Business requirements
SBA’s Business Guide lists the requirements needed to start, grow, and expand your business. Since laws and taxes vary by state, here’s what you need to do before starting your business in our area.
Business name and registration
Register your business name with the county clerk where your business is located. If you are a corporation, you will also need to register with the Secretary of State.
Business licensing and zoning
Licenses are typically administered by a variety of state and local departments. It is important to consider zoning regulations when choosing a site for your business. Contact the local business license office where you plan to locate your business. You may not be permitted to conduct business out of your home or engage in industrial activity in a retail district.
Taxes
New York Taxpayer Assistance Centers
130 S. Elmwood Ave.
Buffalo, NY 14202
Phone: 716-961-5100
New York State Department of Taxation and Finance
W.A. Harriman State Office Building Campus
Albany, NY 12207
Phone: 518-457-5181
Health and safety
New York State Department of Labor
250 Schermerhorn St., First Floor
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Phone: 718-780-9200
OSHA Offices in New York
130 S. Elmwood Ave., Suite 500
Buffalo, NY 14202
Phone: 716-551-3053
State small business profiles
Need information on the local business landscape? SBA's Office of Advocacy has the latest demographic and statistics on local small business economic activity.
Local assistance
Need help? Get free business counseling in your area.SBA lending in our area
-
Lending programs
Learn more about SBA's 7(a) loans, 504 loans, and microloans that you can use for your business. -
Lender Match
Describe your business needs and get matched with an SBA-backed lender in your area. -
Lending activity reports
View 7(a) and 504 lending activity reports from our district.
Additional local resources
Download our guide to SBA resources
Learn about the opportunities available for small businesses nationwide.