• Read the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama's guide to starting a business

Naming your Business

• Learn about trade names (fictitious business names)
• Register your trade name
• Reserve a corporate name

Business Structures

• Learn about business structures choices in your state
• Use SBA's Business Structure Wizard
• Learn about fee schedules and online registration
• File the documents creating your business structure

Licenses & Permits

State licensing

• Learn about professional licenses that may be needed (.pdf file)
• Determine which environmental permits you may need

Local licensing

• Birmingham
• Mobile
• Huntsville
• Other areas

• Learn about trademarks
• Register your trademark with the state