How to start a business in Washington DC
The District government has different registration processes for partnerships, corporations, and limited liability companies.
- Point of contact - Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs
- 941 North Capitol Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002
- Phone: (202) 442-4400
- web: www.dcra.dc.gov
- LLC's, LLP's & For-Profit Corporations
- Business name requirements - The District of Columbia allows an entity to register and use a business name (trade name) different from its corporation, partnership, or company name. Similarly, an individual can register and use a trade name different from his or her true name. A trade name is not required if a business or individual operates using its true name. Trade names can be obtained separately or as part of the Basic Business License application.
- Procedures - File Articles of Organization to register a limited liability company in DC. Choose a registered agent, a person who will serve as the point of contact between your business and DC, and complete the Written Consent to Act as Registered Agent. Submit the forms and fee to the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs at 941 North Capitol Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002. Forms are available online at http://mblr.dc.gov/corp/forms/index.shtm
