Self Employment
Learn about government programs and services that help self-employed individuals grow and manage their business.
Starting a Business
- Small Business Start-Up Guide
Comprehensive guide to starting a new business. Topics include financing, obtaining licenses and permits, and deciding on a business structure. - Self Employment Assistance for Unemployed Workers
Under this program, states pay a self-employed allowance, instead of regular unemployment insurance benefits, to help unemployed workers while they are establishing businesses and becoming self-employed. Participants receive weekly allowances while they are getting their businesses off the ground. - Guide to Buying Franchises and Other Business Opportunities
If you are considering buying a franchise or taking advantage of advertised business opportunities, makes sure you check these guides from the Federal Trade Commission that explain franchising rules and how to avoid scams.
Tax Information
- Employer Idenitifcation Number
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is also known as a federal tax identification number, and is used to identify a business entity. - Small Business and Self-Employed One-Stop Resource
Offers a broad range of state and local tax information including resources for specific industries, professions, self-employed entrepreneurs, employers and small businesses. - Online Classroom
The Small Business/Self-Employed online classroom has a series of self-directed workshops on a variety of topics for small business owners. - Self-Employment Tax
The Self-Employment Tax is a social security and Medicare tax for individuals who work for themselves. - Sole Proprietorships
Provides a listing of tax forms a sole proprietor is to file and additional resources.
Social Security
- Social Security Information for the Self-Employed
Includes information about how to report your earnings. - Work Activity Report - Form SSA-820-F4
Social Security benefit claim form for self-employed individiuals.
Government Contracting Opportunities
- Small Business Guide to Government Contracting
This guide provides information on programs that help small businesses successfully compete for federal contracting opportunities.
Resources for Disabled Business Owners
- Entrepreneur Resources for People with Disabilities
Information, resources and technical assistance to expand opportunities for self-employment and small business. - Self-Employment for People with Disabilities
This U.S. Department of Labor publication discusses important considerations for potential entrepreneurs with disabilities. - Small Business and Self-Employment Service (SBSES)
Provides information, counseling, and referrals about self-employment and small business ownership opportunities for people with disabilities.
Five Key Steps to Starting Up
Small Business Assistance
Programs and Services in Your Area
- Small Business Development Centers
Free start-up advice and training services in your local area. - U.S. Export Assistance Centers
Get free help exporting your products and services overseas. - Disaster Assistance
Financial assistance available following a disaster.