Build your business in Oregon with ease
Do you feel the inner calling for independence and business adventure? Would you like to become a business owner and a decision-maker? Starting a business is like opening a new door. It brings new experiences to light, both good and challenging. It can sound complicated and scary, but in fact - it is only a few steps process. Below, we list what exactly is needed for starting your own business in Oregon. We will help you to set it all right.
- Deciding on a company name & structure
- Registration process & documents
- Tax obligations
- Valuable tips
- & more
Are you from another state?
Check out other guides if you need more detailed information about different states. You can click the state you are interested in on our map or choose it from the list below.
Pick your company name
While thinking about your company name, consider these few crucial elements, as a perfect name:
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cannot exist in the business database (cannot be already registered)
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should be personal and unique
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has a positive association
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indicates the type of industry
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is related to what you do (if it is very specific) and open for possible business modifications in the future as well (to stay up-to-date even if you, e.g., broaden your field of expertise
It is not obligatory, but a company name can be reserved.
To register your enterprise name, download the registration form.
You may also decide on a trademark for your business, like a logo and slogan.
Choose the entity type
Entity type defines your future business structure, including elements such as ownership, liability, management control, taxation, and more.
There are a few different types of entities:
- Sole Proprietorship
- General Partnership
- LLC
- Corporation / Nonprofit Corporation
For more detailed information, check the table about entities types and their characteristics in Oregon.
While considering a small service business, we advise you to choose from the first three options.
Note: "If you have questions on which form is best for your particular situation, please consider consulting: an attorney; a certified public accountant; one of Oregon’s Small Business Development Centers" (source: oregon.gov)
Set up your business website
A business website is the visual image of your company and a source of information about your services for your future potential customers. While creating your webpage, consider the following elements:
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it cannot be already registered
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the name should be the same or at least very close to your business name
You can set up your company website for free using IKOL - just create an account and your webpage is generated automatically! Then you can customize it to your needs, by adding services from our default catalog, adjusting the layout, publishing photos, and other data.
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Place application with needed documents
To register your business, you have to consider both state and local requirements.
State: Contact the Oregon Business Registry - a one-stop shop for business registration across Oregon State agencies. (secure.sos.state.or.us)
Local: "Many cities and counties also require registration or licensing for individuals and firms conducting business within their jurisdiction. To learn about your requirements in this area, consult your local county clerks and city clerks." (source: oregon.gov)
There are no documents you have to submit to start your Sole Proprietorship in Oregon. It means that you do not register your company as its own legal entity. This is what makes it the easiest business to begin.
However, there are some steps you might need to take, e.g. getting licenses or permits to operate or registering the name.
If in the earlier stage, you decided on a distinct company name than your first and last name, you must submit an Assumed Business Name (ABN) form together with a $50 fee to register it (check ABN registration instructions).
There are no documents you have to submit to start your General Partnership in Oregon. It means that you do not register your company as its own legal entity. This is what makes it the easiest business to begin.
However, there are some steps you might need to take, e.g. getting licenses or permits to operate or registering the name.
If in the earlier stage, you decided on a distinct company name than your first and last name, you must submit an Assumed Business Name (ABN) together with a $50 fee to register it (check ABN registration instructions).
To register your new Limited Liability Company, you must submit the following documents:
- Articles of Organization
- Articles of Amendment/Dissolution
- Articles of Merger - Multi Entity Merger
- $100 fee
You can submit your application online by creating an account on the Secretary of State website: https://secure.sos.state.or.us or via mail sending it to this address:
Secretary of State Corporation Division
255 Capitol St. NE, Suite 151
Salem, OR 97310
Processing time takes an average of 1-3 working days for online applications and one week for mail. Note: Your LLC "must be renewed annually to remain active" (source: https://apps.oregon.gov)
Obtain EIN & check tax regulations
Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) which is needed also for a one-person business, e.g. to open a business bank account. Apply via the Internal Revenue Service website: https://www.irs.gov/.
Oregon is rather a friendly state when it comes to tax obligations. What is more, responsibilities differ depending on the number of members within the LLC.
- Sole Proprietorship taxes: You only file your personal tax return - Federal Form 1040 and Oregon Form OR-40
- Single-Member LLC taxed as a Sole Proprietorship: You file your personal tax return - Federal Form 1040 and Oregon Form OR-40, and include your LLC profits on the return
- Multi-Member LLC taxed as a Partnership: You file an IRS Form 1065 and an Oregon Partnership Return (Form OR-65)
Search all tax payment forms here: https://www.oregon.gov
Note: Forms for paying taxes in Oregon vary whether you are a full-year Resident, part-year Resident, or Nonresident. Hence, click the button below and check the official government website to search for suitable forms.
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