Skip Navigation Links
FAQs
Fees

Business License Information

Skip Navigation Links
Services
What We Do - How It Works
Quiz
FAQs
Fees:
Get It Now
 
@@@@@@@
Starting a(n) sewing alterations Business Licenses & Tax IDs
Hi, I'm   Sole Proprietor License sewing alterations Business Licenses and Registrations To run a sewing alterations business, you will typically need to obtain certain licenses and registrations. Specific requirements may vary depending on your location and the nature of your business. Here are some common licenses and registrations you may need: Bu...,  .
sewing alterations
just looking to find out the Handmade Creations permits I need an licenses I will be an at Home and online business Handmade Creations selling in state through my Instagram and website on Shopify.How Much Does A Resale License Cost? How Do I Buy Wholesale Items.

A: Hi Rose, the resale license costs $39 plus state fees if any. You will need the resale license to buy wholesale items, just obtain a wholesale permit also called a seller's permit or seller's license. When you obtain a wholesale license, it comes with a resale certificate which you can fill out with your business information and the wholesale number ID that is on your wholesale license, and present it to the wholesale vendor so you can buy items and merchandise wholesale. For Handmade Creations business, you need a business license, a seller's permit, and a DBA, LLC , or Corporation because these last 3 items, anyone of these can register your business name and select the structure of your business. So, the fictitious business name "Toxic@S Kreations," must be registered with a dba, LLC , or corporation. On the other hand, if you hire Retail Handmade Creations employees you will need the federal EIN as well as the state EIN.
Business Licensing Information. All sewing businesses need a Business License . If you sell any merchandise, you may want to obtain a resale ID first. Then all businesses are legally required to get a Business License . In addition, if you use a sewing trade name to conduct business. Also, keep in mind that if you decide to hire employees, you will need to apply and get an IRS EIN and register for sewing state employment taxes i.e., get a state identification number. Finally, corporate entities are more prestigious so though you may need to register a DBA Doing Business As you may want to consider becoming a sewing corporation or limited liability company.
 

Business Registrations and Licenses

There are two main categories of requirements you might need to fulfill to operate your sewing alterations business legally: business registrations and licenses. Business Registrations
  • Business Name Registration: This establishes your business name as distinct from your personal name. It's crucial for building trust and professionalism.
  • Example: A local tailor might register their business name as "Stitch Perfect Alterations" to differentiate themselves from John Smith, the individual owner.
  • Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN): This is an IRS-issued number that identifies your business for tax purposes. It's necessary if you plan to hire employees or open a business bank account.
Licenses
  • Business License: Most localities require a general business license to operate. This generates revenue for your local government and allows them to track businesses.
  • Home-Based Business Permit: If you'll be working from home, you might need a specific permit to ensure your operations comply with zoning regulations and safety standards.
Reasons to Register and Obtain Licenses
  • Legality: Operating without proper registrations and licenses can lead to fines and penalties.
  • Credibility: Having the necessary permits demonstrates professionalism and builds trust with potential customers.
  • Tax Compliance: An EIN simplifies tax filing and allows you to open business accounts.
Note: These are just general examples. The specific requirements will vary depending on your location and business structure.

Business Structure: Sole Proprietorship vs. LLC/S Corp

There are several ways to structure your business legally, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here's a brief comparison of two common options:

Sole Proprietorship:

Advantages: Easiest and least expensive to set up. All profits and losses flow directly to you.

Disadvantages: Unlimited liability. Your personal assets are at risk if the business is sued. Limited access to business financing.

LLC (Limited Liability Company):

Advantages: Separates your personal assets from business liability. More flexibility in profit and loss distribution. Easier to obtain business financing.

Disadvantages: More complex to set up and maintain compared to a sole proprietorship. May involve additional fees.

Choosing the Right Structure: Simple operation, low risk: Sole Proprietorship might be sufficient.

Growth potential, asset protection: LLC might offer better benefits.

Alright, ready to stitch your way to success? Let’s make sure your sewing alterations business is all buttoned up with the right licenses and registrations!

Business Name Registration

First things first, if your business will be anything other than your full name (like “Sew Fine Alterations” or “Needle & Thread Masters”), you’ll need to register that snazzy name. This process is called filing a “Doing Business As” (DBA) or “Fictitious Business Name.” It makes your chosen name legally recognized, keeps you in good standing, and helps customers find you easily.

Business Structure: LLC or S Corp?

Deciding between an LLC or S Corp for your sewing business is like choosing the perfect stitch for a seam: - **LLC (Limited Liability Company)**: This is the go-to choice for many small business owners. It’s easy to set up and offers personal liability protection, which means your personal assets (like your home and car) are typically safe if things go awry in the business. Plus, it gives you flexibility in how you're taxed – you can be taxed as a sole proprietor, partnership, or corporation. - **S Corporation**: This might be your style if you plan to scale up or want to save on self-employment taxes. S Corps can offer tax advantages but come with more rules and formalities than LLCs. If you foresee needing to issue stock or have a more complex business structure, this could be the way to go. For example, if you’re starting small with just you or a couple of employees, an LLC might be the perfect fit. But if you dream of expanding into a multi-location alteration empire, an S Corp could save you some tax dollars down the line.

General Business License

Every business needs a general business license. It’s the basic pass that lets you operate legally within your city or county. It shows that your business is recognized and approved to serve customers. Think of it as your business's "I.D. card."

Home Occupation Permit

Planning to run your sewing service from the comfort of your home? Cozy and cost-effective! Just be sure to check if you need a home occupation permit. This permit ensures that your home-based business won’t disturb the neighborhood peace with too much noise, traffic, or fabric scraps flying everywhere.

Sales Tax Permit

If you’ll be selling any tangible products like custom-made clothing, fabric, or even sewing supplies, you might need a sales tax permit. This allows you to collect sales tax from your customers, which you’ll then pass on to the tax authorities. It’s kind of like being a middleman between your customers and the taxman.

Special Permits and Certifications

Depending on where you’re operating, you might need special permits. For example: - **Signage Permit**: If you’re putting up a fabulous sign to attract clients, make sure it complies with local regulations. - **Health and Safety Permit**: If your alterations involve handling delicate or hazardous materials (like special fabrics or chemicals), you might need additional health and safety certifications.

Insurance

While it's not a license, don’t forget about insurance! A good business insurance policy can protect you from unexpected surprises, like damages, theft, or a needle-related mishap. It’s your safety net, making sure a small snag doesn’t turn into a big problem. Ready to get started to handle all your business registration and licensing needs. It’s your one-stop shop to keep your sewing venture running smoothly. Happy stitching!

Business Licenses and Registrations

To run a sewing alterations business, you will typically need to obtain certain licenses and registrations. Specific requirements may vary depending on your location and the nature of your business. Here are some common licenses and registrations you may need:
  • Business License: This is a general license that allows you to operate a business. It is often required regardless of the type of business you are running.
  • Sales Tax Permit: If you plan to sell any tangible goods or services, you may need to obtain a sales tax permit. This allows you to collect and remit sales tax to the appropriate authorities.
  • Occupational License: Some states or local jurisdictions may require you to obtain an occupational license specific to your trade, such as a tailoring or alterations license.
  • Business Structure and Name Registration

    When starting your sewing alterations business, you'll need to choose a business structure and register your business name. Here are a few options to consider:
  • Sole Proprietorship: This is the simplest business structure where you operate the business as an individual. You can use your own name or a fictitious business name (also known as a DBA or "Doing Business As").
  • Limited Liability Company (LLC): An LLC provides personal liability protection, separating your personal assets from your business assets. It offers flexibility in terms of taxation and management structure.
  • S Corporation: An S Corp is a tax election status that allows the business to pass income, losses, deductions, and credits through to shareholders for federal tax purposes, avoiding double taxation.
  • Registering your business name is important to establish your brand identity and prevent others from using the same name. If you choose a name other than your own, you'll need to register it with the appropriate state or local agency.

    Special Permits

    Depending on your location and the specific nature of your sewing alterations business, you may need to obtain special permits. Some examples include:
  • Home Occupation Permit: If you plan to operate your business from your home, you may need to obtain a home occupation permit to ensure compliance with zoning regulations.
  • Fire Department Permit: If your business involves the use of certain equipment or materials that pose a fire risk, you may need to obtain a permit from your local fire department.
  • Environmental Permits: If your business generates waste or uses chemicals in the alteration process, you may need to comply with environmental regulations and obtain necessary permits.
  • It's essential to research the specific requirements in your area and consult with local business resources or professionals to ensure you have all the necessary licenses, registrations, and permits to operate your sewing alterations business legally.

    You can choose to be a(n) sewing alterations :

    • Sole Proprietor,
    • LLC,
    • Corporation or
    • Partnership.
      After you decide and select your business entity, you need licensing.



    Franklin Business Tax Registration ( Business License)
    All businesses including home, online or mobile BUSINESS need a BUSINESS license because they are BUSINESSES.



    A(n) sewing alterations business doing business under an assumed business name in Williamson County i.e. you are a business that uses a DBA doing business as trade name to trade that is other than the full legal (first and last -- full name) name of a sole proprietor or a name other than the LLC or Corporation business name need a(n) assumed business name certificate.   E.g. you venture into a(n) sewing alterations business and you give it a trade name such as "Excellence sewing alterations & Associates". You will need to register an assumed business name certificate.

    In addition note that in TN you may also need a seller's permit if you sell merchandise that is taxable.  (A.K.A state id, wholesale, resale, reseller certificate, about $39 for most states).
    Seller's Permit



    Note: All businesses need a federal tax ID number except sole proprietors that are not employers and are not independent contractors.
    An independent contractor is a self employed business person that receives more than $600 per year from anyone of his or her clients.
    IRS rule: The client must issue a 1099 form to the independent contractor and the independent contractor must have a federal tax ID. However, even sole owners may obtain a federal ID and use it as a business tax ID instead of using their own social security number as a business tax ID number.
    However, all other licenses that apply to sole proprietors as discussed here are requited regardless of getting a federal tax ID number.


    In addition you will need a federal and a state EIN if you will hire employees. I.e., a TN Federal Tax Id Number ($29)  and a(n) TN  State Employer Tax Number  


    Instead of filing a fictitious business name DBA Filing (about $49 plus state and legal newspaper publication fees) in Franklin, Incorporate in TN  or form a(n) TN LLC


    Filing a DBA is not required if you will set up an LLC or form a Corporation. There is a cicrcumstance that you may not need to register a trade name and that is when you use your full name as a business name if you use your full legal name as a trade name.
    Also note that even using your first and last name may not help you avoid filing a DBA if the name has a suffix such as "& sons" etc.



    If you do form an Sole Proprietorship llc or incorporate (about $49 plus state fees for most states) your sewing alterations business instead of just filing a fictitious business name (dba), that insurs that you don't have personal liability for debts and civile liabililty arising from your business dealings and you will not have to record the Franklin business name. Instead of just registering your Williamson County assumed business name (our fee includes assumed business name registration and legal newspaper publication) you can choose to setup a corporation in TN or form an TN LLC (starts @ $49 plus state fee for most states & includes bylaws for the corporation and Limited Liability operating agreement for the LLC that is required to open a business bank account). .
    Sole Proprietor License TN sewing alterations TN Franklin
     



    Copyright