About Us | Committees | Community | Directory | Relocation

 

 

 

 

Home
   
   
   
   
   
   

 

 

 

  Home >How To Start A Business
 

How To Start A Business In
The City of San Bernardino
Starting a business can be an over whelming experience, but the resources on this page explain the basic steps most business owners will need to take when starting or expanding a business in San Bernardino.
Step 1

Research and Plan Your Business
Use these tools and resources to help you prepare your business plan and become a successful business owner:
Step 2

Get Business Training and Expert Advice 
Take advantage of free training and counseling services in your community. These services include everything from preparing a business plan, to getting financing, to help with expanding and relocating a business.

Call (951) 652-4390 and schedule a FREE appointment with a S.C.O.R.E. business counselor.

Step 3

Select a Location
The location of your business is a major factor in its success or failure. Get advice about choosing a customer-friendly location and complying with zoning laws.

Contact the City of San Bernardino Economic Development Agency located at  201 North "E" Street, Suite 301, San Bernardino, CA.
Phone: (909) 663-1044 
Step 4

Finance Your Business
Unless you have a rich uncle, you probably will need some help to get started in business. Learn about government backed loans, venture capital and grants to help you get started.
Step 5

Select a Business Name
Individuals or entities doing business for profit under a name different from the owner(s) full legal name(s) must file a Fictitious Name Statement with the County Recorder-Clerk's Office where the business will be conducted. Corporations, LLCs, LLPs, and limited partnerships register an assumed name as part of their required business filings with the California Secretary of State.

For help selecting a business name that will attract customers, visit our How to Name Your Business guide.
Step 6

Determine the Legal Structure of Your Business
If your business is a corporation, a non-profit, a limited liability company or a partnership (limited, or limited liability) you must register with the City of San Bernardino.

For help selecting a legal structure for your business, visit our Business Incorporation guide.
Step 7

Get an Employer Identification Number (EIN)
An EIN is also known as a federal tax identification number, and is used to identify a business entity. Employers with employees, business partnerships, and corporations and other types of organizations, must obtain an EIN from the U.S. Internal Revenue Service. The EIN is also known as an Employer Tax ID and Form SS-4:

U.S. Internal Revenue Service
Phone: 1-800-829-4933
Step 8

Register for State Taxes 
Businesses that operate in California are required to register for one or more tax-specific identification numbers, licenses or permits, including income tax withholding, sales and use tax (seller's permit), and unemployment insurance tax. Contact the following agency for more information about business registration and your tax obligations:
Step 9

Obtain Business Licenses and Permits
In order to operate legally, most businesses require a business license or permit issued by the state and your local government. The following resources will help you determine your licensing requirements:
Step 10

Employer Responsibilities
If you are a new employer, our Ten Steps to Hiring Your First Employee will walk you through the legal steps you must take to hire your staff.

Additional resources:

Sources:

 

  

©Copy Right 2010
San Bernardino Area Chamber of Commerce
546 West 6th Street • San Bernardino • CA • 92410
All Rights Reserved