• There are state and federal requirements to starting a business in Omaha, Nebraska.Nebraska state contour against blurred USA flag image by Stasys Eidiejus from Fotolia.com
  
  In starting a business, one of the first steps that should be taken is an examination of the necessary requirements to do business. The city of Omaha, Nebraska has certain requirements that must be met before most businesses can open their doors, but there are also state and federal hoops to jump through.
  
  

Register With the Nebraska Secretary of State

• The first requirement to do business in Omaha is to select the legal structure of your company and register under that form with the Nebraska Secretary of State. Choices for legal company formation are: sole proprietorship, corporation, nonprofit, limited liability company, limited partnership, general partnership and limited liability partnership. Formation filing must be done in accordance with the requirements of the Nebraska Secretary of State. Forms and filing vary dependent on the business form. When choosing a form or filing, it is best to consult a small-business attorney to help ensure that no mistakes are made.
  
  

Federal Tax Identification Number

• As with any legal business started in Omaha or elsewhere in the United States, the company must register with the Internal Revenue Service. In registering with the IRS, you will receive a federal tax identification number. This identification number will be used for all federal tax issues and is a legal requirement in starting a business.
  
  

Obtain All City of Omaha Required Business Licenses and Permits

• License and permit requirements vary greatly dependent on the nature of the start-up business. To inquire about possible license and permit requirements, contact both the Douglas Country commissioner's office and the Omaha City Clerk. Do not neglect to check in with county and city offices. Doing business without the proper city and county sanctioning can result in fines, suspension of business or outright closing of the storefront. Most businesses will need a business license and an Omaha seller's permit.
  
  

Register with the Nebraska Department of Revenue

• If you are starting a business in Omaha and plan on having employees, conducting retail sales, renting or leasing property or providing taxable services, you need to register with the Nebraska Department of Revenue. To register, you must complete a two-page form and submit it via fax or mail. To receive an application packet, call 800-742-7474.