• Read the State's guide to starting a business

Naming your Business

• Learn about business names, including trade names
• Conduct a name search to determine availability and avoid infringement
• Find out about registering your trade name with your city or town
• Reserve a name for your corporation, LLC, LP, LLP, etc. (Register it when you file the documents creating your business structure.)

Business Structures

• Learn about business structure choices in your state
• Use SBA's Business Structure Wizard
• File the documents creating your business structure

Licenses & Permits

State Licensing

• Read about required licenses and permits
• Update your professional license online
• Determine which environmental permits you may need

Local licensing

• Boston
• Worcester
• Springfield
• Lowell
• Other areas

• Learn about trademarks
• Obtain forms & register your trademark with the state