NEW BUSINESS CHECK LIST
Registering Your Business:
The state of Washington provides a one-stop business registration to assist in understanding and meeting federal, state and local licensing requirements. The one-stop registration process includes obtaining a Master Business Application, UBI number and registering a Trade Name. Designated offices are listed on page 15 as local resources to conveniently obtain a Master Business License. For further inquiries regarding licensing contact 360-753-4401.
Obtaining a City or County License:
When operating within a city limits a business may be required to obtain a city or county license. Contact the local Department of Licensing or city clerk's office.
Obtaining a Specialty License:
Many times a business owner may need additional licensing for landscaping, painting, shipbuilding or other purposes. For inquires regarding specialty licenses contact Business and Professions Division at 360-753-4401.
State and Federal Tax Requirements:
These vary with the form and nature of a business. For state tax assistance contact Department of Revenue at 1-800-667-7706. The IRS can assist with federal information, publications and forms. For general information, call 1-800-829-1040; for forms and a Business Tax Kit, call 1-800-829-3676.
Wage Regulations:
Questions concerning wage regulations may be directed to the Department of Labor and Industries, Employment Standards, P.O. Box 44510, MS-4510, Olympia, Washington 98504-4510,
360-956-5316.
Industrial Health and Safety Regulations:
For information on health and safety rules, contact:
Division of Industrial Safety and Health, P.O. Box 44600, MS-4600, Olympia, Washington 98504-4600, 1-800-423-7233 in Washington, 360-956-5500 in Olympia.
Industrial Insurance:
Questions concerning hiring employees and insurance and tax withholdings for employees, contact:
Division of Industrial Insurance, Employer Services, P.O. Box 44144, MS-4144, Olympia, Washington 98504-4144, 1-800-547-8367 in Washington, 360-956-4817 in Olympia.
Environmental Regulations:
Permits for air, water, or waste disposal may be required from the Department of Ecology. For further information contact Washington State Department of Ecology, P.O. Box 47600, Olympia, Washington
98504-7600.
Employment Security
Local Fire Officials
Local Health Department:
Sewer, storm sewer, water and solid waste utilities.
CTED Business Assistance Center:
For general business information, start-up information or business assistance, contact the: Business Assistance Center hotline at 1-800-237-1233.
Small Business Development Centers:
The Washington Small Business Development Centers provide one-to-one counseling for small businesses to help develop a business plan, map out a business strategy, develop a bookkeeping system or assist in business start-up at no charge. Also at no charge, research and Market analysis. Through the statewide network of community colleges, SBDC sponsored education and training is provides at nominal fees. Contact 360-586-4854 in Olympia.
Accounting Concerns:
For information regarding bookkeeping systems, income tax planning, income tax returns, by the Washington Society of Certified Public Accountants.
Insurance Concerns:
You should consult your insurance agent about various forms of insurance; fire, automobile, employee health and life, fidelity (insuring your business against employee theft) burglary and vandalism, business interruption, and key person insurance.
Legal:
You should consult an attorney regarding your form of business ownership, leases, and contracts. Attorney referral services are available from Washington State Bar Association by contacting:
Seattle 206-623-2551
Tacoma 206-383-3432
Lewis County 360-748-9121
Spokane 509-456-3655
Use of this checklist is not a substitute for judgment, and final responsibility for the proper licensing and compliance rests with the business owner.
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IMPORTANT DOWNLOADS
Auto Expense Deduction
Employee vs. Contractor
Health Savings Accounts
Tax Tips Payroll Tax
CLIENT TESTIMONIALS
"Brian does an excellent job of personalizing his service. Whether I choose to work with him via email, phone, fax, mail or in person, Brian provides timely support based on my needs and schedule. I am sure he makes each of his customers feel like they are his most important client."
M.N. – Kirkland, WA
COMMON QUESTIONS
How do I apply for an EIN?
To get an Employer Identification Number (EIN) form the IRS online you should go to www.irs.gov/businesses then click on "Employer ID Numbers" under the Topics section. An EIN is issued after the successful submission of the completed Form SS-4 online. As your CPA I may request your EIN via the internet on your behalf. A copy of Form SS-4, signed by you as the taxpayer, must be maintained in the business files I hold on your behalf.
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