Starting a Business in Virginia

The resources on this page explain the basic steps most business owners will need to take when starting or expanding a business in Virginia. 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:

   • Virginia Business Resources 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 advice about 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
   If business is conducted in Virginia under a name other than the legal business name, an assumed or fictitious name certificate must be filed in the in each county or city where business is to be conducted.
   
   In addition, if the entity is a limited partnership, a limited liability company, or a corporation, it must obtain a copy of each fictitious name certificate, attested by the Clerk of the Circuit Court where the original was filed, and file it with the Clerk of the State Corporation Commission.
   
   Read the Virginia Business Registration Guide for more information on business registration requirements for all types of legal entities.

   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
   Anyone who is planning to do business within the State of Virginia, using a name other than their own personal name, must register with the state of Virginia.

   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 Virginia 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:

   • 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

• Virgina Business Portal
  Provides a gateway to all government-to-business services, as well as legal requirements, including taxes, licenses, and much more.