Getting Started in Providence

Starting a business is a complex endeavor. The following guide explains the basic regulatory steps involved in starting a business in Providence.

Business Registration

How you register your business depends on the legal structure you have chosen:

• Sole Proprietors and General Partnerships: You must register your business name with the City Clerk (located in City Hall at 25 Dorrance Street). There is an $11.50, one-time only fee. Download the Certificate of Assumed Business Name
• Domestic & Foreign Corporations, Non-Profit Corporations, Limited Partnerships, Limited Liability Companies, Limited Liability Partnerships and Producers' and Consumers Cooperative: You must file directly with the Rhode Island Secretary of State Corporations Division. Before you file, do a name availability search using their corporate database to make sure the business name you want is available.

Licenses and Permits

Regardless of how you structure your business, you may need certain licenses and permits to operate. The following City and State offices can help you determine what you need before you open your doors:

• Board of Licenses
  Certain types of businesses require a special license to operate in the City, including food and beverage establishments, retail businesses and entertainment businesses, among others. 401.421.7740
• Department of Inspection and Standards
  Information on zoning requirements and building permits. 401.421-7740
• Fire Department
  Information on fire code regulations and permits 401.243.6050
• Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training-Licenses Occupations
  Listing of occupations that require a state license and information on the applicable licensing agencies. 401.462.8740
• Rhode Island Division of Taxation
  Information and on-line application for a permit to Make Sales at Retail. 401.574.8700

Taxes

Check out the following sites for more information on local, state and federal taxes that may apply to your business.

• City of Providence Tax Assessor
  Information on real estate and tangible taxes 401.421.5900
• Rhode Island Division of Taxation
  Businesses must file with the State of Rhode Island. The Division of Taxation provides information on employment taxes, and sales taxes, including on-line application forms. 401.574.8700
• U.S. Internal Revenue Service
  As an employer, you must meet US Internal Revenue Code requirements. A federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) is used to identify a business entity. You may apply online at www.irs.gov. Before applying, check with the Rhode Island Secretary of State to determine if you also need a state number or charter.

Employer Requirements

As an employer, you must meet various state and federal requirements. The following agencies can assist you in understanding your obligations.

• Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training
  Information on employer requirements specific to the State of Rhode Island, including workers compensation insurance, unemployment insurance/benefits, and workplace safety. 401.462.8000
• U.S Department of Labor
  Information on federal minimum wage, overtime, record-keeping and child labor standards.
• Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA)
  The Providence Office will provide on-site consultation to help you comply with workplace safety requirements. 401.528.4663