Doing business in the San Francisco 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. You may not be permitted to conduct business out of your home or engage in industrial activity in a retail district.

Taxes

IRS California Taxpayer Assistance Center
450 Golden Gate Ave.
San Francisco, CA 94102
Phone: 415-553-8990

State Taxes
Phone: 415-356-6600

Health and safety

California Department of Labor
1515 Clay St., Suite 1302
Oakland, CA 94612
Phone: 844-522-6734

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.

Local assistance

Need help? Get free business counseling in your area.

Find counselors

SBA lending in our area

Loan programs

Learn more about SBA's 7(a) loans, 504 loans, and microloans that you can use for your business.

Find a loan
Local lenders

Download a list of participating lenders in our area.

Download lender list
Lender Match

Describe your business needs and get matched with an SBA-backed lender in your area.

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Lending activity reports

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

View lending reports