How do you open a retail shop in the US?

Question

I have a dream of owning my own store, but beyond deciding what I want to sell and how I want it to look, I haven't got a clue!

What do I need to do to open my own retail shop? I already found a space and several wholesalers to buy from, but what do I need to do LEGAL wise?

To imisidro, A for effort man! That was really indepth, and would have been helpful had it been tailored to my location. But kudos! You're very intelligible!

To heatherann, Thanks hun! All I needed was to find out where the information was, and thanks to you, I understand completely!

Answer 1

You need to form a company. Go to your state web-site and click on the Small Business or commerce links. Sometimes your local chamber of commerce can be helpful. Next, if you are going into retail make sure you dont get screwed on your lease. Dont get locked into a five year deal if you are doing this for the first time. Find the landlord that will give you the space w/ yearly options to terminate if you give them 60 days notice. Finally, make sure you have a business plan. An actual pamphlet that states your mission, objectives, strategy, customer base, etc... This will keep you on track and may help to secure you financing if your operation does take off!

Answer 2

The best places to start is get involved with Score to help you get started. It is part of the Small Business Administration (SBA). It is made up of business executive retiree volunteers. They are located across the United States.

Second, become involved with the Small Business Administration. They offer both small business loans and advice. It is also involved with the United States government.

Third, incorporate your business as a LLC or sole proprietorship in your state. You can either do this through a business attorney.

Fourth, check with your state government website in regards to getting a tax id and sales tax id for the business.

Fifth, get a business tax id from the IRS.

Sixth, get a business checking account and a merchant account. A merchant account will allow you to accept credit card payments from the customers. I once read that customers tend to spend more when the business offers the option of paying by credit card.

Seventh, join the Chamber of Commerce in your area. There are many benefits to joining it.

Eighth, get a website and a blog. Internet sales can help bring in customers 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. Besides, it is a great place to promote sales. I recommend getting your own domain because it is better indexed by the search engines.

Ninth, start a public Google Calendar. There is an option to show for your location. It is a great way to promote an upcoming sale or special event.

Tenth, purchase advertising space in the local phone book in the Yellow Pages. It will help attract attention.

Finally, advertise the grand opening in the local paper when you have your grand opening. It will help bring in the customers.

Answer 3

It depends on the regulations for opening a retail store in your city or county. I suggest you check with your county and ask for their requirements for opening a retail store -- some require more than others.

If you are in Los Angeles California and you are opening a clothing store, for example, here are the requirements (simply check with your county also requires the same permits and certifications):

- Burglar Alarm Permit: A permit must be obtained for any businesses requiring a burglar alarm or security system.
- Business License (Business Tax Certificate): Required for all entities doing business within city limits. See "County Unincorporated" for businesses located outside of city limits.
- Fire Department Permit - Fire Protection: All businesses subject to annual inspection of facility.
- Land Use Permit: Zone change, variance,conditional use permit.
- Zoning Approval: Permitted uses, development regulations, design review, sign permit, parking regulations.
- Business Personal Property: Property used in the operation of a business such as machinery, equipment, trade fixtures, etc. is taxable and subject to assessment.
- Fictitious Name Filing (DBA): Required if fictitious name is used.
- Occupational Safety and Health Information: Businesses with employees must prepare an Injury and Illness Prevention Plan.
- Sales & Use Permit (Seller's Permit): All businesses selling or leasing tangible property must obtain a Seller's Permit.

Answer 4

1

Answer 5

Dance-mania

Answer 6

Obtaining a business license.

Answer 7

the key to the door