Starting a Business in Connecticut

The resources on this page explain the basic steps most business owners will need to take when starting or expanding a business in Connecticut. If you are already a business owner, and want to find out about your legal requirements, visit our Operating a Business page.

1. 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:

   • Connecticut Business Portal provides tools and resources to help your plan, start or expand your business.
   • Business Planning Tools and Resources
2. 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.

3. Step 3

   Select a Location
   The location of your business is a major factor in its success or failure. Get assistance on choosing a customer-friendly location and complying with zoning laws.

4. 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.

5. Step 5

   Select a Business Name
   Any person doing business in Connecticut under any name other than their own, must either register a trade name in the town where their business is conducted or register with the Connecticut Secretary of State as a corporation.

   For help selecting a business name that will attract customers, visit our How to Name Your Business guide.

6. 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 Connecticut. 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.

7. 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

   • Guide to the Employer Identification Number
   • Apply for an EIN Online
8. Step 8

   Register for State Taxes
   Businesses that operate in Connecticut 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:

   • Business Tax Registration
   • Tax Information and Forms
9. 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:

   • Connecticut 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.
10. 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

• Department of Economic and Community Development
  Start-up help and advice, including information on grants, loans and tax credits.