Nebraska Business License
Small business owners in Nebraska can visit the New Business Information section on the Secretary of State's (SOS) website. Among the information contained in that section includes advice on how to start a new small business. Additional information can be found on Nebraska's Department of Economic Development (NEDED) website, the Department of Labor (DOL) homepage, the Small Business Administration (SBA) website,and the Department of Revenue's page.
Applying for Multiple Business Licenses
It's important to know whether your Nebraska small business will require one or more licenses. A few of the most common licenses required in Nebraska include:
*Business licenses from the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)
*Agriculture-related permits and licenses
*Liquor and alcoholic beverage licenses
A number of state agencies are responsible for issuing these licenses. To find out who is responsible for issuing your business license, visit the state's official website at Nebraska.gov, and then navigate to the section on Business Licensing Resources.
In addition to statewide licenses, you could need to obtain one or more local licenses. To ensure you are in compliance, check your local government's website as well as the websites of any locations where you plan to conduct business. Keep in mind that some types of businesses are exempt from licensing under federal or state law.
Record Filing and Record-Keeping Procedures
Once you have obtained the necessary permits, you could be required to file certain records with the state if you are a corporation or Limited Liability Company (LLC). Check with the Secretary of State by visiting the New Business Information section of the official SOS website. There you can see a list of requirements and find out more details.
Securing a Professional License
Many Nebraska professions or occupations require licensing from the state. A good way to find basic licensing information is to visit the Professions and Occupations section of the state's DHHS website. Bear in mind that certain occupations such as doctors, accountants, lawyers, and engineers are not listed there. If you are employed in one of those professions, you will need to look for the regulatory board that governs your chosen field instead.
Registering Assumed or Trade Names
Nebraska business owners often elect to do business under a different name than their own. Furthermore, Nebraska corporations and Limited Liability Companies often register under one name during startup, and later begin conducting business under a different name. An alternative business name may sometimes be referred to as a "Doing Business As" or DBA, in addition to a trade name, assumed name or fictitious name. Nebraska law requires most types of businesses to register with the SOS if they intend to operate under a DBA, fictitious, or trade name. Nebraska has a publication requirement for registering such names as well.
Service Mark and Trademark Registration
You'll find a different legal definition for trademarks, service marks, and trade marks despite the fact that they all serve a common purpose. That purpose is to uniquely distinguish certain products, goods, services, or businesses from one another. They may even be used to distinguish your own goods, products, services or business from any of your competition's. Since they provide such an important function, you may wish to register your trademark, service mark, or trade name with the state. Do this by going to the Forms and Fees section of the Secretary of State's website. Keep in mind that state registration differs from federal registration.
FAQ
Are all Nebraska businesses required to have a local county/city license?
What questions might you be asked when applying for a city license?
When applying for a license to operate a city/county, you can expect to be asked some of these questions:
- Name of your company
- Resale tax #
- Employees
- Names, addresses, and email addresses of the owners
- State ID # Social security number or Federal ID #
- Description of your business
Do I have to register my company with the state?
If you plan to conduct retail sales or employ Nebraskans, you must register your business and get a Nebraska state identification number. To do this, fill out a Nebraska Tax Application Form through the Nebraska Department of Revenue. If you operate as a corporation, LLC, or limited partnership, you must register your business entity with the Nebraska Secretary of State. For more information, visit http://www.nebraska.gov.
What type of Nebraska licenses is required?
A Sales Tax permit is required for any business that involves retail sales or taxable services. The Nebraska Tax Application forms are used to obtain this permit. You can also use the Nebraska Tax Application to register for income tax, sales tax, and other miscellaneous taxes. You can also search online at www.revenue.ne.gov or call 1-800-742-7474 for additional information and guidance regarding taxing business.
Is there separate specialty licensing?
Some businesses may require additional permits or licenses at the Federal, State, or Local levels, including occupational or specialty Licensing, such as for tobacco sales. You may also need zoning permits and licensing to be allowed to operate. To find out more, contact the appropriate city department.
Do you have to pay fees?
The state license fee can vary depending on which license you seek. It can range from $10 to $100. Additional fees may apply for occupational or specialty licenses.
