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Acquiring a business license in Nebraska typically involves several steps, with the exact procedure depending on your type of operation and where it is located in Nebraska. Here is a general breakdown of the steps required.
Step 1. Establishing Your Business Structure
A majority of Nebraska business licenses require that your business be structured as a formal business entity. Nebraska offers structures such as partnerships, corporations and LLCs. You can file any of them online with the Nebraska Secretary of State. Your choice could impact which licenses and permits are needed to run the enterprise.
Register Your Business Name
Part of the registration process is naming your entity. Before registering, check the availability first on Nebraska’s online database. Registering a trade name may be necessary if your business uses a name other than its legal name. You can apply for a trade name with the Nebraska Secretary of State.
Acquire an EIN
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is necessary for tax purposes and transactions related to your business. It is like a Social Security number for your business. You can get one online with the IRS.
Step 2. Apply for Permits and Licenses
Acquiring a business license or permit involves submitting an application. These are standard forms provided by government agencies. They usually ask for general information about your business. This information can include its name, address and contact info. It also provides details about the nature of your business and information about owners and operators.
Nebraska does not issue a general business license. Businesses often need specific licenses or permits. Contact the Secretary of State Business Licensing to learn about these licensing opportunities. Its one-stop licensing and inspection portal has links to Nebraska’s 270 permits and licenses. Below are some examples of licenses and permits needed in Nebraska.
Be sure to also check with your county and city or town to determine if a license or permit is required. For example, Omaha requires licensing for businesses such as electricians and Douglas County requires licenses to sell liquor, tobacco or to operate a locksmith business.
Nebraska Sales Tax Permit
Some businesses must obtain a Nebraska Sales Tax Permit and a Nebraska Identification Number from the Nebraska Department of Revenue to collect and remit sales tax payments. A business needs a sales tax permit if it engages in retail sales, leases or rentals of tangible personal property and services subject to sales tax. It is also required if a business has employees. A business with no employees that simply provides a service may not need to register.
A sales tax permit serves two principal functions for Nebraska:
- Tracking and regulating collection, remittance and payment by businesses of sales tax
- Communicating tax updates to businesses such as changes in tax rates or regulations
Businesses apply through the Nebraska Department of Revenue. Once granted, businesses must systematically calculate, collect and remit sales tax payments in a timely fashion to keep it valid.
Step 3. Renewals and Updates
Remember that many licenses and permits must be renewed periodically, and you may need to update information if your business changes or expands. While the renewal processes may differ, here are some common steps.
- Notifications: Most licensing authorities issue renewal notices to businesses before the license’s expiration. These notices outline information such as required documents, fees and renewal deadlines.
- Review Requirements: Carefully consider any requirements listed. These include updating business information, providing financial statements, proof of insurance or completing training programs.
- Fee Payments: Pay the renewal fee. The fee amount can vary based on industry, size and jurisdiction. Some licenses require a flat fee, while others depend on revenue or other metrics of your business.
Once your renewal application has been reviewed and approved, the licensing authority will issue your renewed license. Ensure your records reflect your new license information. You can do this by updating your physical premises, website content and marketing collateral with the renewed license information.
Keep an eye out for renewal dates for your license cycle since not all jurisdictions send renewal reminders on time. Your responsibility lies in keeping track of them so you can start this process on time. Make sure to follow your licensing authority’s specific instructions to ensure a quick and smooth renewal experience.
Business owners should conduct extensive research into Nebraska state, county and town or city business licensing and permit requirements. Ensure you take all the appropriate steps and obtain the necessary federal, state and local licenses. Failing to do so could incur fines, penalties and significant delays to your operations.
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