the sales and use tax permit.

Generally, if your goods and services qualify for sales tax, you must get a seller’s permit. With it, you can collect and remit taxes from your end customers.

While you have to pay to license a business, it’s free to obtain a seller’s permit. If you are looking to sell at a particular location for a shorter period, some states also provide temporary seller’s permits that last for 90 days.

A seller’s permit also allows you to buy products from suppliers or manufacturers without paying any taxes. If you have a resale certificate, you can start selling things online at the wholesale or retail level.

If you’re distributing to different states, you should be aware of the sales tax nexus. This is determined by the total revenue you generate in each state with which you have a business or a connection.

What Business Licenses and Permits Do You Need?

Depending on your online business’s location, size, and nature, you may need some or all of the following licenses:

• Federal business licenses. This license is compulsory if you sell anything under the supervision of government agencies like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Tobacco and alcoholic beverages, for example, are products that fall under this category.
• State business licenses. Usually, the state requires licenses for specific industries, such as a contractor’s license or an accountant’s license.
• Local business licenses. These include zoning permits, occupancy permits, and other licenses regulated by the city or country.

It’s important to note that the rules around business licensing vary from one state to another. For more information, visit the Small Business Administration (SBA) website.

The same applies if you’re selling internationally, as you’ll need to ensure your business practices are in accordance with the local laws of your target country.

Business license requirements are not only limited to those selling at physical locations. Even if you manage a home-based online business, there are some rules you must comply with.

Numerous states, for instance, require a Home Occupation permit. It’s also possible that you need a manufacturing permit if you’re sourcing products yourself.

Can You Sell Products Without a License?

If you’re selling a limited amount of products by yourself, such as handicrafts or artwork, you don’t need to acquire any licenses or permits.

However, if you target trending products and engage in regular business activity without registering yourself for the appropriate licenses, your online business is violating the law and is operating illegally.

As a result, you’ll receive a fine, the severity of which depends on your state laws and business model.

Even if you try to apply for a license after such an incident, there is a chance that the government won’t grant your request, prompting you to stop your operations.

Moreover, your business will lose its reputation. Unhappy customers may even prompt lawsuits because you can no longer fulfill your orders.

What About Online Services?

Whether you’re selling products or providing services online, having a tax license is necessary. Be sure to check the rules concerning taxation in your state.

If they do impose taxes on services, the cost will approximately be the same as for other taxable products.

Generally, you’ll also need a seller’s permit. Watch out for any other special licenses that you may need.

For instance, if your company is working in the food industry, you may also need a food service permit, a health permit, and a manufacturer’s permit if you’re producing foods on your own and wish to sell food items online.

Other Business License Types You Might Need to Sell Online

Here are a few more business license types you should be familiar with.

Business Operation License

To register your online business, you’ll need to turn in an application and pay a small fee to a licensing division.

If you live in the US, remember that each state enacts different regulations. You’ll need to check with your local City Hall or Secretary of State Website to determine the requirements.

Typically, you have to renew your business licenses annually or bi-annually. Remember to check the licensing authority website periodically to ensure whether your business still meets the qualifications, or else you might end up having to pay some fines.

Employer Permit and Licenses

If you have no employees and are a sole proprietor, you can use your Social Security number for tax identification purposes.

However, if you hire employees, your business requires a federal Employer Identification Number (EIN). This tax ID number identifies your business as a tax entity, ensuring that your company collects payroll tax and stays compliant.

You can file for an EIN on the International Revenue Service website.

Furthermore, your company may need to apply for unemployment insurance and workers’ compensation. These permits are crucial to protect your workers.

Doing Business As (DBA) License

If you plan to operate your business using a different name from your own, you’ll need a DBA license. This license makes it clear to the government and the customers who are behind the business.

In Los Angeles, California, for example, having a DBA is mandatory for starting a business.

A DBA is also necessary for opening a business bank account and establishing contracts.

Should you want to file a DBA, head to the nearest county courthouse. The cost of the form ranges between $25 to $100.

Occupational License

An occupational license regulates various professions that require training and utmost competency, as both infrastructure and people’s wellbeing rely on them.

This type of license affects various fields – from real estate, plumbing, doctoring, financial planning, construction, transportation to food preparation.

To identify whether you need a business license of this kind, refer to the National Occupational Licensing Database.

Weight and Measures Registration

Businesses that involve weighing objects in their selling activities may require weights and measures permits.

Since the rules regarding this type of business permit are specific within each state and city, make sure to consult the relevant authority.

How to Apply for a Business License

To apply for a business license, you will need to talk to your city planning representatives and ask for a zoning permit.

The relevant branches of your state and city will then perform a zoning review of your business location. More complex licenses, such as the situations of combined online and brick-and-mortar businesses, may require in-depth inspections.

Hence, you’ll need to ensure that you can operate your business without violating the local zoning restrictions.

There are several requirements to meet before opening your business. These include a legal structure – sole proprietorship or limited liability corporation, a detailed record of business activities, a sales tax permit, and other necessary licenses.

You can either fill the form online or pick it up manually. Once finished, you will need to send them to the relevant department.

Generally, your license should be ready in a couple of days or weeks.

Conclusion

Licensing for a business is critical to your eCommerce success as it prevents you from unwanted legal problems.

Other business permits that you’ll need for your eCommerce business are a seller license, reseller permit, tax license, and so on. For home-based businesses, getting a home occupation permit is a must.

Now that you know all about the necessary licenses and permits to start a business, nothing stops you from your quest to determine how to sell online and from establishing your online business. Good luck in developing your eCommerce store.