Starting a Business in Mississippi Checklist
Check business name availability with the Mississippi Secretary of StateDo a name search to see if your business name is available: https://business.sos.state.ms.us/corp/soskb/CSearch.asp?dtm=590902777777778 Mississippi name requirements Corporations: names must contain the word “corporation,” “incorporated,” “company” or “limited,” or the abbreviation “corp.,” “inc.,” “co.” or “ltd.” or words or abbreviations of like import in another language. LLCs: names must contain the words “limited liability company” or the abbreviation “L.L.C.” or “LLC.” The name may also contain the name of a member or manager. Mississippi Secretary of StateSecretary of State |
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File paperwork to create my businessYou can form your Mississippi corporation or Mississippi LLC by mail or in person. The filing fee is $50 for an Mississippi corporation or LLC. The Secretary of State will take 24-48 hours to process your articles. Mississippi doesn’t have online filing, you have to mail or deliver your articles to the Office of the Secretary of State. Once filed, you can view your articles online. Your LLC or corporation articles will need to have the following information: – Business email address – Number of shares and par value (corporations only) – Name and office address of registered agent – Name and address of each incorporator (corporations only) – Management type (LLCs only) – Name title and address of each person signing document Incorporate in Mississippi with Northwest Registered Agent if you’d prefer to hire a professional service company complete the filing for you. Mississippi Secretary of StateSecretary of State |
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Register with the Department of RevenueYou can register with the Department of Revenue by completing the TAP online registration https://tap.dor.ms.gov/_/#1 You can use the TAP online registration for most types of tax including sales, income, and withholding. Sales Tax:Mississippi has a 7% state sales tax. ` Income tax:Mississippi individual and corporate tax rates are the same. 3% on the first $5,000 of taxable income Mississippi Dept of RevenueDepartment of Revenue P: (601) 923-7000 |
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Do I need a business license?There is no general state business license but you may need a business license based on your occupation. Always check with the appropriate government agency for details. If you are a professional, you will want to check with the board that licenses your profession. Any other registration requirements?Many local governments issue business licenses and other permits, so always check with the city and county where your business is located. City of JacksonYou are required to have a business license to do business in Jackson. You need to have your application notarized and deliver it to the Signs and Licensing Department. You have to pay the fee and get your license before you can open for business. City of GulfportYou will need to apply for a privilege tax license from the City Clerk’s General Finance Office. You will need to have your signature notarized or sign in at the General Finance office so they can witness your signature. Local License InfoCity of JacksonSigns and License Division City of GulfportCity Clerk |
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Collect and Charge Sales TaxDo I need to collect Mississippi sales tax?You need to apply for a Mississippi sales tax permit if your business sells tangible personal property or certain services. What is the Mississippi sales tax rate?Mississippi has a 7% tax on the sale of tangible goods. How do I register for Mississippi sales tax?You can register with the Mississippi Department of Revenue (including sales tax) by completing the online registration https://tap.dor.ms.gov/_/#1 How much does a Mississippi sales tax permit cost?There is no fee for the sales tax permit. Depending upon the type of business or your tax history, the Department of revenue may require you to pay a bond before they will issue your sales tax permit. Department of RevenueMississippi Department of Revenue Mailing: P: (601) 923-7000 |
