A sole proprietorship is a one-person business that, unlike corporations and limited liability companies (LLCs), doesn’t have to register with the state in order to exist. If you are the sole owner of a business, you become a sole proprietor simply by conducting business.
Do I have to register a sole proprietorship in Washington state?
In Washington, you can establish a sole proprietorship without filing any legal documents with the Washington state government. There are four simple steps you should take: Choose a business name. File a trade name.
How do I start a sole proprietorship in Washington state?
Becoming a Sole Proprietor in Washington
- Choose a business name for your sole proprietorship and check for availability.
- File a Business License Application with the Washington Department of Licensing.
- Get an Employer Identification Number from the IRS.
- Report Any New Hires.
- Open a bank account for your business.
Do you have to be a sole proprietor in Washington State?
Washington State sole proprietorship registration is not required for a business to legally exist. It is a requirement for a sole proprietor to register before the business can legally operate in the state.
How to register a business in Washington State?
By having a DBA name, it is possible for sole proprietors and general partnerships to do business using a name other than the owners’ personal name (s). This name will also be searchable in the Department of Revenue’s Business Lookup tool. Click Next to continue. The DBA name entered will default as a trade name to register in Washington State.
Can a sole proprietor use his or her own name?
In Washington, a sole proprietor may use his or her own given name or may use a trade name. If you plan to use an assumed business name or trade name, state law requires that the name be distinguishable from the name of another company currently on record.
What do you call a LLC in Washington State?
LLC owners are called “members.” Creating an LLC requires filing with the Washington Secretary of State. For federal taxes, LLCs are typically treated like sole proprietorships if there is one owner, or like partnerships if there is more than one owner.
