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What legal steps should I take before starting a business in Georgia?

Picture of Chris Battis By   ·  1 minute read

To start a business in Georgia, there are several legal steps you should take:

  1. Choose a legal structure for your business: You can choose to operate as a sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), or corporation. Each structure has its own advantages and disadvantages, so you should carefully consider which is best for your business.
  2. Register your business with the Georgia Secretary of State: You will need to file Articles of Incorporation (for a corporation) or Articles of Organization (for an LLC) with the Georgia Secretary of State to legally register your business entity. You can file online or by mail.
  3. Obtain any necessary licenses and permits: Depending on the nature of your business, you may need to obtain business licenses, permits, or certifications from the state or local government. You can check the Georgia Department of Economic Development's website for a list of licenses and permits required for your business.
  4. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN): If your business has employees or is a corporation or partnership, you should obtain an EIN from the IRS for tax purposes. You can apply for an EIN online.
  5. Open a business bank account: To keep your personal and business finances separate, you should open a separate bank account for your business.
  6. Obtain business insurance: Depending on the nature of your business, you may need to obtain insurance to protect your business from liability.
  7. Create any necessary legal documents: Depending on your business, you may need to create legal documents such as contracts, agreements, or leases. You should consult with a licensed attorney to ensure that any legal documents comply with Georgia law.

It is important to note that this is a general overview of the legal steps you should take before starting a business in Georgia. Depending on the nature of your business and specific circumstances, there may be additional legal requirements or steps you need to take. It is always advisable to seek the counsel of a licensed attorney when starting a new business to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.