How to Register a Business in Georgia: A Step-by-Step Guide for Atlanta Entrepreneurs

Starting a business in Atlanta is exciting. You have ideas, energy, and a vision for what’s next. Before you can open your doors or launch your website, you need to get your business officially registered in Georgia. Here’s a clear path you can follow, with each step explained in friendly detail so you can get set up without extra stress.

Step 1: Decide on a Business Structure

Your first choice is the legal form of your business. Common options are:

• Sole Proprietorship: Simple to set up but offers no separation between your personal assets and business liabilities.
• Partnership: Ideal when you and one or more partners share ownership. You’ll need a partnership agreement spelling out roles and profit sharing.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC): Protects personal assets and offers flexibility. Many small businesses choose this structure.
• Corporation: Best for businesses planning to raise investment or offer stock. It involves more paperwork and formal requirements.

Pick the structure that matches your plans. If you plan to grow or seek outside funding, an LLC or corporation often makes sense.

Step 2: Choose a Business Name

Your business name has to be unique in Georgia. To check availability:

1. Visit the Georgia Secretary of State’s website.
2. Search the business name database.

When you find a name you like that’s free, reserve it online if you’re not ready to file immediately. Name reservation holds it for 30 days.

Step 3: Register with the Secretary of State

For LLCs and corporations, filing articles with the Georgia Secretary of State is the official registration step.

• LLC: File Articles of Organization.
• Corporation: File Articles of Incorporation.

You can complete the process online. The fee for an LLC is $100. For a corporation, the fee is $110. Standard processing takes a few business days.

Step 4: Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN)

Even if you have no employees, an EIN from the IRS helps separate business and personal finances. You use it for:

• Opening a business bank account
• Filing tax returns
• Applying for licenses and permits

You can get your EIN instantly by applying online at IRS.gov.

Step 5: Register for State Taxes

Most businesses in Georgia must register for state taxes with the Georgia Department of Revenue. Common registrations include:

• Sales Tax: If you sell goods or certain services, you need to collect and remit sales tax.
• Withholding Tax: If you have employees, you must withhold state income tax from wages.

Register online at the Georgia Tax Center. Keep your EIN handy.

Step 6: Get Local Licenses and Permits

Atlanta and individual counties may require specific permits, depending on your industry.

• Check the City of Atlanta’s licenses page for required permits (food service, professional services, home occupations).
• For county or municipal requirements outside Atlanta’s city limits, visit the local county website.

Common permits include health department approval for restaurants, zoning permits for home-based businesses, and specialty licenses for contractors.

Step 7: Open a Business Bank Account

Keeping your business finances separate from personal accounts is key for liability protection and clear records.

To open an account, you’ll generally need:

• Your EIN
• Certified copy of your Articles of Organization or Incorporation
• Operating agreement or corporate bylaws
• Valid ID

Compare online reviews and fees to find a bank that fits your needs.

Step 8: Draft Internal Agreements

LLCs benefit from an operating agreement. Corporations need bylaws and shareholder agreements.

These documents lay out:

• Ownership percentages
• Voting rights
• Procedures for adding or removing members or shareholders

Even if state law doesn’t require these for single-owner businesses, they help prevent disagreements if your company grows.

Step 9: Maintain Good Standing

After registration:

• File an annual registration with the Secretary of State and pay the $50 fee by April 1 each year.
• Keep your registered agent information current.
• Renew local permits and licenses as required.

Missing these renewals can lead to fines or loss of good standing.

Step 10: Plan for Taxes and Accounting

Once registered, set up a simple accounting system or hire a local accountant. Track income and expenses from day one. Check sales tax rules if you collect tax. Estimate quarterly tax payments if you expect to owe more than $1,000 in federal taxes.

A clear system saves time and money. It also keeps you ready for tax deadlines.