SourceLink Tulsa Blog

Need to know the basics to making your business official? Hit the ground running with these six steps.

1. Determine your business structure. You can see the different business types by visiting the Business Structure Matrix.
2. Determine if you need a Federal Employer Identification Number. For more information click here.
3. Get a Federal Employer Identification Number from the IRS at www.irs.gov or 800-829-4933.
4. Register your business with the appropriate state agencies. For assistance determining which applications, permits, licenses, or registrations are required, use the Business Registration & Licensing System.
5. For information direct from the primary agencies of registration you may also want to visit:
   1. The Secretary of State - This includes checking name availability and reserving your trade name.
   2. The Oklahoma Tax Commission - Download this Oklahoma Business Registration Packet.
   3. Oklahoma Employment Security Commission - This applies only if you have employees.
6. Inform yourself! Read and take advantage of all the additional resources available to you on this site and others for how to successfully start and run a business. 

Want to add to the six steps of startup? Let us know your thoughts!