How to Get a Business License in Tennessee
Obtaining a business license in Tennessee is required to operate a new business; ignoring this requirement will result in penalties. Before seeking a business license, you must first choose the corporate structure of your business: sole proprietorship, partnership, C corporation, S corporation or limited liability company. If you don't know how you should structure your business, it is best to seek legal counsel.
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Instructions
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Register your business name with the Tennessee Department of State. This can be done online or in person. Use the "Business Name Availability" tool on the Tennessee Department of State's website to verify that another business does not already have your desired name.
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Apply for an Employer Identification Number with the Internal Revenue Service. To get an EIN immediately, use the EIN Assistant on the IRS website.
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Apply for a state tax identification number with the Tennessee Department of Revenue. This can be done using the department's Online Tax Registration portal or by visiting the department in person.
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Create articles of incorporation for your business if you decided to structure your company as a corporation. The articles of incorporation is a document outlining the purpose of your business, how it will operate and who the board of directors are.
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Visit the county clerk's office for the county where you wish to do business. Complete the Application For New Business License. Submit your license application to the clerk, along with the $22 filing fee and articles of incorporation, if applicable.
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Tips & Warnings
Visit the Tennessee One Stop Business Resource online to save time and effort. This online portal allows you to register your business name and apply for a state tax ID number all at once.
