Starting a Business in Nevada
The resources on this page explain the basic steps most business owners will need to take when starting or expanding a business in Nevada. If you are already a business owner, and want to find out about your legal requirements, visit our Operating a Business page.
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Step 1
Research and Plan Your Business
Use these tools and resources to help you prepare your business plan and become a successful business owner:- Nevada's Business Portal provides tools and resources to help your plan, start or expand your business.
- Business Planning Tools and Resources
- Step 2
Get Business Training and Expert Advice
Take advantage of free training and counseling services in your community. These services include everything from preparing a business plan, to getting financing, to help with expanding and relocating a business. - Step 3
Select a Location
The location of your business is a major factor in its success or failure. Get advice about choosing a customer-friendly location and complying with zoning laws. - Step 4
Finance Your Business
Unless you have a rich uncle, you probably will need some help to get started in business. Learn about government backed loans, venture capital and grants to help you get started. - Step 5
Select a Business Name
A fictitious name filing, also known as Doing Business As or DBA, allows you to create name for your business that is different than your personal name, the names of your partners or the officially registered name of your LLC or corporation. When a business name is different from the owner(s) full legal name(s), sole proprietorships and general partnerships to register with their county government. Corporations, LLCs, LLPs, and limited partnerships register an assumed name as part of their required business filings with the Nevada Secretary of State.
For help selecting a business name that will attract customers, visit our How to Name Your Business guide.
- Step 6
Determine the Legal Structure of Your Business
If your business is a corporation, a non-profit, a limited liability company or a partnership (limited, or limited liability) you must register with the state of Nevada. If your business is a sole proprietorship, you do not need to register your business with the state.For help selecting a legal structure for your business, visit our Business Incorporation guide.
- Step 7
Get an Employer Identification Number (EIN)
An EIN is also known as a federal tax identification number, and is used to identify a business entity. Employers with employees, business partnerships, and corporations and other types of organizations, must obtain an EIN from the U.S. Internal Revenue Service. The EIN is also known as an Employer Tax ID and Form SS-4:U.S. Internal Revenue Service
Phone: 1-800-829-4933 -
Step 8
Register for State Taxes
Businesses that operate in Nevada are required to register for one or more tax-specific identification numbers, licenses or permits, including income tax withholding, sales and use tax (seller's permit), and unemployment insurance tax. Contact the following agency for more information about business registration and your tax obligations: - Step 9
Obtain Business Licenses and Permits
In order to operate legally, most businesses require a business license or permit issued by the state and your local government. The following resources will help you determine your licensing requirements:- Info about business and occupational licenses required by the state.
- Guide to Business Licenses and Permits
Tools and resources to help you determine your licensing requirements.
- Step 10
Employer Responsibilities
If you are a new employer, our Ten Steps to Hiring Your First Employee will walk you through the legal steps you must take to hire your staff.
More Information
- Nevada Commission on Economic Development
Business development and relocation information for Nevada entrepreneurs.