How to Legitimize a Business in the Lowcountry

Step 1: Develop a Business Plan

1. Create a Business Plan

2. Decide business type

Step 2: Register with SC’s Secretary of State

1. Request & fill out documents

2. Apply for a trademark or service mark

   1. Trademark maintenance due dates

   2. Do you need a trademark? More steps & information

Step 3: Obtain a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) from the IRS

• Apply online

• Apply by mail

• More information

Step 4: Meet Local Requirements

• Counties with a Business License Tax & Business License Requirement

  • Beaufort

  • Charleston

  • Dorchester

  • Jasper

  • Orangeburg

• For more information on specific requirements, contact your county

  • Some cities & municipalities have different requirements

Employee Legal Status

• Must be reported within 3 days through E-Verify

• Apply for unemployment insurance

• Register with South Carolina New Hire Reporting

  • Employees must be reported within 20 days of hire

• Acquire Required Posters

  • What posters do I specifically need for my business?

• Get Compensation Insurance

  • Required for businesses with 4 or more full or part-time employees

  • Check out local insurance companies through Lowcountry Local First

• Sign Up for MyDorway to apply for a retail sales tax license

Step 5: Personal Business Property Tax

• Pay personal business property taxes

  • Due January 15th

• Find more information 

Step 6 (Recommended): 

• Join Lowcountry Local First’s Family of Local Businesses!

How to Open a Business in the Lowcountry