Business in California

[tts55llc]

Question. I have been selling on ebay for 3 months. I want to now treat it like a business and acquire the permit and license in California. I am also thinking about a LLC. So, far I have been going in circles with what is needed and what process to follow. Any help is appreciated.

Thank you  

[ckimodog]

@tts55llc 

Are you located in California or somewhere else? From you photos etc. it looks like you are drop shipping. 

[tts55llc]

Yes, I am located in California. I sell on ebay and ship around the country.

[kensgiftshop]

You'll need to check with the state of California to see what all you'll need.

[tts55llc]

Yes, they are giving me a run around, because there is no Business Activity code for a reseller. 

[mordecai8614]

I'd talk to an accountant, you'll probably want one anyway if you're going to start a legitimate business

[gwens*4saleitems*]

This should help some. 

Starting a Business Checklist :: California Secretary of State

[chapeau-noir]

Slow down on the LLC, etc. - sole proprietor works fine until you get up and running and some more experience.

[tts55llc]

Thank you very much, and have a safe Memorial day as well

[tts55llc]

That is my next step. Thank you very much

[tts55llc]

Will do and cross your fingers. I am dealing with Sacramento. 🙂

[tts55llc]

Thanks for the info. I am looking at all three.

[caldreamer]

California requires that you get a "business license" from City of Oxnard to sell online items (costs about $60/year). 

 
Even though EBAY collects "sales tax" and remits to customers on your behalf...you need to "register" your business and get "log-on ID" number from California Dept. Tax & Fee (this way you can legally deduct "business expenses" on your Federal income tax).    When you file your annual California Sales Tax form online....you show EBAY as "facilitator that collects & remits "sales tax" on your behalf (you never owe any State sales tax).

https://onlineservices.cdtfa.ca.gov/_/#1

Not necessary to get LLC or have EBAY business account.   Of course, if you want to do this it is perfectly okay.

[chapeau-noir]

I've sold here for way too long, including partly making my living here, and have never had a business account.

[tts55llc]

Thank you for the information. I called my CPA and she is pointing me in this direction. Thanks again