Do I need a business license to operate a small business in Cedar Rapids, IA?
Yes. You will likely need both a permit from the Stte of Iowa and the City of Cedar Rapids. For example if you will have employees, You will need to obtain a business license, also called an Iowa Self Tax Permit, from the State of Iowa.
Are there licenses or permits that I will need to get through the city to open a small business in Cedar Rapids?
Some businesses require additional permits to operate in Cedar Rapids. Some examples of these type of businesses are:
- Businesses that will sell alcohol or cigarettes
- Bowling Alleys
- Pawnshops
- Street Vendors
- Businesses that provide taxi or limousine services
For more information on the businesses listed above and for a complete list of businesses that require additional permits and licenses, go here.
What steps do I take to obtain a business license from the State of Iowa?
Small businesses may need to register their business with the State of Iowa by filling out the Iowa Self Tax Permit. You can use this form to apply for: sales tax, use tax, automobile rental tax, withholding tax, corporations and/or partnerships. You may fill out this form online or print the form out, complete it by hand and mail it to Registration Services, Iowa Department of Revenue, P.O. Box 10465, Des Moines, IA 50306-0465. There is no fee associated with this permit unless you plan to sell hazardous materials.
To fill out these forms, you will need to know basic information about you business such as its name, location, the FEIN number (to find out if you need a FEIN number, go here ) or a Social Security Number and the type of ownership. You will also need to know information about the nature of your business, including number of employees, tax collection details and the permitting requirements for your business. You will also need to know the name and social security number of each owner. For more information about the tax status of your business, you can go here. If you have any questions about this form, you can call Taxpayer Services at 515-281-3114 or 800-367-3388.
It is important to note that your business may be exempt from taxes or may be eligible for additional taxes. For more information about these options, go to the Starting a Business section of the Iowa Department of Revenue website.
Are there additional things I must do at the state level to open a small business in Cedar Rapids, IA?
If you will have employees, you have additional requirements. For more information on these additional requirements, go here.
Certain businesses, such as corporations and Limited Liability Partnerships, must register with the Secretary of State. For more information on this requirement, go here.
Your business may also require a Certificate of Authority if it is regulated by anything other than Iowa Law. To find out if you must obtain a Certificate of Authority for your business, go here.
There are many types of businesses that require additional licenses and permits from the State of Iowa before opening to the public. Some common examples include:
- Child and Day Care Services
- Business that involve automobiles
- Restaurants
- Retail stores
For more information about the businesses listed above and for a full list of permits and licenses that your business may need, go here. If you have questions about environmental permitting, you can go here for more information.
Where can I go if I have more questions about starting a small business in Cedar Rapids, IA?
If you have questions, there are many places you can go for help:
- Resources for Small Businesses, Businesses and Starting a New Business sections of the Iowa Department of Revenue’s website.
- You can contact the Iowa Department of Economic Development by calling 1-800-245-4692 or 515-725-3107
- Iowa Small Business Assistance Gateway
- You can also contact the City Clerk’s Office by calling 319-286-5060 or by going to the Temporary City Hall located at 3851 River Ridge Drive NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402.
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