---
title: A Step-by-Step Guide to Register your E-Commerce Business
description: Discover the step-by-step process to register your e-commerce business, the licenses and permits you need to acquire and where to register your operations
---

[Infographics - D&V Philippines ](https://www.dvphilippines.com/infographics)

# [A Step-by-Step Guide to Register your E-Commerce Business](https://www.dvphilippines.com/infographics/a-step-by-step-guide-to-register-your-e-commerce-business)

 Written by [Ma. Jessica Paula Florita](https://www.dvphilippines.com/infographics/author/ma-jessica-paula-florita) | Feb 16, 2022

As an entity providing services or products to consumers, it is your legal obligation to register your e-commerce to acquire the licit rights to operate and be protected against potential lawsuits. 

# How to register e-commerce business in USA  

## **1. Identify your legal structure **

This is the primary step to registering your e-commerce company. 

The category your business falls under will dictate your legal and financial obligations permanently. Here are the types of e-commerce business structures you should know:

1. **Sole Proprietorship or Partnership** 
2. **Limited Liability Corporation** 
3. **Corporation** 
4. **S Corporation**

All requirements, taxes, and liabilities have their respective benefits and drawbacks so consider consulting a lawyer or a professional when selecting the best option for your business.

## **2. Register by state  **

There are variations in taxation when it comes to state levels, but if you're a sole proprietor or in a general partnership, there's no need to register by state- unless you're filing a DBA to operate under a business name.

Take note that you should register at the state where you formed the business, and you need to qualify or register as a foreign business entity at the state where you plan to offer your products/ services.  

You should also have a unique business name to avoid infringement of other business trademarks. You can check it on the [US Trademark Database](https://www.uspto.gov/trademarks-application-process/search-trademark-database#heading-1).

## **3. Register locally**

On a local level, permits are the main focus. These documents are what legalize your operations within your city and your state.

Do you need a license for e-commerce? Yes. In fact, there are different licenses to obtain before your company is up and running.

1. **Business Operation License** 
2. **Home Occupation Permit** 
3. **Occupational License** 
4. **Seller's Permit** 
5. **Sales Tax License**

## **4. Applying for Employer Identification Number (EIN)**

The EIN or Employer Identification Number is the equivalent of a social security for your e-commerce. The IRS issues this for tax and reporting purposes , and is also required by most financial institutions before opening a business account.

 

When you register an e-commerce business nowadays, the process is evidently more attainable compared to brick-and-mortar companies. In addition, when you do so, it gives a guarantee of full compliance as your operations scale over time. 

Let us help you get your e-commerce entity in the right footing. D&V Philippines offers e-commerce finance and accounting solutions to startups who want to stay on top of their finances. You can grab our copy of our guide [D&V Philippines Finance & Accounting Solutions for E-Commerce Businesses](https://www.dvphilippines.com/ecommerce-accounting-solutions-accounting-whitepaper) to know more about our specialized solutions or [contact us today](https://www.dvphilippines.com/contact-us?hsCtaTracking=1d731f17-46ac-4017-a2bf-75ba6290ad26%7C09b57bc0-04bd-423a-a8ba-76579f8d329e) for a free consultation. 

 

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