Step 1: Decide on a Business Structure

There are 3 basic options: a DBA, a Corporation or an LLC. Click here to learn more about business entities.

• A DBA or “Doing Business As” (also known as a “Fictitious Business Name” or FBN) is not really a separate structure, but just a different name that an individual or partners use as their business name.
• A Corporation is a separate entity (provides liability protection to the owners) that has a structure that includes shareholders, directors and officers. More complex than a DBA but the entity of choice for large companies and startups that intend to raise funding. Some professions are required to choose what is known as a “Professional Corporation” or PC (doctors, lawyers, architects, etc.)
• An LLC or “Limited Liability Company” is a newer type of business that is both a separate entity but provides very easy management (doesn’t require directors or officers) and taxation. Has largely replaced the DBA and Corporation in popularity recently as it provides liability protection but with much less complexity (and taxation) than a Corporation.

Step 2: Pick a Business Name

Picking a business name is easier said than done – many legal and business problems can arise from picking the wrong name (you can always change it later but the less times you have to do that, the better). In Step 3 we’ll show you how to search for the name in Nevada, but we highly recommend you do the following before searching Nevada state databases:

• Make sure you’ve covered the basics: unique, easy to understand/pronounce (practice saying it out loud: “Thanks for calling XYZ”) and can survive over time (“DVD World” is not timely). Here are some of our tips on business identity including logo and trademarks.
• Search the web for your proposed name. Search Google, Bing and DuckDuckGo as a “first sweep” for any potential conflicts, especially in your state or local jurisdiction. NOTE: If you intend to operate nationally or even internationally it will be even more important that your name be unique. This should cover many cases where a company name is being used but not officially trademarked (see next tip).
• Do a trademark search with the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). This will be a very good indicator if you’re name will have any conflicts. There’s an art to trademark searches (trademark specialists will charge you handsomely to do a thorough search) but in our experience if you can use google at a fairly advanced level you can reasonably clear a name yourself. Tip: search misspellings, plurals, variations of spelling, sound-alikes and other versions of your chosen name to be sure it’s not already registered.
• Make sure your company name choice is available by searching Nevada’s Department of State Business Entity Search. NOTE: Make sure to search variations of spelling, plurals and misspellings as the state may reject a name that is too similar (then you have to start all over again, wasting valuable time).

Step 4: Obtain your Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN or “EIN”)

Your EIN is like your Social Security Number for your company. It’s required for Corporations and LLC’s and optional for DBA’s (if you don’t have any employees, then it’s required). However, if you are a DBA and don’t obtain an EIN you will be forced to use your Social Security Number on many documents so it’s typically recommended you obtain the EIN to prevent identity theft.

To obtain an EIN you can apply online with the IRS or via IRS Form SS-4.

You can read more about corporate tax laws in Nevada on the Nevada Department of Revenue site.

NOTE: We can obtain your EIN for you if you we form your company.

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Step 5: Open Company Accounts: Bank and Credit Cards

To keep business and personal expenses separate, you should open a separate account for your business. In addition, getting business credit cards is how you begin to build a company credit profile (corporation or LLC required) and can later qualify for larger loans and lines of credit. To open the account simply call your chosen bank and inquire on the steps to open a business bank account. Typically you’ll need a) your filed paperwork b) your EIN c) a company resolution authorizing your company to open the account (signed by the owners, members, officers or directors, etc.).

TIP: Our business formation service includes a free banking resolution for your use.

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Step 6: Obtain Business Licenses and Permits

Now that you’ve registered your business name you need to obtain a business license for your company – this authorizes your company to do business in your city or county. Typically this also involves registering for state taxes and permits (the city may require them as part of the business licensing process).

The State of Nevada uses Silverflume, a one-stop portal where you can register your business with all the necessary divisions and obtain the necessary documents.

Tip: We work with a company that can obtain and prepare business licenses and permits for you. Click here to learn more.

Step 7: Annual and Ongoing Requirements

All businesses operating out of Nevada must obtain a state business license from the Secretary of State, which must be renewed annually. The fee for licensing and renewal is $200 for DBAs and LLCs, and $500 for Corporations.

DBA: In most counties, your DBA should be valid for 5 years (unless you change your name or other information listed on the FBN), at which point it will require renewal. Check with your county clerk for more information.

LLC: Nevada LLCs are required to file an annual report listing their officers, directors, and registered agent. This report, known as an ‘annual list,’ is due by the end of the first month after the LLC’s Articles of Organization were filed.  The filing fee is $350. Nevada does not require LLCs to pay an annual tax.

Corporation: All businesses incorporated in Nevada must also file an annual report, listing their officers, directors, and registered agent – the filing fee is $650.

Franchise Taxes: Nevada does not require its businesses to pay a franchise tax.

Important Nevada Contacts:

Nevada Secretary of State

Nevada State Capitol Building
101 North Carson Street, Suite 3
Carson City, NV 89701
775-684-570

Nevada Department of Taxation

1550 College Parkway, Suite 115
Carson City, NV 89706
(775) 684-2000