Startup Junction

Starting a Business in Delaware:

State Licensing Requirements: To start a business in Delaware one needs to obtain a business license from Department of Finance a Division of Revenue's Business Licensing agency. There are two ways to get a business license. The first one is through a website called One Stop. Delaware´s One Stop Business Registration and Licensing System allows businesses to obtain a Delaware business license and register online with the following agencies: The Delaware Division of Revenue; The Delaware Division of Unemployment Insurance; The Delaware Office of Workers Compensation. One Stop also links to the Delaware Division of Corporations for easy access to incorporation forms and reserving a legal entity, as well as to the Internal Revenue Service for a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN). Businesses will receive a temporary license upon successful completion of One Stop. If applicable, the Delaware Division of Unemployment Insurance will mail a letter of liability determination and a registration poster. In addition to registering at One Stop, you will need to ensure compliance with local zoning laws, the Division of Professional Regulations, the Departments of Agriculture, Health, Natural Resources & Environmental Control, State and Transportation as necessary. The other way to register is via mail. You can also view the fees online.

City Licensing Requirements: Cities may require local business licenses. However, Delaware State Department of Revenue does not issue City Business Licenses. You should contact your local city revenue office to learn about any required business licenses.

How to form a Delaware Corporation, LLCs or LLP: More than half a million business entities have their legal home in Delaware including more than 50% of all U.S. publicly-traded companies and 60% of the Fortune 500. Businesses choose Delaware because they provide a complete package of incorporation services including modern and flexible corporate laws, their highly-respected Court of Chancery, and a business-friendly State Government. You can form a Deleware corporation by going to Corporations Division in Secretary of State's office.