Guide to Complying with Government Regulations

Check the official business link to the U.S. government

Business.gov was created to be the central point of contact for any questions you have about government rules and regulations that affect your business.

I recommend: Before launching your small business, be sure to check on specific laws and regulations for your area.

Apply for the right business licenses

Get a business license and, if needed, a certificate of occupancy for your office from local authorities.

I recommend: The U.S. Small Business Administration has the right links to licensing authorities in all states.

Comply with a wide range of tax rules and regulations

Except for partnerships, all businesses must file an annual income tax return. Self-employment, excise and employment taxes are other common business levies.

I recommend: Get complete A to Z information on tax rules and regulations that might impact your business at the IRS Small Business/Self-Employed Web site.

Seek help for unfair regulatory practices from the Small Business Ombudsman

The Ombudsman's missions is to assist small businesses with unfair and excessive federal regulatory enforcement, such as repetitive audits or investigations, excessive fines, penalties, retaliation or other unfair regulatory enforcement action by a federal agency.

I recommend: Discover how the Ombudsman's office can help your small business.

Trust, but verify

All employers must verify a worker's eligibility by processing a Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification Form.

I recommend: Access forms and guidance from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

Don't ignore safety

While state laws vary, the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets general standards for employers. And businesses with at least three employees must have workers' compensation insurance in case of on-the-job injuries.

I recommend: Contact regional and state OSHA offices about standards, and state labor offices for insurance questions. Find answers you need in the OSHA small business section.

Keep up-to-date records

Businesses must meet specific standards on internal financial reporting and protection of customer information.

I recommend: See Compliance Online for comprehensive information on recent changes in federal law. Check with the U.S. Department of Labor for up-to-date information on wage-and-hour laws, leave and overtime issues. The federal government publishes new rules and regulations every weekday in the Federal Register.