|
|
 |
 |
|
 |
|
Frequently Asked Questions
STARTUPS
Where can I obtain information on licensing and permitting?
The First Stop Shop of the Louisiana Secretary of State's office was designed to answer licensing and permitting questions. They will put you in touch with the proper agencies and resources. You can call the First Stop Shop at 1-866-213-6225 (local callers can use (225) 342-4479).
Advertisement
Where can I obtain a federal tax identification number for my business?
To apply for your federal tax identification number download Form SS-4 from the IRS Web site. If eligible, you can also apply online at www.irs.ustreas.gov/businesses/index.html.
How do I get money to start my business?
Most entrepreneurs seek commercial loans from banks. You should understand the bank's lending guidelines before applying for a loan. Factors most banks will consider include: your business plan, collateral, down payment, credit history and personal net worth, management ability, ability to repay the debt, condition of the economy and/or market area. Help is also available from the Louisiana Economic Development Corp., regional assistance agencies that operate revolving loan funds, and from commercial lenders who participate in special SBA loan programs.
What kind of insurance do I need?
Many insurers offer a package policy for business owners that will cover the basics. Keep in mind that property insurance policies usually exclude coverage for flood damage. Find out from your local government office or your commercial bank whether your business is located in a flood zone. If you need to buy a flood insurance policy, contact your insurance agent or the National Flood Insurance Program at 1-888-CALL-FLOOD. If you have employees, you are also required to have workers' compensation insurance. Contact the Louisiana Department of Labor's Office of Workers' Compensation Administration for forms and procedures.
How do I get a Web address for my company?
Domain names ending with .aero, .biz, .com, .coop, .info, .museum, .name, .net, .org, or .pro can be registered through many different companies (known as "registrars") that compete with one another. A listing of these companies appears in the "Registrar Directory" at www.internic.net. Each registrar sets the price it charges for registering names, and prices vary significantly among different registrars. In addition, some registrars offer discounted or free registration services in connection with other offerings, such as Web hosting.
RELOCATING
What do I need to know about employees, safety and workers' compensation in Louisiana?
The Louisiana Department of Labor is the primary state contact for employer issues. Call LDOL (1-877-LAWORKS or (225) 342-3035) to obtain a copy of its Employer Handbook - Business Owner's Manual. You must register for unemployment insurance tax with LDOL. Contact the Office of Regulatory Services, (225) 342-2944, for details. All employers must also provide workers' compensation insurance for their employees. The employer must submit proof of having the financial means of insuring his/her employees. Direct any questions about workplace safety and workers' comp in Louisiana to the LDOL Office of Workers' Compensation Administration.
What is the current status of communities and infrastructure along the Gulf Coast?
This varies widely by location. In many areas, population, health care access, roads and schools have already returned to pre-Katrina or pre-Rita levels. The following Web sites are disseminating information that can help you assess progress, planning and current conditions:
www.lra.louisiana.gov
www.gnocdc.org
www.louisianaspeaks.org
www.brookings.edu/metro/pubs/200512_katrinaindex.htm
How do I get a contractor's license?
You must contact the State Licensing Board for Contractors, P.O. Box 14419, Baton Rouge, LA 70898-4419, (225) 765-2301.
How do I obtain information on franchising in Louisiana?
Louisiana does not have a franchise law. If your question pertains to franchise tax, you should contact the Department of Revenue and Taxation, P.O. Box 201, Baton Rouge, LA 70821, (225) 219-0102.
How do I find out about corporate laws in Louisiana?
The Louisiana Secretary of State's Office, Corporations Section, has a "Corporation Law" book that includes limited liability company, partnership, trademark and trade name laws. Contact the Corporations Section at P.O. Box 94125, Baton Rouge, LA 70804-9125 or (225) 925-4704. The publication costs $20.
When is the annual report for my corporation due?
Annual reports for domestic business and foreign corporations, and for domestic and foreign limited liability companies and partnerships, must be filed with the Secretary of State's office, Commercial Division, Corporations Section, on or before the anniversary date of incorporation, organization or registration. Forms are mailed to each entity's mailing address thirty days prior to the anniversary date. Failure of corporations and limited liability companies to file annual reports can result in revocation by the office. If an annual report has not been received by the anniversary date, the Secretary of State's office should be contacted at (225) 925-4704 so that a form can be dispatched. The fee for filing annual reports is $25.
Advertisement
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
