How to Start a New Business in Washington State
Starting a business in the state of Washington involves setting up bank accounts and filing appropriate paperwork with the state. If this is your first business, be sure you allow several days to collect all the proper forms and set up the proper accounts, which you'll need to start receiving payments.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Log on to the Washington State government website at access.wa.gov for information on which forms and procedures are needed.
-
2
Decide on how to structure your business. You may set up the company in Washington as a limited liability company (LLC), a sole proprietorship, or a corporation. As a Limited Liability Company your personal assets are protected from law suits and claims against the business. Select "determine your business structure" on the Washington State government website and review all of the structural options before you decide.
-
-
3
Choose a company name that best describes your business. It should relate to your type of business and be creative enough to attract attention. Another strategy is to choose a name that starts with "A" or "1" so it appears first in the phone book. Complete and submit the forms you downloaded from the state website.
-
4
Download the business licensing guide and determine whether or not your business needs a license in order to operate. For instance, restaurants do need a license to operate. Other businesses that handle hazardous materials also need environmental permits and licensing.
-
5
Download and complete the Master Business Application from the Washington State government website and submit this to finalize your business application. This application asks for personal information and details about the business. It must be completed in order to start your company.
-
1
References
Resources
- Photo Credit business colleagues preparing for business meeting image by Vladimir Melnik from Fotolia.com
