Decide on the legal structure of your business. See our business tax structure page. Common options include:

• Sole Proprietorship
• Partnership
• Limited Liability Company (LLC)
• C-Corporation (C-Corp)
• S-Corporation (S-Corp)
• Nonprofit

For more information, see our Tax Structure Guide!

Hawaii does not require you to reserve a business name before registration, but it’s recommended to ensure your desired name is available:

• Check Name Availability: Hawaii Business Entity Search
• Reserve a Business Name: Fee: $10.
  • File Online 

Submit the necessary formation documents based on your business structure to the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA):

• LLC: File Articles of Organization.

  • Fee: $50 (plus $1 state archive fee).
  • File Online 
  • Download Forms 

• Corporation: File Articles of Incorporation.

  • Fee: $50 (plus $1 state archive fee).
  • File Online 
  • Download Forms 

If operating under a name different from your legal business name, register a Trade Name (DBA) with the Hawaii DCCA:

• Fee: $50 (plus $1 state archive fee).
• File Online

If your business will hire employees or sell goods, register with the Hawaii Department of Taxation:

• General Excise Tax (GET) License: Required for businesses selling goods or services.
  • Fee: $20.
  • Register Online 

Certain businesses may require additional permits or licenses depending on their industry or location:

• Use Hawaii’s Professional and Vocational Licensing Search for details:
  • https://cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/

Separate your personal and business finances by opening a business bank account using:

• Your EIN (Employer Identification Number).
• Formation documents or operating agreement.

Annual Reports: LLCs and Corporations must file an Annual Report with the Hawaii DCCA:

• Fee: $12.50 (online), $15 (paper).
• File Online

• Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA): Visit here
• Hawaii Department of Taxation: Visit here
• Hawaii Small Business Development Center (SBDC): Visit here