Do I need to obtain a business license from the state?

While there is no license that covers all businesses in Connecticut, many professions and certain types of businesses need to obtain licenses from the state prior to starting business. State agencies generally issue licenses to businesses to cover activities that can impact the health and safety of consumers while state licensing boards certify and license individual professionals in certain occupational fields such as law and health.

CLICK THE Link TO YOUR CITY BELOW TO APPLY FOR A BUSinESS LICENSE

Bridgeport	Bristol	Danbury
Hartford	Meriden	Milford
New Britain	New Haven	Norwalk
Waterbury	West Haven

Do I have to register my business in Connecticut?

All corporations, non-profit organizations, partnerships, and limited liability companies must register with the state in order to do business in Connecticut. Sole proprietors are not required to register. However, all businesses regardless of how they are structured are required to register for state taxes with the Department of Revenue Services. Depending on your business activities, you may need to get special tax permits from the Department of Revenue Service as well, such as a Sales and Use Tax Permit for retail goods. Beyond state requirements, there may be additional registration requirements for businesses at the local level.

Are there local licensing or registration requirements?

Whether your business needs to register or obtain a business license from your local city or county depends on the location where you are operating. Licensing requirements vary by municipality but most cities have business development teams that can help you figure out what licenses or permits your business may need. The state also hosts The Connecticut Licensing Info Center online at www.ct-clic.com that serves as a one-stop licensing website and covers many state and municipal licenses and permits.

What information should I have ready for my license application?

While this depends on the type of license or permit you are applying for, most applications will expect you to have ready:

Name of business

Address and contact information of business

Owner's name and contact information

Type of business (corporation, partnership, LLC, etc.)

Nature and purpose of business

Federal employee identification number (EIN) or social security number

Additional information may be needed about your business activities if you are applying for a specialized permit.

Disclaimer: This site is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial or tax advise. The information on this site should not be relied upon as an official source of information and should be independently verified.