Doing Business in Georgia

Doing business in Georgia can be quite promising from the point of view of stable growth and future expansion. Georgia boasts of a strong economy with the Real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) at $567.94 billion. The state has a pro-business climate driven by a wide variety of Georgia small business incentives. Georgia has also received from the Standard & Poor’s (AAA) the highest credit rating amongst the 15 states with AAA ratings. The state is also home to several Fortune 1000 companies as well as industries like finance, technology, insurance, real estate, manufacturing, logistics, service, film, transportation, communications, and trade shows. The progressive income tax structure along with tax credits and other tax-related benefits makes it easier for entrepreneurs to start a new business and achieve sustainable growth.

Why do businesses prefer doing business in Georgia?

Georgia is one of the few states in the nation that has been consistently ranked #1 for forming a startup or a small business. There are many reasons that have led to this ranking apart from the availability of Georgia small business grants, tax exemptions, and robust infrastructure. If you are wondering why Georgia is good for small businesses or startups then let us take a look at the several advantages and external factors that will help you in achieving business objectives and goals.

• Emerging startup or tech hub – Georgia has been earning the number 1 spot when it comes to tech hub rankings for quite a few years now. The capital city of Atlanta has been witnessing corporate innovation and is considered one of the foremost in embracing new technologies. The answer to why choose Georgia for small businesses lies in the unprecedented rise in the availability and accessibility to different types of startup and tech programs. These include incubators, accelerators, seed-stage venture capital, Georgia small business grants for tech startups, acceleration of customer acquisition programs, and product development using a wide range of technologies. Atlanta itself is home to more than 13,000 technology companies and there is always a new idea taking birth almost every day.
• Diverse Talent Pools – One of the first requirements that every new business has is that of a technically sound or skilled workforce. If you plan on doing business in Georgia then the good news is that there are several top-tier universities and colleges in the state. Some of the most advanced colleges and universities in bioscience and technology are based in Atlanta like Georgia Tech, Georgia State University, and Emory University. Some of these universities provide entrepreneurial training and development programs as well.
• Financing options – Small business owners and entrepreneurs often require funding when starting a new business. This is where Georgia small business grant programs can be quite useful. There are several programs that you can benefit from while doing business in Georgia like the Rural Business Opportunity Grant, grants by the Amber Foundation and Georgia-Pacific LLC, and Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant programs among others.

Small Business Incentive Programs and Grants in Georgia

One of the salient benefits of starting a new business in Georgia is that the state provides different avenues for securing funding, especially for small businesses. You will have access to a variety of Georgia small business grant programs as well as other business incentive programs like Georgia tax incentives for small and medium sized enterprises (SME’s). The programs are not tailor-made but can be helpful as every startup has an initial business formation and operational cost and this can vary according to the type of business activity and location. Let us look at some of the options that you can leverage.

Georgia tax incentives

As a new business, you can certainly leverage from different types of Georgia small business incentives programs especially when it comes to taxes. Once you form a business you may be required to file state and local taxes annually and the tax credits can help offset the total taxable amount thus helping you save money. There are different types of Georgia tax incentives programs offered by the Georgia Department of Revenue, Georgia Department of Community Affairs, and Georgia Department of Economic Development. Let’s look at some of the top incentive programs.

• Job tax credits – The primary objective of the jobs tax credits programs is to help create new jobs in the state of Georgia and this helps in reducing or even eliminating your business tax liability. This is a Georgia tax incentives program administered by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs and it gives businesses a tax credit for every new job created and ranges from $1,250 to $4,000 per year for 5 years. If your business is engaged in warehousing and distribution, manufacturing, processing, tourism, telecommunications, services, research and development, and even retail then you may qualify for this Georgia small business incentives tax credit program. The job tax credit program can be used for lowering any payroll withholding obligation for job creation.
• Quick start employee training – This is a Georgia small business incentives program where a business can leverage Workforce training programs in the state. It is also known as the Georgia Quick Start program and is a signature program of the state. There are no charges for this program and it is provided by the Technical College System of Georgia. This program can help you to hire and train skilled employees while doing business in Georgia.
• WorkSource Georgia – This is a Workforce Development program initiated by the Technical College System of Georgia. It is an employment and training program that is federally funded and its objective is to connect talent with an opportunity. This program is a part of the Georgia small business grants program known as the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).
• Georgia Centers of innovation – The Georgia Centers of Innovation (COI) is a different type of Georgia small business incentives program. It is the leading resource in the state for facilitating startup innovation. If you plan on doing business in Georgia then this program can be quite helpful as its objective is to help you to grow your business, launch new ideas, reshape the product line, and take your new business from an idea to its implementation. You will also get the opportunity to work hand-in-hand with some of the leading industry experts and Georgia business owners. There are 5 centers operational statewide and they are currently focusing on industry areas like Energy Technology, Aerospace, Logistics, Information Technology, and Manufacturing.

Are you thinking of starting a New Business in Georgia?

Invest Atlanta – Small business improvement grants

If you are wondering why Georgia, for a small business; you should check the Invest Atlanta initiative. This program is administered by the Atlanta economic development authority and its primary purpose is to strengthen the global competitiveness and economy of the city. The Small Business Improvement Grant is one of the several programs that are an integral part of the Invest Atlanta initiative. This Georgia small business grants program allows you as a small business owner to apply for a maximum grant of $20,000 for any form of interior and exterior improvements on your commercial property. There are certain guidelines for eligibility and they include:

• You have to use at least 50% of the allocated funds for exterior improvements
• Your improvement project should be less than 15,000 square feet
• The exterior improvements should be visible
• Some of the eligible exterior improvements include lighting, painting, doors, windows, signage, framing, awnings, canopies, fencing, gates, and landscaping among others.
• Some of the eligible interior improvement includes walls, plumbing, flooring, HVAC, ceilings, water heaters, and structural repairs among others.

Small Business Grants for women in Georgia

If you are a woman entrepreneur with a great startup idea and don’t know how to secure funds then Georgia small business grants for women is an opportunity worth applying for. The most popular among such grants is the Amber Grant for Women where-in you can qualify for a grant award of $10,000. Once you get the grant award, you will be automatically eligible for winning the year-end grant award of $25,000. The purpose of this grant is to help empower women business owners who are planning to start a business or are currently doing business in Georgia.

State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI)

The State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) is a state lending program administered and overseen by the U.S. Department of the Treasury. This is one of the leading Georgia small business incentives programs that is focused on supporting small businesses as well as manufacturers. There are several financial and business programs available under the SSBCI initiative and this may vary from one state to another. If you are doing business in Georgia then you can leverage two Georgia SSBCI programs, which are:

• Georgia Loan Participation Program (GA LPP) – This is a type of Georgia small business grant or loan program where the state will purchase participation in an approved loan, up to a maximum of 25%. The loans should ideally range from $100,000 to $5,000,000 and the existing maximum participation amount in Georgia is $250,000.
• Georgia Small Business Credit Guaranty (SBCG) – This is another SSBCI program, which is considered a 50% loan guarantee program. The current maximum loan amount in Georgia is $400,000 and there is a guarantee of $200,000.

Micro Loans/CDFI

The availability and access to capital through grants and loans is one of the reasons why Georgia for small business is an entrepreneur’s choice. Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) are mostly engaged in providing options for small businesses lending in the state to help entrepreneurs in creating and grow sustainable businesses. Some of the top CDFIs offering loans are:

• Georgia Cities Foundation
• Albany Community Together, Inc. (ACT!)
• Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs (ACE)
• Southwest Georgia United (SWGAU)
• Small Business Assistance Corporation (SBAC)​

Rural Business Loans

If you are planning to set up your business in rural Georgia and are looking for financial aid opportunities then there are several options. The most recommended is the Rural Business Development Grants administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development. This is a Georgia small business grants program designed towards providing technical training and assistance to rural businesses. If you are doing business in Georgia and you have less than 50 new employees and your gross revenue is less than $1 million then you will be qualified to apply for this grant.

Federal Grants & Loans

As a first-time business owner or an entrepreneur, the need for funding is integral to the sustainability of a business. The U.S. government offers Federal Grants & Loans in different states including Georgia to ensure financial aid is available to small businesses. Some of the popular Georgia small business grants and funding options available include:

• Early Stage Innovation Fund
• Revolving Loan Funds and 7(a) loans by Georgia’s Regional Commissions
• Loans and funding options by Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC)
• Export loan guarantee programs by Export-Import Bank of the United States
• Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)
• Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR)

Ready to Start Business in Georgia?

Every new business or startup requires financial assistance and when it comes to making the company operational, Georgia small business grants play a key role. If you are thinking of doing business in Georgia then the first step is to register your startup as this will help you to apply for these incentives, grants, and loans.

Georgia Business Tax

If you are planning to start a small business in Georgia then according to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), you will be required to file some form of small business tax in Georgia. The type of tax you may have to file will be dependent on the type of business structure. The business structure will also define the Georgia business tax rate like sole proprietorships and partnerships file taxes at the owner’s personal income tax rate and not the federal or corporation tax rate. It is also important to note that depending on the type of business structure, you may need to apply for and obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as this will assist you with the filing of tax returns in this state.

What taxes do businesses pay in Georgia?

You can form a variety of businesses in Georgia right from a sole proprietorship to an LLC or a business corporation. Each of these businesses will have different tax statuses in the state and may have to file some form of Georgia business tax. Your business may require you to file a single business tax or multiple taxes that will require you to use a Georgia business tax calculator for determining the rate or amount of tax. Each state has its own set of tax requirements, rates, and filing processes as well as tax deductions and credits that help reduce your tax liability. Let’s try to understand the different forms of taxes applicable to small businesses in the state of Georgia.

Corporate income and net worth tax

There are different types of taxes for companies and individuals like the corporate income and net worth tax. The corporate income tax is a form of Georgia business tax that takes into account a non-graduated percentage based on the federal taxable net income of a corporation and is also modified by Georgia statutory adjustments. This form of corporate tax has a flat Georgia business tax rate of 5.75%.

Sales and use tax

One of the important small business taxes in Georgia is the sales and use tax. This tax is normally imposed on the retail sales price of any tangible personal property as well as specific services. In the state of Georgia, specific services include the sale of accommodation, charges related to participation in amusement activities and games, limo or taxi services, etc. Georgia imposes sales tax on charges by a seller towards completing the sale of a taxable property pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 48-8-2(34)(A).

• The purchase price of the said property using the Georgia business tax rate or the state and local sales tax rate
• The fair market value of the said property using state and local sales tax rate

Withholding tax

A type of small business tax in Georgia is known as the withholding tax. As the name suggests, this tax refers to an amount that a company will withhold from the employee’s wages and pay it directly to the state. This type of tax is withheld from different sources like:

• Employee wages
• Pension and annuity payments
• Lottery winnings
• Nonresident distributions
• Other sources of income as defined by state and IRS

Are you thinking of starting a Georgia LLC or a Corporation?

How Georgia Businesses are Taxed?

If you are planning to start a new business in Georgia then one of the important annual requirements is filing small business tax in Georgia. The state has different types of taxes at the federal, state, and local level, and the taxes you file can vary according to the business structure you have formed. You may have to file more than one form of business tax and may also need a Georgia business tax calculator to determine your taxes. So, let us look at the different types of entities and their tax obligations in the state.

Taxes for an LLC

If you start a Limited Liability Company in Georgia then it will be considered a pass-through entity for taxation purposes. This means that the said LLC is not required to file federal or state taxes as a business corporation does. Instead of filing Georgia business tax by the LLC, the income to be taxed will pass through to the owner of the said business and you and other members will be required to file personal income tax on the same at a rate of 5.75%.

Taxes for a C Corporation

If you are planning to form a C corporation in Georgia then your company will be subjected to Georgia Corporation tax. A C Corporation is a traditional corporation and will be required to file federal tax. The Georgia business tax rate is 5.75% of the Georgia taxable net income for a corporation. The said company may also be required to file net worth tax using the Georgia Form 600 (Corporation Tax Return).

• Withholding tax if the corporation has employees
• Sales tax if your company sells tangible personal property or certain services
• Use tax if your corporation buys non-exempt items outside the state and brings them into Georgia
• Transportation services tax if your company operates prearranged services for the public like limousine services or sport utility vehicles.

Taxes for an S Corporation

An S Corporation is quite similar to an LLC when it comes to filing Georgia business tax. It is not required to pay Georgia Corporation tax as a company and instead, taxes have to be filed by the shareholders on their personal tax returns as an S Corp follows pass-through taxation. Apart from this, an S corporation will be required to file the net worth tax as well as withholding tax (if there are employees).

Taxes for a Sole Proprietorship

If you form a sole proprietorship in Georgia then it will not be subject to the corporate income tax or the net worth tax. Since this is a sole trader business that comprises a single owner, the sole proprietor or trader will be responsible for filing income tax on their individual tax returns. The small business tax in Georgia will be calculated based on the distributions made to the sole proprietor. The owner of a sole proprietorship will also need to establish a tax account with the state online through Georgia Tax Center (GTC).

Taxes for Partnerships

If you form a partnership company in Georgia then the small business tax in Georgia will be quite similar to that of Georgia LLC tax or sole proprietorship taxes. Partners in this type of business structure will be required to file taxes on any amount distributed to them through the business. They will be required to file individual tax returns or personal tax returns. If you own a property in Georgia then you will be required to file an income tax return using Form 700. It is also important to note that partnerships are not subjected to any net worth tax.

Ready to Incorporate your Georgia Company?

Whether you are planning to form a C Corporation, an S Corporation, Sole Proprietorship, or a limited liability company (LLC) in Georgia, the new business formation process will be different, extensive, and time consuming. This is where IncParadise can provide meaningful assistance. We are an expert incorporation service provider in Georgia and can help to register your LLC or corporation in Georgia.

Georgia Foreign Qualification

Georgia is home to approximately 1.1 million small businesses including domestic and foreign entities. Some of these businesses went through foreign qualifications in Georgia as they were looking to expand their physical presence in the state. So, whether you are looking at expansion, or looking for a pro-business environment or even a favorable legal and tax environment, you can always consider doing business in Georgia. A foreign LLC or a foreign corporation doing business in Georgia can benefit from opportunities including grants, VC funding, accelerators, business incentives, Foreign Trade Zones (FTZ), and training programs for entrepreneurs among others.

What is a Georgia foreign qualification?

Foreign qualification in Georgia is a process through which any company can register or operate their businesses in any state aside from the home state. The home state refers to the jurisdiction where the business was initially formed or incorporated. This process will allow you to legally operate your business within the state and pursue business and financial opportunities offered by the state. The biggest advantage of the Georgia foreign LLC registration instructions and process is that you will not be required to register or incorporate an entirely new business.

Example: If you have formed a domestic LLC in Alabama by filing the Certificate of Formation then Alabama will be considered your home state. Now, if you are thinking of expanding to Georgia then you will need to file for Georgia LLC foreign registration instead of a new business or domestic business registration. This process will help you obtain a certificate, which authorizes the Alabama LLC to conduct business in Georgia.

Doing business in Georgia

When an LLC or a business corporation operates in any state other than the home state or the state where it was initially registered then it may be required to “qualify” or apply for Georgia foreign corporation registration to conduct business in that state. The qualification is required as Georgia laws state that any LLC or corporation that was formed in another state will be considered a foreign entity.

• If a company is securing or collecting debts
• If a company is transacting business in interstate commerce
• If an LLC is selling through independent contractors
• If a corporation has a bank account in Georgia
• If an entity has an office, or people in Georgia for handling ownership or membership interests
• If a company is settling or defending a lawsuit
• If a company is dealing with internal business affairs like holding meetings in the state
• If an entity owns an interest in or is controlling another business entity, which is conducting business in Georgia

Georgia Foreign Qualification Process

If you are already operating an LLC or corporation in any state other than Georgia and want to expand your business in the new state then you will have to apply for foreign qualification in Georgia. The Georgia Foreign LLC registration instructions and process may be different from that of a corporation. The important thing to note is that Georgia Code has strict rules in place when it comes to failure to register a foreign entity with the state. Let us study the foreign qualification requirements, processes, and laws in detail for both corporations and limited liability companies.

Georgia foreign Corporation registration

If you already own a corporation in another state and want to expand the operations to Georgia State then you will need to apply for a foreign qualification in Georgia. The Georgia foreign corporation registration is governed by the 2020 Georgia Code, Title 14 – Corporations, Partnerships, and Associations, Chapter 2 – Business Corporations, Article 15 – Foreign Corporations. You will have to obtain the authority to transact business prior to starting business operations. The process for obtaining this authority is as follows:

• Business Name – The first and foremost aspect you need to check is the availability of the business name. You can conduct a business name search to check if the name of your corporation as registered in the home state is available or not. If it is not available then you will need to identify an alternate name and reserve it with the state. Alternatively, you can also register a DBA (Doing Business As) or a trade name in Georgia. This is the first step toward Georgia foreign corporation registration as without a name, the said business cannot get the authority to transact in the state.
• Georgia Registered Agent – One of the important Georgia foreign corporation filing requirements is hiring a registered agent in the state. According to Georgia Code, GA Code § 14-2-1507 (2020), a foreign corporation will not be authorized to conduct business in this state if they are unable to continuously maintain a registered agent in Georgia. We at IncParadise are one of the top Georgia registered agents and have helped several domestic and foreign entities to incorporate in this state.
• Certificate of Authority – The most important step toward Georgia foreign corporation registration is to file the Application for certificate of authority pursuant to GA Code § 14-2-1503 (2020). It has to be filed with the Office of Secretary of State, Corporations Division along with a filing fee of $225. You can file the application online or by mail. The fee for the latter is $235. The processing time can vary from 7 to 15 business days from the date of receipt of the application by the Corporations Division. One of the Georgia foreign corporation filing requirements is a certificate of existence or certificate of good standing issued by the home state and it should not be more than 90 days old.

Georgia foreign LLC registration

There are different types of Limited Liability Companies like single-member or multi-member LLCs that you can form in Georgia. Now, if you already own an LLC in another state and want to expand to Georgia then you don’t have to register a separate business but simply apply for a foreign qualification in Georgia. You will be required to procure a certificate of authority, which will allow you to operate your foreign LLC in the state. The Georgia Foreign LLC registration instructions and requirements are governed by Article 7 in Chapter 11 of the 2020 Georgia Code. The processes involved in the foreign qualification of an LLC are:

• Business Name – The Georgia foreign LLC registration instructions require you to check the availability of your existing business name or the name that you registered in the home state. You can conduct a business name search to check if the existing name is available or not. If it is not available there you register a DBA (Doing Business As) or a trade name in Georgia. You can also conduct a trademark search using Trademark Electronic Search System (TESS) to identify the availability of a chosen trade name. This is the first step towards Georgia LLC’s foreign registration.
• Georgia Registered Agent – When you form any business in Georgia or any other state, due service of process needs to be followed. The service of process is carried out by registered agents in the said state. Some states don’t require you to maintain an agent while other states make it mandatory to hire an RA and Georgia is one such state. The Georgia Code, GA Code § 14-11-703 (2020) explicitly states that it is necessary to hire and maintain a registered agent in the state. It is important to note that RA services not only fulfill service of process but can also assist with other business related requirements like filing of annual reports. We at IncParadise are one of the top Georgia registered agents and have helped several domestic and foreign LLCs to register in this state.
• Certificate of Authority – Every foreign business wanting to operate in the state of Georgia will need some form of authorization from the state. The authorization can vary according to the type of business structure and the state. A Georgia LLC foreign registration will require you to submit an application for a certificate of authority pursuant to GA Code § 14-11-702 (2020). The application can be filed online or by mail with the Office of Secretary of State, Corporations Division. If you are submitting online then the filing fee is $225 and if filing by mail then the fee is $235. The Georgia Foreign LLC registration instructions state that the processing time can vary from 7 to 15 business days from the date of receipt of the application by the Corporations Division.

Need Any Assistance in Applying for Georgia Foreign Qualification?

If you already own a business in any state other than Georgia but are thinking of expanding to or conducting business in this state then you will be required to apply for a foreign qualification in Georgia. As one of the leading Georgia registered agents, IncParadise can assist you with the process of foreign LLC formation or incorporation.

Doing Business As or DBA in Georgia

Georgia is home to 1.1 million small businesses and this constitutes different business structures like sole proprietorships, partnerships, LLCs, and corporations among others. Some of these businesses choose to apply for Georgia DBA online to necessitate business operations in the state. Georgia trade name registration is governed by the 2020 Georgia Code, Title 10 – Commerce and Trade, Chapter 1 – Selling and Other Trade Practices. A DBA also known as a trade name in the state is not a mandatory requirement although it is important to understand what a DBA is and whether your company requires it.

What is DBA in Georgia?

If you are planning to start and establish a small business in Georgia then the first step would be to identify an appropriate name. There are primarily two types of business names and they are either based on the name of the owner or any other name except that of the owner. The latter is considered a DBA or “doing business as”. A DBA name is also referred to as a trade name in Georgia, a fictitious business name, or an assumed name. If you file an online DBA in Georgia application then the chosen trade name will be considered as the operating name of your company as opposed to legal names reserved with the state like those used by business corporations or limited liability companies. Let’s look at an example to understand a DBA.

Example: If you are planning to start a bakery in Atlanta, GA and if you are the sole owner then there are two business name options. You can name it after your name like Melissa Johnson Cakes. In such a scenario, this will be the legal name of the store. Now, if you don’t want your name as the brand name then you can opt for something like Melissa’s Cookies or Baking with Melissa. In such a scenario, you will need to apply for an online DBA Georgia registration.

• You need to identify your brand identity and then choose a DBA accordingly. This will ensure your chosen name reflects the company values correctly e.g., Ryan’s Digital or James’ Physiotherapy.
• Try to ensure your chosen DBA or trade name in Georgia is simple. You can also opt for a short and creative name e.g. Rhiana Bakes.
• When you choose a name, there could be trademark issues. If you are thinking ‘how do I look up a DBA in Georgia’ then try searching for trademarks in the database of the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). You can use the Trademark Electronic Search System for this.
• One of the aspects to consider in this digital age is SEO. If you want a business name that is search engine optimized then use SEO Business name generator tools like Namelix, SEMRush, Moz Pro, and Looka.

Filing DBA in Georgia for LLC and Corporation

DBA stands for “doing business as” and is a type of business name that is more common amongst sole proprietorship entities but this doesn’t mean a limited-liability company or a corporation cannot use such a name. There are certain scenarios where-in an LLC or a corporation will apply for a Georgia DBA online. Some of the classic scenarios for choosing a DBA are:

• An LLC or a corporation that is already established but wants to rebrand or create an offshoot entity may opt for Georgia DBA online application. Choosing a trade name in Georgia will lower the cost and reduce the time of creating a new LLC or business corporation.
• An LLC or a corporation that exists in another state and wants to start in Georgia. In this scenario, their existing business name might not be available for reservation and if such a company wants to conduct their business using the same name then the alternative is filing a DBA in Georgia.

Do you want to file a Georgia DBA for your company?

Do Georgia DBA Name Search

If you are facing the question, ‘how do I look up a DBA in Georgia’ then the answer lies in conducting a thorough search for existing DBA or trade names. Name search is important whether you are planning to go with a traditional LLC or corporation name or a fictitious name. The objective of this search is to ensure a chosen name is available so that you can apply for Georgia DBA online. There are three ways to conduct this name search and they are:

• Search through the business entity database of the Georgia Corporations Division
• Conduct a search for trademarks using the trademark database also known as Trademark Electronic Search System (TESS)
• Conduct a Georgia trademark search using the trademarks database of the Georgia Corporations Division

Register your DBA with the county clerk of superior court

If you are wondering how to obtain a DBA in Georgia then it is important to identify whether your chosen trade name is in use or not. Once you have conducted a fictitious name search and if the DBA is available then the next step would be filing a DBA in Georgia. When it comes to fictitious or assumed names, the filing regulations are different for each state in the USA. In the state of Georgia, you will need to file a DBA with the Clerk of the Superior Court.

Publish a notice in the local newspaper

One of the primary requirements after filing a DBA in Georgia is to publish a copy of the trade name registration in a local newspaper. According to Georgia state law, it should be published in a newspaper that the Sheriff’s office of the said county uses for legal advertisements. You have to publish Georgia trade name registration information once a week for two consecutive weeks and ensure to keep a copy of the Publisher’s Affidavit as proof. The cost of publishing will vary according to the newspaper and the county.

Managing Georgia DBA

Filing a DBA in Georgia makes it possible for businesses to transact in the state using the fictitious name or trade name. Every state has its own set of DBA rules and regulations especially when it comes to the renewal of a DBA, changing a trade name, and canceling the DBA. Let us look at the renewal, change, or cancellation processes or how they work post Georgia trade name registration.

How to renew a Georgia DBA?

Many states require you to renew a DBA annually or after a specific period according to state laws. On the contrary, a Georgia trade name registration means that you are not required to renew it. The DBA will be applicable till the time you cancel it or make amendments.

How to change a Georgia DBA?

After filing a DBA or a trade name in Georgia, if you want to change the said name then the option is to apply for an amendment. You will be required to file an Amendment to Trade Name Application, have it notarized, and submit it to the county clerk of superior court in the said county. The filing fee may vary from one county to another for example the fee in Fulton County, GA is $171.

How to cancel Georgia DBA?

After filing a DBA in Georgia, you may at some point in time want to cancel the trade name. There could be several reasons for canceling a DBA including dissolving the business itself. If you want to withdraw or cancel your Georgia trade name registration then it is possible. There is a process for the same and the application and procedure can vary from one county to another. In Gwinnett County, you will be required to file a Trade Name Cancellation Request Form with the Gwinnett County Superior Court, Trade Name Division. However, in the County of Forsyth, you will be required to file an Affidavit to Cancel Registered Trade Name with the Office of Clerk of Superior Court.

Need Any Assistance in Filing Georgia DBA?

Filing a DBA in Georgia takes place with the office of the County Clerk of Higher Court and not the state. Hence, the process, documentation, and fee may vary from one county to another. Georgia DBA online application is an intricate process and IncParadise can provide valuable assistance with the process. We have expertise and knowledge regarding state and county laws pertaining to trade names and can help you to register Georgia DBA.

Business License in Georgia

A Georgia business license is a specific document that is issued by the state government, other government agencies, city or local county. This is also considered a permit and grants a company to operate or transact at a specific geographic location within the state. Each state has its own laws, regulations, and requirements when it comes to applying for and issuance of a license or permit. Some states have general business licenses while others have local licenses. The defining factor for the type of license or permit required is mostly business activity but in some states like Georgia, the licensing requirement and type is based on the location as well.

What business license do I need in Georgia?

In order to understand how to obtain a Georgia business license, it is important to identify whether you really need a license and if yes then what are the types of licenses or permits applicable. Unlike some of the other states like Delaware or Washington; Georgia doesn’t have a state-level general business license. Since every new or existing business in the state requires an operating license or even a permit. Some of the factors that play a key role in defining the need for a Georgia business licenses are:

• If you are planning to start a retail business then you will require a sales tax permit or sellers permit
• If your profession falls under those specified by the professional licensing board like athletic training, Security Company, or landscape artist then a professional license would be required from the appropriate licensing board.
• Different counties and cities in Georgia have their own licensing regulations and requirements e.g., if your business is situated in Cobb County then you will require Occupation Tax Certificate as well as Zoning sign-off.

Want to know more about what Business Licenses you need in Georgia?

Seller’s Permit in Georgia

One of the important forms of Georgia business license that specific entities would require in the state is the seller’s permit. This type of permit as the name suggests is required by any business new or existing that sells or buys tangible goods in the state. If you are an entity or an individual selling online including e-commerce, through retail, or wholesale; you will need to obtain a sales and use tax number in Georgia pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 48-8-2. The seller’s permit is a small business license in Georgia that you can obtain after registering for sales and can use tax numbers online using the Georgia Tax Center (GTC).

Georgia Business Licenses for Specific Occupations and Professions

One of the important forms of Georgia business license and permits is those associated with specific occupations and professions. Different people with specific skill sets pursue professionals based on such skill sets and these professions can pave the door for small businesses or startups. There are several state agencies responsible for certifying and licensing a wide variety of professionals, which can vary according to the industry and the state organization. The best place to conduct a Georgia business license search for professions is with the Professional Licensing Boards Division governed by the office of the Secretary of State (SOS).

• Architects & Interior Designers
• Athletic & Entertainment Commission
• Conditioned Air Contractors
• Occupational Therapists
• Landscape Architects
• Long-Term Care Facility Administrators
• Water & Wastewater Treatment Plants
• Professional Counselor or Social Worker
• Private Detectives & Security Agencies
• Immigration Assistance

Where Can I Apply For a Business License in Georgia?

The issuing authority for Georgia business licenses and permits differ according to the type of business activity, the profession, and the location of the company. Hence, it is important to conduct a Georgia business license search to identify the type of license or permit required and accordingly apply for it with the appropriate authority. The most important type of license is the business tax certificate.

Example: If you start a small business in the City of Atlanta then you will need to apply for a business tax certificate. You may also need to apply for regulatory permits prior to applying for the certificate. You need to conduct a Georgia business license search using the regulatory permit directory to determine whether such a license or permit is required. If you are planning to sell alcoholic beverages then you will apply for a permit with the Atlanta Police Department – License and Permit Unit and similarly, if you plan to start a Pet Grooming (Kennel) then you will need to apply with the Georgia Department of Agriculture.

How Do I Get More Information About Business Licensing in Georgia?

When you start a small business in Georgia, your licensing requirements can be different from other businesses in the same industry. You may need to apply for single or multiple Georgia business licenses but it always helps to know the type of licenses required by your company. There are several resources that can help you in this endeavor including the first stop business guide by the office of the Secretary of State. You can also check the Rules and Regulations of the State of Georgia, Department 295 for details on licensing procedures in the state and Georgia business license renewal or expiration.

Need any Assistance in Obtaining Your Georgia Business License?

If you are planning to start a new business in Georgia then one of the primary requirements is to ensure you obtain a Georgia business license. Licenses or permits will provide you with the necessary authority to conduct business in the state. The type of license will depend on the type of business activity, location, and even profession or occupation.

Sole Proprietorship in Georgia

Georgia has the ninth largest economy in the US with contributions from several top industries like agriculture, advanced manufacturing, tourism, aerospace, food and beverages, forearms, and heavy equipment among others. If you have a business idea then you can start a sole proprietorship in Georgia as the state offers just the right business climate. The state is also home to startup accelerators and incubator grant programs for small businesses, and state incentives programs.

What is a sole proprietorship in Georgia?

A sole proprietorship is a type of unincorporated business that is owned and operated by an individual. If you start a sole proprietorship in Georgia then there will be no distinction whatsoever between your company and you especially when it comes to filing taxes. You will be entitled to all profits made by the business and will also be responsible for all losses, debts, and liabilities of the company. This type of company is also known as individual entrepreneurship or sole tradership. If you want to know how to start a sole proprietorship in Georgia then first you will need to understand the various features of this form of entity structure.

Important features of sole proprietorship in Georgia

A sole proprietorship is one of the oldest business structures and is also known as a sole trade organization or entity. If you are thinking of filing a sole proprietorship in Georgia then there are several key features that you need to know about. The important features of a sole proprietorship are:

• This type of business is considered a one man ownership entity, which means that if you start a sole proprietorship in Georgia then you are the owner.
• It is not a separate business entity unlike LLC’s where the business and the owners are considered separate. There will be no distinction between the entity and the owner.
• Registering a sole proprietorship in Georgia means that all management, financial, and operational decisions will be made by the owner without any interference from others in the company.
• When it comes to Georgia taxes; a sole proprietorship will file taxes through the individual or owner’s income tax return.
• Starting a sole proprietorship in Georgia is easy and involves fewer formalities as compared to other forms of businesses like corporations, or LLCs.
• Filing a sole proprietorship in Georgia means that there will be an unlimited liability. As an owner, you will be personally liable for any losses or debts.
• Since there are no partners or co-owners in this form of business, the process of dissolution is also quite simple.
• If you are wondering how to start a sole proprietorship in Georgia then the answer is quite simple. You are not required to file any formation document for conducting business in the state unlike for corporations or limited-liability companies.

Are you ready to start a sole proprietorship in Georgia?

Steps to Start Sole Proprietorship in Georgia

If you are thinking of filing a sole proprietorship in Georgia then you need to first start with understanding the market, the state laws, and the requirements associated with conducting a business. There are certain requirements to fulfill and this can vary from one state to another like a sole proprietorship Georgia lookup for business names or knowing the licenses or permits that will be required by your company. Let us look into these important requirements in detail as they will enable you to set up a business and run it smoothly.

1. Prepare a business plan

One of the important and often undermined drivers of a sole proprietorship business is a good business plan. The need for such a plan lies in the fact that it can help your company to grow and become established after registering a sole proprietorship in Georgia. A business plan is considered a strategic plan and will help you in setting specific business related objectives based on market research, and even provides ways to develop new alliances. If you are planning to start a sole proprietorship in Georgia then a business plan should ideally focus on the following key areas:

• Executive Summary
• Mission, Goals, and Objectives
• Organizational Matters
• Personnel and Outside Services
• Risk Management Strategy
• Product or Services
• Target Audience
• Competition Analysis
• Situation Analysis
• SWOT Analysis
• Marketing Plan
• Distribution, Promotion, and Pricing
• Financial Plan

2. Choose a Georgia business name

When you start a sole proprietorship in Georgia or any new business for that matter, one of the first things to identify is a business name. The name of the company is integral to its very existence and hence needs to be well thought out. In a sole proprietorship, the company name is usually the personal name or the owners’ name although you can also opt for a fictitious name also known as the “doing business as” name. You can conduct a sole proprietorship Georgia lookup when choosing a name as there are plenty of examples available online. Some of the fundamental aspects of choosing a name for your company are:

• Keep the name as simple as possible
• The name should be easy to pronounce
• The company name should represent your product or service
• Conduct a copyright or trademark search for the chosen name
• Check for the availability of a domain name based on the company name

3. File Assumed business name

If you are wondering how to start a sole proprietorship in Georgia then the first step is to identify a name. Most sole proprietorships use a DBA name, which is also known as a fictitious name or an assumed name. It is because this form of business is not considered a separate legal entity from its owner. If you want to start a sole proprietorship in Georgia using any other name apart from your name then you will need to file a Georgia trade name.

For example: If your name is John Reese and you want to start a cookie store in Georgia, then you can simply use your name like ‘John Reese’. Alternatively, if you want to give it a more personal touch then you can name it “John’s Crumbling Cookies”. In such a scenario you will need to file a DBA or trade name before you can start a sole proprietorship in Georgia. We at IncParadise can help you with the filing of a DBA (doing business as) in this state.

4. Get EIN

Filing a sole proprietorship in Georgia means that you will be required to pay income tax on your personal return since the business and the owner are considered the same. Normally, you will need the Social Security number (SSN) to file personal income tax but in specific scenarios, you may be required to apply for and obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN). After registering a sole proprietorship in Georgia, you may need to apply for an EIN if:

• Your company has employees
• You have a Keogh plan
• You are filing pension plan returns
• You have to file Chapter 7 or Chapter 11 bankruptcy
• You have to file sales tax in Georgia

5. Obtain necessary licenses and permits

Once you start a sole proprietorship in Georgia, you need to ensure the business is operational or you are able to transact in the city or county your company is based in. This is possible only when you have obtained the necessary licenses and permits. You may require multiple licenses or permits depending on the type of business activity. Business licensing can be categorized under:

• County or local licensing
• Professional or regulated licensing

6. Open a bank account for your Georgia business

A sole proprietorship business is a single owner driven and controlled business. Since the business and the owner are not considered separate entities like in an LLC; you will be required to file a personal income tax return. Hence, it is very important to ensure the revenue generated or expenditures of your business are separate from your personal bank account. This can be made possible by opening a business bank account using which you can make business related transactions. You can open this business account before or after filing a sole proprietorship in Georgia.

7. Report and pay taxes

Registering a sole proprietorship in Georgia means that you will be required to report taxes annually. As a sole proprietor, you will be required to establish a Georgia Tax Center (GTC) account with the Department of Revenue (DOR). You will need the following information for registering such an account:

• Social security number (SSN) or Employer Identification Number (EIN)
• Any recent federal adjusted gross income (FAGI) or Adjusted Gross Income (AGI)
• Your NAICS code
• The type of tax account you want to register for

Ready to Start a Sole Proprietorship Business in Georgia

A sole proprietorship is one of the simplest business structures that you can form. Filing a sole proprietorship in Georgia will not require you to register with the office of the Secretary of State but there will be a certain amount of paperwork involved in making your company operational. This is where IncParadise can provide expertise towards ensuring you are able to start your sole proprietorship business with ease in the state.