Am I ready to start my own business?

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers an assessment tool to help you understand if you are ready to start a business.  The assessment is a series of questions which helps you to evaluate your skills, and preparedness to open a business.  The assessment can be accessed by going to WWW.SBA.GOV

What should I do first?

Your first decision as a business owner is to determine the legal structure of your business.  Your choice determines what kind of taxes the business must pay, who’s liable and what forms are necessary.  There are four main choices: 1) Sole Proprietorship, 2) Partnership 3) Corporation 4) Limited Liability Company.  Contact the Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations, Post Office Box 6327, Tallahassee, Florida 32314, WWW.SUNBIZ.ORG

How do I start my own business?

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers various assistance at different levels to anyone interested in starting a business.  Information pertaining to: planning, opening, managing, and even closing your business can be found on their website which is WWW.SBA.GOV.  Business advice and ideas are also available on through SBA from the National Advisory Council. 

What do I need to do to get organized for my business?

It is important to become organized when starting a business to ensure all essential regulatory requirements are addressed, and for you to be a success.  Start by creating a list of the essential items which may be required to be completed before you can open the doors to your business.  This list should address; taxes, business plan, legal documentation, zoning, licenses, insurance, and fees.  You should research each area with local regulators or business professionals such as accountants, attorneys, insurance agents, and City of Plantation staff.  The City’s Economic Development Division can offer guidance to assist you with reaching the correct regulatory or professional agency and they can be reached by calling 954-585-2373.

What is a business plan?

A business plan describes your business, including the purpose, mission of your business, long and short term goals, and annual activities to be performed to operate your business.  It should also include a balance sheet, income statement and cash flow analysis.  Preparing a business plan is often necessary and helpful when acquiring loan or financial assistance.

What legal issues do I need to consider before starting my business?

Depending upon the type of business you are planning to establish various legal issues may need to be addressed such as patents, copyrights, and licenses.  General guidance can be obtained through WWW.SBA.GOV Legal Issues, or by contacting an attorney.

Do I need an Employer ID Number?

Yes, employer ID numbers are necessary.  The Employer ID Number is the federal tax identification number which is issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).  Information can be provided on WWW.IRS.GOV

Will I have to pay other taxes?

If your business will involve taxable transactions, you must register as a sales and use tax dealer before you begin conducting business.  Form DR-1 must be completed.  You are responsible for collecting sales tax at the time of each sale and remitting the tax each month to the Department of Revenue.  Contact the Florida Department of Revenue at 1-800-352-3671, or WWW.MYFLORIDA.COM/DOR

How do I determine a location for my business?

In the City of Plantation all businesses must meet zoning district requirements.  Zoning districts identify various uses for a property.  Generally, zoning districts are broken down into numerous categories, such as residential, commercial, industrial, and more.  Each category has specific criteria as to how properties can be developed within that district.  To ensure the business location you selected is properly zoned, contact the Planning, Zoning and Economic Development Department located at 401 Northwest 70th Terrace, or call 954-797-2225 for guidance.

Do I need a business license?

Yes. All businesses in the City of Plantation are required to have a business license from the City and Broward County.  To obtain a City’s business license visit the City of Plantation City Clerk’s Office, City Hall, 400 Northwest 73rd Avenue or call 954-797-2239 for assistance.   Broward County business license can be obtained from the Government Center Annex, located at 115 South Andrews Avenue, Room A-100, Fort Lauderdale, or call 954-831-4000.

Will I need building permits?