This probably varies from state to state, but what does it take to start a personal business?

I am wanting to take my graphic design talents and offer it to people, such as designing of business cards, logos, fonts, websites, designs, wedding invites, etc and want to start my own small personal business locally. Does anyone have any idea what I need in the state of Iowa to be able to start this business? Do I need a sales tax license or any other license and where do I go to register my business?

Hopefully I can get some serious help here.


*I found the website for registering for business taxes online. I will be filling it out tomorrow and it says I can begin with my business after that time. I am going to think of a name, get a plan together, and make business cards, website, and business contract as well. I'm sure I'm missing a lot can others help me out here?

You ever use google?? I hear it has alot of information these days..

LOL, I used google for the sales tax license but still can't find info on anything else I may need. Really though andrew383, thanks for the helpful advice.

I suggest going to some small business that are in town already,ask about it when you file the paper work also..

starting a business
and another

I was working at my other job today and was helping a customer when a guy came in and asked if I did graphic design (saw what I was helping customer with), then he pulled me over to side and asked if I could do some work on the side for him after I explained I was just starting as a small personal business. So I will have my first work order in a few days:D I plan on visiting local shops and maybe a few restraunts, look @ their menus and come back make a better one for free, and get my name out there.

Start your business but do it as under the table. I've been reading up on powder coating and such and I might be doing some powder coating out of my house and I'm not going to register it as a business. Our great gov't doesn't need anymore of our $$.

Our great Gov't can easily read your post!