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!

Rhode Island 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: Rhode Island Business Entity Search
• Reserve a Business Name: Fee: $50.
  • File Online 

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

• LLC: File Articles of Organization.

  • Fee: $150.
  • File Online
  • Download Forms

• Corporation: File Articles of Incorporation.

  • Fee: $230.
  • File Online
  • Download Forms 

If operating under a name different from your legal business name, register a Fictitious Business Name (DBA) with the Rhode Island Secretary of State:

• Fee: $50.
• File Online

If your business will hire employees or sell goods, register with the Rhode Island Division of Taxation:

• Sales Tax Permit: Required for businesses selling taxable goods or services.

  • Register Online

• Employer Taxes: Register for withholding and unemployment taxes if you have employees.

  • Employer Registration 

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

• Use Rhode Island’s Business Licensing Portal to identify required licenses:
  • https://www.ri.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 Rhode Island Secretary of State to maintain good standing:
  • Fee: $50.
  • File Online

• Rhode Island Secretary of State – Business Services: https://sos.ri.gov/divisions/business-services
• Rhode Island Division of Taxation: https://tax.ri.gov/
• Rhode Island Small Business Development Center (SBDC): https://web.uri.edu/risbdc/