Iowa Business License

The state of Iowa supports all the startups and made the process of obtaining business licenses very easy. Not all businesses need to be licensed to operate in Iowa. Learn how to use the Iowa business license lookup to find out how to get a business license in Iowa. Moreover, learn how to start a business without a business license Iowa.

How do I get a business license in Iowa?

The state of Iowa supports the startups and the Iowa Economic Development Authority provides assistance to small businesses. You can find information on how to find financing. And, you can learn how to apply for your Iowa Business license.

Moreover, the Iowa Economic Development Authority provides information about what business types should obtain a license.

Business license types

So, Iowa doesn’t have a general business license issued by the state. On the other hand, many types of business may need to get one or more licenses or permits. Many of these licenses and permits are considered to be regulatory. And, they mostly relate to spheres like environment, health and safety, or building and construction. Different state agencies issue different types of licenses and permits.

Moreover, each city or county may have different requirements for the Iowa business license. For example, to start a business in Des Moines you should visit the city government website or contact your local authorities.

Professional Licensing for your Business

There are some businesses that provide such solutions and services for which you should obtain a license. Likewise, the Iowa Professional Licensing Bureau (PLB) oversees the regulatory boards and licensing for many professions like accountants, real estate brokers, contractors etc. For the other professional licenses you should apply to the other state agencies.

For example, for health related professions you should apply to the Iowa Department of Public Health’s Bureau of Professional Licensure.

Does Iowa require a business license?

The state of Iowa doesn’t require and doesn’t issue a general business license. However, depending on your provided services you may need to obtain a professional license. In each city or county firstly you should check with your local authorities.

Beyond obtaining required licenses or permits, some legal forms of business, such as corporations and limited liability companies, are required to file records with the state. More specifically, corporations, LLCs, and certain other types of businesses must file organizational documents with the Iowa Secretary of State.

You can use Iowa business license lookup in the licenselookup.org website to learn what you need to start a business. Moreover, find which agencies you need to apply to.

How much does it cost to set up an LLC in Iowa?

To set up an LLC in Iowa you should pass the following steps:

• Firstly, choose a name for your LLC and fill the application for reservation of name with the Secretary of State. You should pay $10.
• Secondly, appoint a Registered Agent who will agree to accept legal papers on the LLC’s behalf if needed.
• Thirdly, file certificate of organization, which should include the name of the LLC, address and the registered agent’s address. And, payment is $50.
• Then, obtain an EIN through the IRS website. There is no payment needed for that.

After that, file a biennial report with the Secretary of State. If you fill the report online you will pay $30, if you are going to mail it $45.

So, you should pay from $90 to $105 to set up an LLC.