Start a Business in New York State

Remember, starting a business requires working with both the State and your local government.

Form an Entity

Understand State licensing and permitting
Visit the NYS Business Wizard to determine the requirements for your business and apply for the right license or permit.

Sole proprietorships and general partnerships file in the county where they’re located.
Business Corporations file a Certificate of Incorporation with the Department of State.
Limited liability companies file Articles of Organization with the Department of State.
Limited partnerships file a Certificate of Limited Partnership with the Department of State.

Get your Federal Tax ID

Also known as the Employer Identification Number (EIN). Simply go to the IRS link and apply.

Apply to the NYS Department of Taxation and Finance for a sales tax Certificate of Authority.

Licensing and Permitting

The NY License Center makes finding and applying for the right license or permit easy. Set up a NY.Gov ID to apply for new licenses and to manage your existing licenses and permits online.

Insurance

Required Insurance

Unemployment Insurance can be obtained through the NYS Department of Labor. Workers’ Compensation can be obtained through the NYS Insurance Fund or a private carrier.

Other Insurance

Depending on your structure, location and employees, you may need Disability Insurance and health insurance. Disability insurance can be obtained through the NYS Insurance Fund or a private carrier. More information about health insurance can be obtained from the NYS Department of Health.

Get Support

Before you open your business, there is a wealth of information and resources for you to determine how to best move forward. This includes start-up assistance, business planning and training, capital financing options, and research/market data.

Start-Up Assistance

NYS Small Business Development Center: Get free counseling to help start your business, receive training on how to write a business and marketing plan, plus other tips on doing business with the state
NYS Empire State Development: Get technical and small business assistance

Accessing Capital and Incentives

NYS Empire State Development: Explore loan options, available grant, tax credits, and receive financing and technical assistance

Market Research

SizeUp - Small Business Administration Online Tool: Map your competition, benchmark performance and find the best places to advertise
NYS Department of Labor Data Center: Compare wages across the state and by industry
NYS Office of Real Property Tax Services: Research local tax rates across New York