California Licensing Information

Important Points:

A business license is required for most types of business in the state of California. Business license board organizations issue various state business licenses.

How to Get a Business License in California:

If you plan to hire at least one employee, contact the Internal Revenue Service (1-800-829-1040) or visit them online to get a Federal Employer's Identification Number, and to request your w-4, SS-4, Circular E and Publication 334 forms.
Register your business entity for tax and employer identification.
To look up requirements and to obtain business license in state of California, use their business permitting and licensing information database.
- You can also check with Consumer Affairs to determine if your business requires license or permits.

California State Sales Tax:

California's combined state, county, and local sales and use tax is 7.25%
- Rate may be higher in cities and counties with special taxing districts. Find your county and city's sales tax rate here.

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