REQUIREMENTS FOR DOING BUSINESS IN ARKANSAS

 

LOCAL REQUIREMENTS

 

Zoning Approval & Building & Sign Permits

Before applying for a business license, first verify that the type of business & its physical location complies with local zoning regulations.

  • Zoning laws vary significantly throughout the state.

  • Zoning approval is a one-time occurrence.

  • Zoning offices can supply business license applications.

  • If the proposed business site is not in compliance, you must apply for a permit to change the current zoning.

  • Home-based businesses must apply for a home occupation permit. Certain limitations apply.

  • Signage for your business requires a sign permit.

  • If you plan to build a new building or to alter an existing building, apply for a building permit.

Contact: Columbia County Clerk, (870) 235-3774; Lafayette County Clerk, (870) 921-4633; Miller County Clerk, (870) 774-1501; or Union County Clerk, (870) 864- 1910.

Business License (also known as privilege license)

After verifying zoning compliance, the next step is to apply for a business license. Some cities and counties do not issue business licenses. Also, depending on the type of business, there may be additional licenses and fees required.

 

  • Apply for a business license in the city in which the business is physically located. If located outside of the city limits, contact the county collector or clerk's office.
  • If the business has a physical location in other cities, inquire about a business license for these cities.
  • Businesses located outside the city limits may still need a business license to operate within the city limits.

Determining the Legal Form of A Business

Be sure to research and discuss the specific advantages and disadvantages of each form of ownership with a qualified accountant or attorney before you finalize your decision. Forms of ownership include sole proprietor, C Corporation, S Corporation, General Partnership, Limited Partnership, Limited Liability Partnership, and Limited Liability Company. For a brief summary of the most common types of businesses go to www.sosweb.state.ar.us/corp_ucc_corp-info-entity.html

 

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Certificate for DBA (Doing Business As) Company

Sole proprietors and general partnerships operating their business under a fictitious or assumed name must apply for a DBA certificate with the county in which the business is physically located.

  • DBA application fees vary and generally, are a one-time occurrence.
  • A business name change, ownership change or business closure, will require filing an amendment at the clerk’s office.
  • The county clerk's office will conduct a complimentary name search for the business.
  • Inquire about a DBA application if a business is incorporated, but operating under another business name.
  • A DBA does not protect or reserve a business name.

Contact: Columbia County Clerk, (870) 235-3774; Lafayette County Clerk, (870)921-4633; Miller County Clerk, (870)774-1501; or Union County Clerk, (870)864-1910.

 

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STATE REQUIREMENTS

 

Incorporating Your Business

There is a one-time filing fee to incorporate a business. Thereafter, a corporation will pay an annual franchise fee – a minimum of $50. Incorporating a business offers individuals a safeguard in protecting personal assets from liability. Incorporating ensures a business name will not be used by other incorporated businesses within the state. Contact: Secretary of State's Office, 501 Woodlane (Aegon Building across from the State Capitol), Little Rock, AR 72201, (501) 682-3409, www.sosweb.state.ar.us

 

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Licenses and Permits

Many permits and licenses are issued at the county or city level. For contact information on your area go to www.arkansas.gov/government_local_search.php

 

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State Labor Laws

State labor laws such as Worker’s Comp apply to those employing 4 or more people and gross sales under $500,000. Items such as wages, overtime, etc., are governed by Federal labor laws. Contact: Arkansas Department of Labor's in Little Rock, (501) 682-4505, www.state.ar.us/labor

 

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FEDERAL REQUIREMENTS

 

Employer Identification (EIN) Number

Employer Identification Numbers, also known as Federal Employer Identification (EIN) Numbers, are used to report withholding taxes and should be applied for 6-8 weeks prior to hiring. EINs are issued by the IRS. You may apply for an EIN online at

https://sa2.www4.irs.gov/sa_vign/newFormSS4.do

 

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Federal Labor Laws

Contact the U.S. Department of Labor for questions about minimum wage, overtime wages, Occupational Safety & health Administration, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Family Medical Leave Act, etc. http://www.dol.gov/compliance/

Contact Us

The Coordinating and Development Corp.
5210 Hollywood Avenue
P. O. Box 37005-7005
Shreveport, LA 71133-7005
Phone: (318) 632-2022
Fax/TDD: (318) 632-2099
E-mail: info@cdconline.org

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