Frequently Asked Questions
I am planning on opening a new business, what do I need to do?
Unfortunately, there is not one place to call to take care of everything that is involved with starting a new business. Depending on the nature of your new business, federal, state, and local licenses and permits may be required. In most areas, there are zoning restrictions that may prevent you from operating a business from a particular location, including your home. Finally, there are state and federal income taxes, sales taxes and withholding taxes to consider. Depending on the size of your business, it may be best to consult with an attorney before getting started.
To find out what is required, contact the town(s) that you plan to operate in to see what their licensing requirements are. If you plan to conduct business within the Greenville City Limits, contact the Privilege License Section at (252) 329-4450 for more information. To find out what state licenses and permits are required, contact the North Carolina License Information Office at (919) 807-2166 or toll free in North Carolina (800) 228-8443.
How do I get a privilege license?
There is no such thing as "a privilege license" that covers every business activity. North Carolina has over 700 privilege license requirements for certain types of businesses. There are also businesses for which there are no state license requirements. Most businesses operating in the City of Greenville are required to obtain a City of Greenville Privilege License in order to do business within the city limits.
To receive an application, call the Privilege License Office at (252) 329-4450 or come to the City of Greenville Collections Division located at 200 West Fifth Street, in the City Hall building on the first floor. A downloadable version of the Privilege License Application is also available.
The North Carolina License Information Office can assist you with information on state licenses and taxes that your business may be need. For more information, call (919) 807-2166 or toll free in North Carolina (800) 228-8443.
How do I get a tax number?
There are several types of tax numbers. If a business is planning to have sales, a Sales & Use Tax number is required. Businesses having employees are required to obtain a Federal Employer Identification number along with a N. C. withholding tax number. The North Carolina License Information Office can provide application forms to businesses for these numbers, call (919) 807-2166 or toll free in North Carolina (800) 228-8443.
How do I register my business name?
The type of business structure determines where a business name (assumed name) should be registered. A Certificate of Assumed Name for sole proprietorships and partnerships must be filed with the Register of Deeds in the county or counties in which businesses plan to operate. Corporations must register their business names with the North Carolina Secretary of State Corporations Division. Your City of Greenville Privilege License should be issued in your businesses Trade or D.B.A. name.
What do I need to do to incorporate my business? Do I need an attorney?
You can incorporate your own business by filing a one-page form called the Articles of Incorporation with the Corporations Division in the Department of the Secretary of State. There is a $100.00 filing fee associated with filing this form. However, there are additional steps involved in completing the corporation, and the Business Corporations Guidelines booklet is available for assistance with paperwork. Anyone who is not an attorney cannot prepare the documentation for your new corporation. There are a number of legal issues involved with establishing a new corporation and you may find the services of an attorney helpful.
How do I check to see if a name I want to use as my corporate name is available?
Name availability can be determined by contacting the North Carolina Secretary of State Corporations Division at 919-733-4201. The Division can be reached by fax at 919-733-1837. You can perform your own corporate name search by selecting the option from North Carolina Secretary of State Website: http://www.secretary.state.nc.us/corporations/Search.aspx
How do I apply for a Federal ID Number?
A federal employer identification number can be applied for by mail. For more information regarding how to file by fax or phone, call 1-800-829-1040 or go to:http://www.irs.gov for more details.
Where can I go for a business loan?
Contacting the bank where you are an account holder is a good place to start. Loan information can be obtained from the Small Business Administration by calling 1-800-827-5722. In addition, the North Carolina Self-Help Credit Union offers loan programs for qualified businesses and can be reached by calling at 1-800-476-7428.
Who can help me with my business plan?
North Carolina has 58 Small Business Centers located within Community Colleges across the State. These Centers provide a variety of services to small businesses, including assistance with the development of business plans. For more information, contact your local community college. In addition, the SBA is an excellent resource for assisting with business plans for new and existing businesses and can be reached at 1-800-827-5722.
If I have a state license, why do I need a city license?
The state license you have is good statewide in North Carolina; however, you may need additional city licenses because you are doing business within city limits. State and city governments are separate entities and may have different licensing requirements. The City of Greenville will, in most cases, require you to get a Privilege License to operate in the city limits.
back to top