While the specific requirements may vary depending on the nature of your business, there are some important steps that need to be followed when applying for a business license in New Hampshire. These requirements ensure that your business is properly registered and compliant with New Hampshire state regulations.
Step 1. Register Your Business Entity and Trade Name
All businesses operating in New Hampshire must register with the Secretary of State’s office. Additional filing obligations may vary depending on the business structure. For convenience, the Secretary of State’s website provides downloadable forms.
- Register your trade name (DBA) with the Secretary of State’s office. If an individual conducts business under a name other than their own, they must register that trade name with the Secretary of State’s office.
- Register your legal structure. NH QuickStart is an online platform specifically designed for businesses to register with the Corporation Division of the Secretary of State’s office. It is also advisable for interested individuals or entities to directly contact the Secretary of State’s office to obtain up-to-date information and fees relevant to their specific circumstances.
Corporation Division
New Hampshire Department of State
107 North Main Street
Concord, NH 03301-4989
Step 2. Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN)
An EIN is a nine-digit federal tax identification number for your business. If you are a single-member LLC, you’re not required to get an EIN for your business, but it still makes sense to have one. The process is free, and an EIN can protect against identity theft and help you open a business bank account.
The IRS is in charge of enforcing federal tax regulations. As a result, most businesses—especially those with employees—are required to apply for a federal EIN. This unique identifier enables the IRS to monitor your business’s income and payroll tax responsibilities and payments. Furthermore, an EIN can be utilized to identify your business for state and local tax obligations, as well as for various financial transactions.
Step 3. Apply for New Business Tax Licenses and Permits
To ensure compliance with tax regulations, it is important to understand the new business tax licenses and permits required in New Hampshire. Here is a brief overview of what’s needed.
- Register with the New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration. The collection of state taxes in New Hampshire is overseen by the Department of Revenue Administration. Depending on the nature of your business, it may be necessary to obtain a tax operator’s license.
- Other permits and licenses. In addition to city- and county-specific permits, there are licenses for specific industries that may be required.
- Local permits: To inquire about zoning requirements or obtain local permits and licenses, it is recommended to visit your local town clerk’s office or access the city-specific website for detailed information. These resources will offer step-by-step instructions on the necessary permits required for your business to operate in accordance with regulations.
- Operator’s permit: If your business or trade is subject to state or local regulations, it may be necessary to apply for a specific operator’s permit and license such as accounting, child care, chiropractors and restaurants.
- Food service and health licenses: These licenses are administered by the New Hampshire Department of Health & Human Services.
For a comprehensive list of regulated activities and licensed professionals in New Hampshire, along with their respective governing boards and contact details, please reach out to:
New Hampshire Department of Justice
1 Granite Place South
Concord, NH 03301
Step 4. File an Employer Status Report
Under the New Hampshire Unemployment Compensation Law (RSA 282-A), every employing unit is required by law to file an Employer Status Report with NHES to establish its status.
Step 5. File a Tax and Wage Report
In addition, the Tax and Wage Report is a document that must be submitted by employers to the NHES.
- Wage and Tax Report. Regardless of tax liability, the Tax and Wage Report needs to be submitted quarterly to NHES. For further details regarding the Tax and Wage Report, it is recommended to contact NHES directly.
Additionally, it is mandatory to report all new hires to NHES.
Step 6. Obtain Insurance
In the state of New Hampshire, it is mandatory to have workers’ compensation insurance. In addition, you may also need to obtain other types of insurance.
- Workers’ compensation insurance. Under RSA 281-A, employers are obligated to provide no-fault workers’ compensation insurance coverage for their employees. This coverage is designed to protect employees in the event of accidental injury, death or occupational disease that occurs within the scope of their employment.
- Other insurance. Depending on the nature of your business you may require additional insurance such as general, property, professional, business interruption and product insurance. It may be a good idea to consult with an insurance broker to understand your insurance options and obtain quotes from different agencies.
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