How do I start a business in California with no money?
Sarah Garza
Updated on April 05, 2026
How to Start a Profitable Business in California With No Money – A Complete Guide
- Research your Market.
- Prepare a Simple Business Plan.
- Undergo Some Training.
- Find a Good Location for your Business.
- Choose a Business Name.
- Choose Business Structure and Register your Business.
- Apply and Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits.
How much is a seller’s permit in California?
A seller’s permit allows you to collect sales tax from customers and report those amounts to the state on a regular reporting period (either monthly, quarterly, or annual). There is no charge for a seller’s permit, but security deposits are sometimes required.
What do you need to know about starting a business in California?
In order to maintain your business, there may be recurring reporting, fees, taxes and filings that the business must provide to state, local, and federal agencies. For additional information related to starting your business, please visit:
Where can I get a business license in California?
Forms are available on the Secretary of State website (bizfile.sos.ca.gov). For Secretary of State filing fee information, see the grid below: * The counter fee is required if submitting the forms in person at the Secretary of State’s Business Programs Division filing counter. Do not include the $15 counter fee if delivering the forms by mail.
What are the steps to starting a business?
These steps will vary according to the type of business you intend to start and the county and city in which the business will be located.
Where can I get help starting a business?
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA, sba.gov) provides assistance for business planning at offices throughout the state and at 144 Califor- nia resource partner offices. The SBA provides free access to a variety of informa- tion designed to help entrepreneurs start and operate their business.
