Congratulations on your decision to start a business in Los Angeles. Los Angeles was built by entrepreneurs and small businesses continue to make up the backbone of this city.
SMALL BUSINESS START UP KIT
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Start Up LA: Ten Key Steps to Starting a Business in LA
The official guide to starting a business in the City of Los Angeles.
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REGISTER YOUR BUSINESS WITH THE CITY
Business Tax Registration Certificate
This is the basic form you need to register your business with the City of Los Angeles. Click here to learn more about this requirement.
OTHER BASIC STEPS TO GET STARTED
Search for Available Business Names
The California Secretary of State provides an online search tool to find available business names.
File a Doing Business As (DBA)
If you plan to do business under a different name than your own (e.g., Joe's Diner), you must file a "Doing Business As" with the Los Angeles County Clerk.
Obtain Required Permits and Licenses
Start with CalGold, an online database provided by the State of California. Also, browse through our Most Popular Downloads section to quickly find local permits.
Need additional assistance? Download Start Up LA or check out some of the resources below!
LOCAL BUSINESS ASSISTANCE RESOURCES
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STATE/FEDERAL BUSINESS ASSISTANCE RESOURCES
California Business Portal
Online resource for small businesses provided by the State of California.
Business.GOV
The official business link to the U.S. Government.
IRS Small Business One-Stop Resource Center
Small business start up guide from the federal government. Includes online workshops.
Small Business Administration (SBA) Online Courses
Free online courses that cover many important small business areas.