Register your business today

When opening a new business in Connecticut, it’s important you register your business with the State. This provides Connecticut with an accurate public record of your business.

[Note: you will need to log into / sign up for a ct.gov account]

The good news is you can complete the entire process online here at Business One Stop.

We appreciate there are many important steps you’ll take as you form your business. This includes considerations such as business location, customers, and competitors.

But first, please register your business so you can get back to planning for opening day.

The registration process is fairly simple, but before you begin, have these pieces of information ready:

• Your business name  (complete a name reservation)
• Your business street address
• Your business NAICS code  (you can use this handy NAICS code lookup tool. Enter your business type, e.g. "catering services", in the Industry Finder search bar to find your code. Please select the closest match from the options presented)
• A business email address
• The name of your business agent

Don’t be surprised if you have questions (we totally get that a lot of people may not know what a NAICS code or a business agent is), and if so we recommend you visit our new business checklist tool.

In just a few short steps the tool will generate a personalized checklist that will guide you through the entire startup process - from registration to taxes to employees to insurance.

Check out some of the knowledge links below for additional help. And when you're ready, you can register your new business efficiently and securely.

 

Choosing a Business Name

Check Your Business Name

Your business name needs to be unique. This means that no other business in CT can already be using it.

Is the business name you want available?

Use our free lookup tool to find out.

Check Your Business Name
business-forms

Find Your NAICS Code

What's a NAICS code? The quick answer - a 6-digit number associated with your business category so you know which permits and licenses you may need.

Ready to find yours? Simply enter your type of business in the Industry Finder search bar to see your NAICS code.

Find Your NAICS CODE

Choose a Business Structure

The way you structure your business will affect things like tax liability and legal protection.

 

Need help deciding? Learn more about business structures now.


Choose a Business Structure