Hi Stephanie, The answer is 'maybe' ... It really depends on where you live. Whether or not you intend to operate this as a hobby or a business is also a factor to consider. I just posted an article about this on the Business Law Adivsor blog: Making Money Online - When Are You a Business? That article provides general information on opening an online store -- essentially, there are some basic registration requirements that are the same for both online businessess and brick-and-mortar businesses. If you want to know requirements in your state and city, you can use the Business.gov search engine or the Licenses and Permits search tool. Message Edited by BobK on 03-13-2009 09:32 AM

I wouldn't bother with it until it start making some money. http://www.joolwe.com silver jewelry Message Edited by joolwe on 06-19-2009 01:04 AM Message Edited by NicoleD on 06-19-2009 11:31 AM

The best thing someone can do when starting anything new in business is to talk with their lawyer.  It may cost you a little bit but then it may  not cost you something more substantial in the future.       Good Luck!

Good article you posted Bob, as i commented there,  if you are serious about a business, get the license or its not a business but a hobby. take the steps in the beginning to start treating it like a business. i see too many people wonder why they arent making money online when they treat this thing like a hobby...they work it when they want to work it.    

You should check in with your city but chances are you do not. http://www.norcalpatent.com/sacramentosolarinstallation.html Sacramento Solar Panel Installation http://www.norcalpatent.com/san-luis-obispo-solar.html San Luis Obispo Solar Panel Installation http://www.norcalpatent.com/fresno-solar-installation.html Fresno Solar Panel Installation Message Edited by NicoleD on 06-19-2009 11:13 AM

It is allway best to be safe then sorry. Iwould just go and get it. www.selljewelrytampa.com Message Edited by NicoleD on 09-22-2009 01:07 PM

Depending on the state you live, it doesn't cost a lot of money (>$100) for a business license. You should just get it now because you're going to have to need it eventually.

You can register a partnership or you can wait and see where it is going and register it a year later when the site picks up and start to make money. You don't want this income to go to your personal tax return (if you want to save on tax). If you want your online store to work out you have to invest lots of time in promoting your web site and register with directories and online communities to get the word out. You can also do an online press release to get into the news.

This a organization call SCORE.org where they can provide you with free business consulting from retired business executive. You can call them and they will find a mentor to help you.     Good Luck!   Lou,Lousyplace.com

I just opened an online shop, and I didn't need any licence.But you neet to be registred as company.