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Start a Business

Starting a Business in Oregon can be a simple or complicated task. There are lots of details to take into account, and it’s worth it to spend time researching and planning your business before committing to anything. Find the Start a Business Guide and other business guides on the Secretary of State's Business Publication page.

Quick Start Guide

In general, there are 6 steps involved in starting a business:

  1. Planning – Choose your name and structure, and write a business plan.

  2. Registering – Register your business name with the Secretary of State.

  3. Get your Tax Numbers (if needed) – Not all businesses need state or federal tax ID numbers.

  4. Get Insurance – Insurance isn’t always required, but is always a great idea.

  5. Get a Business License (if needed) – Business licenses are based on the work you do and the location you’ll be doing it.

  6. Know your employer obligations (if you have employees) – Most new businesses don’t have employees, so this step might come later in the life of your business.

Ready to Get Started? 

Get help walking through the process in the Business Xpress Startup Toolkit >

Start a Business Video Series

Step-by-step guide for starting a business.

Watch videos >

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