Operate Your Business Legally
Before you launch your new business, you'll need to apply for a business license with your city or county. The process of starting a business is often complicated, so the Georgia Secretary of State recommends that you consult an attorney or accountant as you create your business plan.
What You Should Know:
- In some cities and counties, you'll first need to secure a state tax identification number, a trade name registration and zoning approval for your business location. Additionally, your business may also need to apply for corporate registrations, professional licenses, or other special operating permits prior to application.
- To find out more about business licensing if you are located in the City of Sandersville, please contact Gloria Evans, the assistant City Clerk on 478 552 2525 x203.
- For an occupational tax renewal form on our website, please use the City Online Tab, select Document Center on the drop down menu and the occupational tax renewal folder. Please select whether you require a business license or contractors application. You can find the link here.
- Learn more about starting a business and registering its trade name, fictitious name, or Doing Business As (DBA) title with the First Stop Business Information Center on the Georgia Secretary of State website.
Business owners should be aware of multiple state and federal requirements that are necessary to operate. This can include withholding tax, workers compensation, sales and use tax, labor law compliance, and occupancy permits to name a few.
Finding out this information can be difficult since there are agencies at the federal, state, and locallevels that may need to be consulted. The information in this packet is not all-inclusive and should not be considered a substitute for legal assistance from a qualified attorney. Also, since these requirements are subject to change, business owners should contact individual departments for the most current information.
To this end, the Secretary of State’s office offers the First Stop Business Information Center to assist business owners. The center is designed to offer one-stop shopping on the licensing and permitting of businesses in Georgia.
