start a business in erlanger

Whether you’ve decided to start a new business or relocate, this page provides information about establishing a business within the City. There are many great resources available to help you on your journey, provided below. If you don’t find what you’re looking for here, please contact Emi Randall, Economic Development Director.

Choose a business name and organizational structure

A “choose your structure wizard” and “business name availability search” are available at the Kentucky One Stop Shop Business Portal. A resource video on organization structures can be found at the Kentucky Small Business Development Center Website. You may wish to seek legal counsel in determining the best way to organize your business and to assist with business incorporation.

Develop a business plan

This step is necessary if you are planning to seek any financing for your business. Financiers will want to know your knowledge of the business and how you plan to succeed. Even if you are not seeking financing, creating a business plan can be a helpful process. Your business plan should include:

1. Description of the company’s products or services
2. Analysis of target markets and competitors
3. Description of the organizational structure of the business
4. Creation of a marketing strategy
5. Selection of an operating location (consult the multiple listing service, loopnet, the team kentucky property locator and visit physical locations for available spaces)
6. Projections of business financials

Register your business with the Commonwealth

Once you’ve determined how you will legally name and organize your business, you must register your business with the Kentucky Secretary of State and the Department of Department of Revenue at the Kentucky One Stop Shop Business Portal. Note that you will need to create and file articles of incorporation if you are creating a corporate business entity.

Register your business with Kenton County and the City of Erlanger

A consolidated business license for the County and City can be obtained through the Kenton County Business Services Department.

Register with the Internal Revenue Service

Do this in order to obtain your Federal Tax Identification Number or Employer Identification Number.

Register for any additional State Taxes

Register for any additional State Taxes that are required for the business through the Kentucky Department of Revenue. Required taxes may include the following:

Employer’s Withholding Tax
Sales and Use Tax
Consumer’s Use Tax
Corporation Income Tax
Limited Liability Entity Tax (LLE)
Transient Room Tax
Motor Vehicle Tire Tax
Coal Severance and Processing Tax

Acquire any necessary permits and licenses

A zoning permit is required for any new buildings, building additions, exterior changes and changes from one type of business to another. Contact Mark Stewart, at 727-7992 for more information.
A building permit is required for any new buildings, building additions and interior renovations. Contact Mark Stewart at 727-7992 for more information.
Check to see if any federal licenses are required for your business.
Businesses selling or serving alcoholic beverages must acquire an Alcoholic Beverage Control license through the Kentucky Public Protection Cabinet.
Businesses making, serving or selling food must obtain a license from the Northern Kentucky Health Department.

Additional licenses or permits are required for many others including hair and nail salons, day cares, veterinary clinics, architects and other personal and professional service businesses. Check to see if your business requires any additional licenses on the Kentucky One Stop Shop Business Portal.

Get Insured

If you plan to hire employees, you will need to acquire unemployment insurance through the Kentucky Office of Unemployment Insurance and worker’s compensation insurance through the Kentucky Labor Cabinet. Most businesses will also want to obtain additional private insurance against liabilities and potential losses.

Get your finances and accounting in order

Secure any necessary business banking and credit accounts you will need to operate your business. Consult with or hire a local accountant to ensure your business will be off to a good start by keeping good business financial records.

Additional resources

ksbdc.org

northernkentuckyusa.com

Create a Business Plan