Iowa Business License

If you're going to start a business in Iowa, there are valuable resources to assist. The Iowa Economic Development Authority offers an in-depth website that contains an essential section on startups called "Entrepreneurial Assistance." There you'll discover the knowledge necessary to begin and run a successful Iowa business.

It's worth visiting the Small Business Development Center website for comprehensive guidance and how to create and run a business. The Iowa SBDC belongs to a national network of essential business centers. If you required confidential counseling or training on how to manage a company, you could find it there. When first starting, it pays to learn as much as possible about the process. Running a company requires gaining a firm grasp of all regulations and licensing requirements.

Another resource to use is the SBA website. The Small Business Administration of the U.S. has its district office in Des Moines. Their website has localized news, events, and resources for entrepreneurs and business owners. They also have a Resource Guide for small businesses that is downloadable from their site. There's always time to learn more about business fundamentals. You can tap into a network of counselors if you have specific questions.

Some businesses in Iowa require multiple licenses. Others will not require even one. Interestingly enough, Iowa does not provide a statewide business license.

Regulatory licenses are standard and impact specific industries, such as the following.

• Environmental
• Safety and Health
• Construction and Building

Your company may need any number of licenses or permits from regulatory agencies. Check out the "Licensing" section of the IEDA website. There you'll discover the precise requirements for each industry. If you need any more details, search by a keyword or issuing agency, research the subject thoroughly, because you'll need to handle all the appropriate forms and record-keeping. The process is straightforward, but does require attention to detail.

You may even need licenses on a localized basis. Certain cities and counties maintain individual licensing requirements. If your business operates in these jurisdictions, you'll need to abide by all the conditions. Check out the website for the town where your business will be, and find out whether you need a license or permit.

Limited liability companies, also known as LLCs, partnerships, and corporations, must file formation records with the Secretary of State. There's a wealth of information at the "IASourceLink" website. The "Business Entity Forms and Fees" section has everything business owners need to know about registration.

Various occupations and professions operating in Iowa also require licensing.

The Professional Licensing Bureau is in charge of the licensing and regulatory boards for occupations that include the following.

• Accountants
• Real Estate Broker
• Land Surveyors
• Architects
• Engineers
• Interior Designers
• Landscape Architects
• Real Estate Appraisers

Past these regulations, there are a few other professional licenses that other state agencies handle. A prime example is the Public Health Bureau, which oversees numerous roles in the medical industry. It's always worth performing a search online to find which specific agency handles your occupation.

Most businesses have separate trade names, distinct from their owner's full name. In Iowa, corporations, partnerships, and LLCs all choose a fictitious name when they form with the SOS. Some companies may also decide to use additional names when they operate. These assumed names are commonly known as DBAs, for "Doing Business As." It's also possible for a sole proprietorship to get a DBA, by filing in their county recorder's office.

Give some thought to your trade name. It will be the primary way your customers identify with your business. Check the website and search for all variations to ensure yours is original.

Businesses may decide to register an Iowa state service or trademark. These are different than the Federal ones and offer a diverse set of benefits. To find out if one makes sense for your enterprise, consult the SOS website, and look through the "Business Services" section for frequently answered questions. Such marks offer protection from competitors and help with branding. Spend time researching this crucial subject to see how it will impact your business.