Doing business in the Louisiana District

Business requirements

SBA’s Business Guide lists the requirements needed to start, grow, and expand your business. Since laws and taxes vary by state, here’s what you need to do before starting your business in our area.

Business name and registration

Register your business name with the county clerk where your business is located. If you are a corporation, you will also need to register with the Secretary of State.

Business licensing and zoning

Licenses are typically administered by a variety of state and local departments. It is important to consider zoning regulations when choosing a site for your business. Contact the local business license office where you plan to locate your business.

Taxes

Louisiana Taxpayer Assistance Centers
1555 Poydras St.
New Orleans, LA 70112
Phone: 800-829-1040

Louisiana Department of Revenue
1450 Poydras St., Suite 800
New Orleans, LA 70112
Phone: 855-307-3893

Health and safety

Louisiana Workforce Commission
1001 N. 23rd St.
Baton Rouge, LA 70802
Phone: 225-342-3111

OSHA Baton Rouge Area Office
9100 Bluebonnet Centre Blvd., Suite 201
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
Phone: 225-298-5458

State small business profiles

Need information on the local business landscape? SBA's Office of Advocacy has the latest demographic and statistics on local small business economic activity.

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Local assistance

Need help? Get free business counseling in your area.

SBA lending in our area

  • Loan programs

    Loan programs icon
    Learn more about SBA's 7(a) loans, 504 loans, and microloans that you can use for your business.
  • Lender Match

    Lender Match icon
    Describe your business needs and get matched with an SBA-backed lender in your area.
  • Lending activity reports

    Lending activity reports icon
    View 7(a) and 504 lending activity reports from our district.

Additional local resources

Download our guide to SBA resources

Learn about the opportunities available for small businesses nationwide.

Last updated March 22, 2024