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!

Before registering, ensure your desired business name is available:

• Check Name Availability: Connecticut Business Entity Search 

Submit the necessary formation documents based on your business structure to the Connecticut Secretary of State:

• LLC: File Certificate of Organization.
  • Fee: $120.
  • File Online 
• Corporation: File Certificate of Incorporation.
  • Fee: $150.
  • File Online 

If operating under a name different from your legal business name, register a Trade Name with your town clerk’s office:

• Contact your local town clerk for details. Find a town clerk here.

If your business will hire employees or sell goods, register with the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services (DRS):

• Sales and Use Tax Permit: Required for businesses selling taxable goods or services.
  • Fee: $100.
  • Register Online 
• Employer Taxes: Register for withholding and unemployment taxes if you have employees.
  • Employer Registration 

Check for state, county, or local licenses your specific business may need:

• Use Connecticut’s Business One Stop for licensing information:
  • https://business.ct.gov/

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 Secretary of State to maintain good standing.

• Fee: $80 for LLCs, $150 for Corporations.
• File Online 

• Connecticut Secretary of State – Business Services
• Connecticut Department of Revenue Services
• Connecticut Small Business Development Center (CTSBDC)