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Starting a Business in Brisbane

In order to start a business in Brisbane, there are several steps you need to take.  They are summarized below in five steps, excerpted from Starting a Business in San Mateo County, a handy guide with agency names, phone numbers, addresses and websites.  Please note, certain URLs in the guide may no longer be active, but the ones listed below are.

STEP ONE - START WITH A BUSINESS PLAN
The U.S. Small Business Administration has a tutorial on how to create a business plan for all aspects of your business such as market analysis, financing, sales, marketing, advertising, and choosing a location. Visit www.sba.gov/smallbusinessplanner for more information.

STEP TWO - OBTAIN A BUSINESS LICENSE FROM THE CITY WHERE YOU WILL BE DOING BUSINESS
Any person engaging in business in the City of Brisbane must apply and receive a business license from the City and pay the business license fee.

STEP THREE - CHOOSE A BUSINESS STRUCTURE
Select a business entity type. See www.sos.ca.gov/business for a brief overview of the principal types of legal business structures available in California. Consult with an attorney and an accountant before determining your type of business entity.

STEP FOUR - FILE FOR A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME and GET A BUSINESS LICENSE FROM THE CITY OF BRISBANE
All businesses conducting business within the City of Brisbane need to have a current business license on file with the City. 

Filing a Fictitious Business Name (FBN) Statement creates an accurate, easy-to-find record of who is responsible for the conduct of the business. You may obtain forms and assistance from the County Clerk's Office (555 County Center, 1st floor, Redwood City). Forms are also available online at here. The Clerk’s staff has information about requirements and can assist applicants with these steps.

STEP FIVE - OBTAIN TAX AND EMPLOYER IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS
The IRS, the State Board of Equalization, the Franchise Tax Board and the Employment Development Department agencies collect state and federal payroll taxes, state sales taxes and Corporate income taxes. Filing requirements are different for each agency.  For more information, go to http://www.sos.ca.gov/business/be/tax-information.htm.