Do I need an EIN or SSN to register a business?
All corporations, LLC’s and limited partnerships formed in New Jersey must register using EIN. Partnership or proprietorships with employees need to register using EIN, but those with no employees can use either EIN or SSN. This number will serve as your business tax ID in New Jersey.
Business Tax Registration Certificate
All companies doing business within New Jersey need to register with the State. It’s easy to do online.
Tips before Registering
All companies doing business within the State of New Jersey must obtain a Business Registration Certificate from the New Jersey Treasury Department. It’s easy to do online, or you may apply on paper via a NJ-REG form.
Before registering with the State, make sure you address the following items:
- Partnerships, LLC’s, and Corporations
If you plan to start a general or limited partnership, LLC, or corporation, you will need to incorporate your business with the State before completing this step. - Location & Zoning
Check zoning and decide on a location for your business before registering. If you register your business before choosing a final location, you will have to update your registration with the new address. This can cost money and time. - Business Name
Make sure the business name you want hasn’t already been taken by someone else conducting business in the State. (Business Name Search) - Employer Identification Number (EIN)
You’ll need to have your EIN from the US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) before you can register your business with the State. It’s free and simple to do online. If you are planning to be a sole proprietor and will not hire any employees, you may also use your Social Security Number, although it’s recommended to obtain an EIN to avoid identity theft. - Sales Tax Number
If you’re planning to sell goods or products that are taxable, you’ll need a resale certificate from the New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services.
Step 1: Register Your Business
You may register your business online or with a paper form (it is recommended that you use the online application). To register, you will need to provide:
- Your Federal Employment Identification Number (EIN). Alternately, you may use your Social Security Number if you are a sole proprietor with no employees.
- A description of your business activities
- Your legal business name
- Your business type (partnership, sole proprietor, etc.)
- Your business start date
- The primary mailing address for your business
- Your business contact information
- Your Sales Tax Number (if you registered for a seller’s permit with the State of New Jersey)
Depending on your business, you may also need to register for Police, Fire and/or Tobacco permits. The Office of Finance application will help you identify whether these are necessary.
Step 2: Business Tax Registration Certificate
Once you’ve completed your application, you will be able to obtain your Business Registration Certificate (BRC). If you completed your application online, you will be issued a BRC immediately with a paper form being mailed to you in a few weeks. You will need to use your BRC number to pay your business taxes.