When to get tax id, license, etc?

[capturedbybrooke]

At what point in starting a business do you have to get a tax id, business license, etc?

[GadgetRick]

It all depends. It makes it a bit easier for some things but it's not required to be a business. It's really not all that expensive and you'll be able to open a bank account in your business name.

[theosus]

Originally Posted by GadgetRick

It all depends. It makes it a bit easier for some things but it's not required to be a business. It's really not all that expensive and you'll be able to open a bank account in your business name.

I would be careful about just getting a license to get one. A friend of mine had a wife that made and sold soaps/candles/etc. at craft shows. He got a business license, but because she didn't have a seperate building (she worked from home), the county sent them a $1200 tax bill at the end of the year.
You can still pay taxes on your photo income without it being a business.
For example - a cop friend of mine works security off duty. He makes a few thousand dollars a year doing side work. He pays his taxes to the IRS on the income, and can even claim expenses like gas/flashlight batteries, etc., but doesnt need a business license, so he doesnt have one.
I would check with the chamber of commerce for the county you live in. It might stave off a surprise.

[nokiN]

Originally Posted by capturedbybrooke

At what point in starting a business do you have to get a tax id, business license, etc?

Generally speaking, before you start accepting payment for your goods or services.

Business licensing/registration laws vary from town to town.

Where I live my business must be registered, but I don't need a license. Plus, running a business out of your home is not allowed here.

Your best bet is to check with your city government either in person or online. See if there is a City Clerks office.

Your state government will also have some requirements and again you can likely find that info online at the states Dept. of Revenue.