How to Register a Business in South Carolina

It's easy to register your business online in South Carolina.

Registering your business in the state of South Carolina is fairly easy to do. The South Carolina Business One Stop (SCBOS) site and the South Carolina Department of Revenue site have both been tailored by the state to help business owners in the registration process. Granted, the process can take several hours to complete; but following a few simple steps can help you prepare for and complete the process with minimum effort and time.

Things You'll Need

• Business plan

Instructions

Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) if applicable.

1. Go to the IRS site and click the "Business" link at the top of the page.

2. Look in the "Business Topics" column on the left-side of the screen and click the link "Employer ID Numbers."

3. Click the link "Apply for an EIN Online." Read the information on this page regarding applying for your EIN. Once you have read and understood this information click the link "Apply Online Now." Keep in mind that the online application is only available during certain hours. Application available hours are listed just above the "Apply Online Now" link on this page.

4. Look near the bottom of this page, and click the "Begin Application" button. Complete the application and print the confirmation receipt at the end of the application process.

Register for State Taxes.

1. Go to the South Carolina Department of Revenue (SCDR) site and click the "Nexus Filing Requirements" link on the left-side of the page.

2. Read and understand the material presented about state business taxes on this page. Make note of the contact person specified for handling your business needs listed on this page. Contact the SCDR and get in touch with the person identified. The point of contact will tell you exactly what you need to do to complete the registration process for your business.

3. Mail the requested information to your point of contact. Be sure to gather all the necessary information before mailing in your packet. This will ensure that your paperwork will be processed as soon as possible. After seven days, call to check that your point of contact has received your package and that the materials are being processed.

Obtain a Business License and/or Permit.

1. Go to the South Carolina Business One Stop website and click the "Start Your Business" link at the top of the page.

2. Review the business links offered on this page. Many of these links give vital information about how to properly register your business, and how to obtain the proper licenses and permits.

3. Click the "Registering Your Business for the First Time!" link. Follow the steps on this page to complete the registration process.

Tips & Warnings

• Registering your business for federal and state taxes is free, but be aware that registration for business license and permits often requires a fee. These fees depend upon the type of business, among other factors.

• It is helpful to have a copy of your business plan on hand when completing the registration process.

References

• South Carolina Business One Stop (SCBOS)
• Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
• South Carolina Department of Revenue