las - You've already gotten some good tips from your fellow Community members, but here is an extra resource: Business.gov's Steps to Start an Online Business This checklist includes federal, state, and local compliance information including taxes, permits, trade, and privacy laws. Oh, and the tech stuff is there too - registering a domain name, selecting a web host, etc. Good luck to you!

Well, i think you need to register your business too. I have seen all the online business have registration in their county. Message Edited by abhi on 12-11-2009 07:45 AM

You may also want to do some research on reseller's licensing if you are selling tangible goods.   If you don't mind my asking, what type of business are you starting? There are a lot of great minds in these forums, and I can almost guarantee that there is someone who is right in your industry, maybe even in your state that would be a great mentor for you.    BTW: Congrats on the new business:)    

Paul,   Great advice.  I tell everyone to ask multiple people in the same agency now after my experiences starting a wine business.  The alcohol beverage control here in California initially told my business partner and I that we did not need a state license(we're a fairly unique case a 3rd party wine club) which was incorrect....as it turns out we need 3 licenses!  The mistake on the part of the state cost us at least 2 wine club shipment cycles as well as the very lucrative 4th quarter gift market for this year....very, very frustrating!

Mark, thanks for sharing that tip! Glad to hear you're set with licenses and permits. :)

Start online business is never easy, choosing what to sell, building up the web, and most difficult is to drive traffic. One attractive approach is to provide online special offers. This will attract customers and bring sales. Good luck to you! Message Edited by ChristineL on 11-20-2009 10:52 AM

Business.gov has a section for each state that covers this information. The one for your state is at http://www.business.gov/states/pennsylvania/start.html   I've typically checked with my local city hall as well to clarify any local requirements.   Your local SBA office can be helpful as well. One tip there is sometimes it's hit or miss as to who you get to help you. If you don't resonate well with the person who initially helps you, try coming back another time.   A friend of mine had that experience when he opened a guitar shop. The first person really didn't seem to know the right information. My friend came back and the new person that helped him was able to give him a ton of help that he needed for researching pricing and estimating potential revenue in his local marketplace.

Congrats on taking the plunge and welcome to the world of Entrepreneurship! Best regards, Darren Crawford http://dominatenashville.com Message Edited by NicoleD on 12-28-2009 08:13 PM