How to Register and License My Business in Oregon

Registering your business in Oregon requires you to choose a unique name and to declare a business structure (corporation, partnership, limited liability company, etc.). Registration fees range from $50 to $100, or $275 for out-of-state businesses. Licenses are also required for certain types of enterprises.

Things You'll Need

• Computer with Internet connection
• Fee (ranges from $50 to $100; $275 for out-of-state businesses)

Instructions

1. Choose a structure for your business. There are several different options available, such as corporation, limited liability company, or sole proprietorship. Choosing the right structure will depend largely on the type of business and your individual circumstances.

2. Choose a name for your business. Search the Oregon Secretary of State's Business Registry Name Search to verify that your chosen name is available (i.e., not already in use). According to Oregon law, there cannot be two businesses registered under the same name in the state.

3. Visit the website of the Corporation Division at the Oregon secretary of state's office and navigate to the Central Business Registry. Fill out the registration form and pay the fee. The form and fees will vary based on the type of business you are forming. As of December 2010, fees for registering a business in the state of Oregon range between $50 and $100. Fees for out-of-state businesses registered there are $275.

4. Search the state of Oregon's online license directory to ascertain if a license is required for your particular type of business. If required, the site will indicate the appropriate agency to contact. For example, construction and landscape contractors need to register with the Construction Contractors Board or Landscape Contractors Board.

5. Apply for a license with the appropriate authorities, if applicable. Forms and fees will vary based upon the type of license you are applying for.

References

• Oregon Secretary of State: Corporation Division: Starting a Business

Resources

• U.S. Small Business Administration: Small Business Planner -- Choose a Structure
• Oregon Secretary of State: Business Registry Business Name Search
• Oregon Secretary of State: Business Registration Forms
• Oregon Secretary of State: Business Registry Fee Schedule
• State of Oregon: Licenses, Permits and Registrations