South Dakota Business Licensing

Important Points:

• South Dakota business license requirements vary depending on the type of business.
  • You many need a special license or registration with your city and/or county.
• Partnerships and sole proprietorships that use fictitious names need to register with the county Register of Deeds office.
• Limited partnerships and corporations must register with the South Dakota Secretary of State.

How to Get a Business License in South Dakota:

• If you plan to hire at least one employee, contact Internal Revenue Service to get an Employer ID Number (EIN), and to request your w-4, SS-4, Circular E and Publication 334 forms.
• Register your business entity.
  • Limited partnerships and corporations – register online.
  • Partnerships and sole proprietorships – contact your county’s Register of Deeds.
• Find information on how to obtain a South Dakota business license for your specific business at the South Dakota Economic Development website.
• Check with your local government for additional licensing requirements.

South Dakota State Sales Tax:

• South Dakota has a state sales tax of 4%.
  • Additional municipal sales and use taxes may apply. Find the sales tax rate for your specific area.

Useful Links:

• Fictitious Business Name Registration
• Trademark Registration
• Sales and Contractors Excise Tax License Application
• SBA South Dakota
• South Dakota Small Business Development Center
• Secretary of State: Business Services
• SCORE Counselors to America’s Small Business