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Licenses required to operate a business in the U.S.



If you own a business or are in the process of creating one, you may want to take advantage of the energy that comes with the new year and start your projects covering the very essentials, creating successful marketing strategies and promoting sales through programs that increase customer loyalty.


We know this process is not easy at all and, on top of that, maintaining and promoting a business requires planning, discipline and complying with a few legal requirements in the United States.


In this blog, we will look at some of the regulatory licenses that businesses must have in check to operate in the U.S. without issues.


🎯What licenses do retail stores require in the United States?



Generally, businesses need federal and/or state licenses and permits that vary according to their business activities.


At Universum we want our clients to be on the market for a long time, so our advice is: Don't forget to keep your business under the regulations!


Grab a notepad, and let's take a look at the main licenses:


Business license: This is your business's main license to operate in your state. The process depends on your business' location. You should keep in mind that these licenses are renewed annually and the fees depend on the jurisdiction were your business operates. That is, according to federal law.


The business license proves who the are the business' owners and allows these businesses to conduct sales activities of products and/or services.


What are the benefits of the commercial license?


✅ Protects business owners

✅ Protects the business from others.

✅ Protects against potential lawsuits.



State License: Do you want to know if your business can operate in i'ts location? Then you should be aware of this requirement, which determines whether the business is allowed to run in the state. State laws also regulate that businesses do not disturb residential areas.


Sales Tax Registration: This is the Sales Tax permit, which authorizes the collection of sales tax from customers and must be remitted to the state government. It applies to businesses that sell taxable products or services.


💡Universum Pro Tip: Find information regarding small businesses and laws in the United States here: 🔗➡️ Small business administration, SBA.

Health Permit: This requirement is necessary for businesses that need to implement food handling, pharmaceuticals or medical devices. This permit certifies that the company complies with U.S. public health and safety regulations.


How is this permit obtained? It must be requested from the Health Department of the State in which the business is located. The business will be inspected to verify that it complies with health and safety standards. Keep in mind that local authorities regularly inspect businesses to verify that they comply with the health permit over time. Failure to comply with this permit may result in a fine or closure of the business.


Undoubtedly, having the State-required licences up to date is an essential step to operate without inconveniences, as well as to ensure compliance with the regulations and the correct operation of the business.


If your goal is to start this 2025 with the right foot, we invite you to research the requirements according to your state, so that your business runs "by the book", this will not only avoid problems but will also contribute to the credibility of the business when customers visit.


If you want to learn more and receive tips to make the best out of your business in this new year, do not hesitate to subscribe to our blog!


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