The fastest way to get your business license in West Virginia

If you’re looking to start a business in West Virginia, you’ll need to get a business license first. Luckily, the process is fairly simple and can be completed in just a few steps. In this post, we’ll walk you through the process of getting your business license in West Virginia. So, whether you’re starting a new business or expanding into West Virginia, keep reading for all the information you need.

how to get a business license in wv

The process of getting a business license in West Virginia is fairly straightforward. However, there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind, such as the type of business you’re starting and the requirements for your specific industry.

Determine which type of license you need

The first step in getting your business license is to determine which type of license you need. There are different types of licenses for different types of businesses, so it’s important to know which one you need before you begin the application process.

For example, if you’re starting a daycare center, you’ll need to apply for a Child Care Facility license. On the other hand, if you’re starting a restaurant, you’ll need to apply for a Food Service Establishment license.

Fill out the application

Once you’ve determined which type of license you need, you can begin filling out the application. The application is available on the West Virginia Secretary of State website.

Be sure to fill out the application completely and accurately. Incomplete or inaccurate applications will be rejected, and you’ll have to start the process over again.

Submit the application

After you’ve filled out the application, you’ll need to submit it to the West Virginia Secretary of State office. You can do this in person, by mail, or online.

If you submit the application in person, you’ll need to bring two copies of the completed application, as well as the applicable fees.

If you submit the application by mail, you’ll need to include two copies of the completed application, as well as a check or money order for the applicable fees.

If you submit the application online, you’ll need to create an account on the West Virginia Business OneStop portal. Once you’ve created an account, you can log in and submit your application.

Gather the required documents

After you’ve submitted your application, you’ll need to gather the required documents. The required documents vary depending on the type of business you’re starting and the location of your business.

For example, if you’re starting a daycare center, you’ll need to submit proof of liability insurance and a criminal background check.

If you’re starting a restaurant, you’ll need to submit proof of liability insurance, a health inspection certificate, and a fire safety inspection certificate.

Pay the applicable fees

The next step is to pay the applicable fees. The fees vary depending on the type of business you’re starting and the location of your business.

For example, the fee for a Child Care Facility license is $100, while the fee for a Food Service Establishment license is $180.

Wait for your business license to be processed and approved

After you’ve submitted your application and required documents, you’ll need to wait for your business license to be processed and approved. The processing time varies depending on the type of business you’re starting and the location of your business.

For example, the processing time for a Child Care Facility license is 10-15 business days, while the processing time for a Food Service Establishment license is 20-25 business days.

You can check the status of your application on the West Virginia Business OneStop portal.

Once your business license has been approved, you’ll receive a notification from the West Virginia Secretary of State office.

You’re now ready to start operating your business in West Virginia!