The first step to starting a business is registering it. In New Jersey, business registration is a requirement, just like in any other state. But if you’ve never registered a business in New Jersey before, or anywhere else, you may not know how to begin.

What does a business registration application in NJ look like? Where do you get an NJ small business registration application? To answer these questions and others you likely have, here’s a look at how to complete your business registration in NJ.

Do I Need to Register My Business in New Jersey?

All businesses in New Jersey need to register for tax purposes. If you are a sole proprietor or general partnership, this is your only registration responsibility. However, if you are a corporation, limited partnership or limited liability company, you need to file entity formation/authorization documents for the public record as well.

How Do I Register a Business in New Jersey?

To register your business in New Jersey, all you need to do is file the appropriate formation/authorization certificate with the state. You can do this online, or you can download forms and instructions for filing offline. There is a filing fee of $125 ($75 for non-profits) that goes with this filing.

How Do I get a New Jersey Business Registration Certificate?

Once you have submitted the NJ-REG, the Division of Revenue will mail your business registration certificate to the mailing address you put down on the registration form.

What Is the NJ-REG?

NJ-REG is the form that all businesses, regardless of type, need to submit for tax purposes. You can fill out and submit the NJ-REG form online. You need this registration to make sure your business is on record with the proper tax identification number. Usually, this number will be your Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN).

If you do not have an FEIN, you can apply for one when you fill out and submit the NJ-REG. If you need to also register as a business entity, you can submit both forms at the same time. If you do not, you need to submit the NJ-REG within 60 days of entity formation registration.

What Do I Do Next?

Once you’ve obtained your NJ business certificate, your business is alive and running. This is a moment that sometimes fills business owners with panic — but it doesn’t have to. You based your business on a great idea, and all you need now are the right tools to make it a success. Coachfirm can help. We are an experienced small business consulting firm that has provided effective business coaching and consulting services to companies all over New Jersey.

No matter if you just need a little jump start, require some help with designing a long-term plan, are completely new to business or have started businesses before, we can provide you with expert ideas, advice, motivation and encouragement to get you on the right path. To find out how, contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation call today.