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Register your business
All businesses that operate in San Francisco must register with the City, even small businesses. Depending on your business structure, you may also need to register or incorporate with the State. If you have employees, you'll need to register with the Federal government.
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Office of Small BusinessResources
Business structures
When starting a business, you will need to select a business structure for your business.
This decision impacts how much you pay in taxes and your personal liability (i.e. who is legally responsible for debts). You will need to decide before registering your business.
Learn about business registration
You must register your business if it operates in San Francisco. You may also need to register with state and federal agencies.
California state business registration
If you chose a Limited Liability Company (LLC), Corporation (Corp), Limited Partnership (LP), or Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) as your business structure, you must register or incorporate with the California Secretary of State.
Federal business registration
Most businesses must register with the US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN).
If you plan to sell retail products, you need to register with the CA Department of Tax and Fee Administration.
Next step
Continue in the Step by step guide to starting a business in San Francisco
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