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Business Start-up Hampton Roads VA

Updated: Jul 22, 2023

If this is your first time starting a business in the State of Virginia there can be a confusing number of things to collect to be fully operational. Wise Decisions, Solutions and Planning, LLC is Dedicated to helping Small Business effectively streamline this process


To start a business in Virginia, you must follow several steps and complete several requirements. Here's a general guide to help you get started:

  1. Develop a Business Idea: Identify the type of business you want to start and conduct market research to assess its viability. Determine your target audience, competitors, and potential profitability.

  2. Create a Business Plan: A business plan outlines your company's goals, strategies, target market, financial projections, etc. It serves as a roadmap for your business and is often required when seeking financing or partnerships.

  3. Choose a Business Structure: Select a legal structure for your business, such as a sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), or corporation. Each structure has different legal and tax implications, so consult an attorney or accountant to determine the most suitable option for your business.

  4. Register Your Business Name: Choose a unique and distinctive name for your business. Ensure it complies with Virginia's naming requirements and isn't already used by another entity. You can check the availability of your desired business name through the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC) website.

  5. Register with the Virginia State Corporation Commission: Register your business with the Virginia SCC. If you're forming a corporation, limited liability company, or limited partnership, you must file the appropriate formation documents with the SCC. Sole proprietors and general partnerships are not required to register with the SCC but may need to obtain proper licenses and permits.

  6. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN): Apply for an EIN from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This unique nine-digit number is used to identify your business for tax purposes and is necessary if you plan to hire employees or form certain types of business entities.

  7. Fulfill Licensing and Permit Requirements: Depending on the nature of your business, you may need to obtain specific licenses and permits to operate legally in Virginia. Check the Virginia Business One Stop (VBO) website or the local county/city government offices to determine the licenses and permits required for your industry.

  8. Understand Tax Obligations: Familiarize yourself with Virginia's tax requirements. You may need to register for state taxes, including sales and employer withholding taxes. The Virginia Department of Taxation provides resources and guidance on tax obligations.

  9. Set up Business Banking and Accounting: Open a separate business bank account to separate your personal and business finances. Establish a reliable accounting system to track income, expenses, and taxes. Consider consulting an accountant to ensure compliance and accurate financial management.

  10. Obtain Business Insurance: Protect your business by obtaining appropriate insurance coverage. Consider general liability insurance, professional liability insurance, property insurance, and workers' compensation insurance, depending on your business needs.

  11. Hire Employees (if applicable): If you plan to hire employees, familiarize yourself with federal and state labor laws, obtain workers' compensation insurance, and establish a payroll system. Verify employee eligibility to work in the United States by completing Form I-9.

  12. Promote and Market Your Business: Develop a marketing strategy to promote your business and attract customers. Build a professional website, create social media profiles, and explore advertising options to increase your business's visibility.

Remember, this is a general overview, and the specific requirements and procedures for starting a business in Virginia may vary depending on the nature of your business and location. It's advisable to consult with professionals, such as an attorney or accountant, to ensure compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements. Reference Points

Business Licenses for Portsmouth, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Suffolk, Hampton, Virginia Beach, and Newport News


(Note: Depending on the type of Business, Zoning may not permit some businesses to operate from their desired location. In many cases zone must approve your operation before getting your business License)

Additional information The Virginia SCC Charges annual Registration fee https://scc.virginia.gov/pages/Annual-Registration-Fees

Your Business License also has an annual fee which is a minimum is $50.00. The Maximum is dependent on end-year gross receipts State Contracts After you've completed these steps, it is best advised to go Register next with eVA https://eva.virginia.gov/ Create a "supplier account" You will need the documentation from the start-up to proceed. You can create an account with all the required documentation. To look around, it is essential to understand many State, City, and Local agencies will only work with your business if you have the minimum operating requirements.

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