How to Do Business Legally

Every new business owner should be aware that an occupational tax is necessary to operate legally in Georgia. The taxing jurisdiction will depend upon where the business is located. If the physical address of the business is within the corporate limits of a City, then the occupational tax must be obtained from the City; if the business is located outside the corporate limits of a city, then the occupational tax can be obtained from the county.

Requirements to Operate

Business owners should be aware of multiple state and federal requirements that are necessary to operate. This can include:

• Labor Law Compliance
• Occupancy Permits
• Sales and Use Tax
• Workers CompensationWithholding Tax to name a few

Legal Assistance

Finding out this information can be difficult since there are agencies at the federal, state, and local levels that may need to be consulted. The information in this packet is not all-inclusive and should not be considered a substitute for legal assistance from a qualified attorney. Also, since these requirements are subject to change, business owners should contact individual departments for the most current information.

First Stop Business Information Center

To this end, the Secretary of State's office offers the First Stop Business Information Center to assist business owners. The center is designed to offer one-stop shopping on the licensing and permitting of businesses in Georgia.