|
|||||||||||||||||||||||
 |
|
|
|
|
|
The following is only a general overview of the steps you need to
take in starting a business. Detailed information on each these steps is
provided in the following pages of this Guide.
Develop a Business Plan. Read through the next section of this guide on preparing a business plan. Once your plan is drafted, have it reviewed for free at one of the organizations listed on the previous page. Compile a checklist of steps to take. Call CEDO (802·865·7187) to review. While you are there, ask for a copy of their Commercial Space Database. Look into local permits, zoning and licenses. Before signing a lease, contact Planning and Zoning (802·865·7188) and Public Works (802·863·9094) to discuss your plans. P & Z and PW will advise you of necessary zoning and building permits and the process for each. www.dpw.ci.burlington.vt.us/build/ & www.ci.burlington.vt.us/planningChoose your legal structure. Sole proprietorship? Partnership? S-Corp? C-Corp? Limited Liability Corporation? The new L3C (Vermont was the first state to authorize this new designation)? Consult with an attorney and accountant to review the legal and financial benefits of each. You can research the definitions and attributes of these legal structures at the Secretary of State's website. Register your name. Once you've decided on your business' legal structure, or if you are doing business under a name other than your own, you need to register your name. Either call 802·828·2386 or visit the Vermont Secretary of State's Office to get the Tradename Registration form. Also, certain professions require permits and licensing (see Professional Regulation) from this office. Again, either call the Secretary's office of check their website.Get an Employers Tax Identification Number (EIN). Partnerships and corporations, with or without employees, must obtain an employer identification number. Complete and return IRS form SS-4. Simpler and quicker yet, apply online at www.irs.gov. Register for state tax numbers. Complete form S-1(available at www.state.vt.us/tax or www.cedoburlington.org) and mail to VT Department of Taxes. For questions on sales tax, withholding, corporate and other taxes call them: (802) 828.2505. Call insurance agents. You’ll need various types of insurance. Call three agents, discuss your business needs, get quotes, and compare price and service. |
 |
|
|
Your business may be subject to various permits, licenses and review. Check out the section on Special Considerations. For comprehensive assistance with larger projects of construction and improvements for new or existing commercial facilities, call CEDO at (802) 865-7144 or GBIC (802) 862-5726.
|
Introduction / Previous / Next
Page last updated
July 08, 2010
|