[Frenelli]

This is for USA laws just to be clear.

Do you need a business license to be a freelance graphic/web designer?

[Smith]

As a sole proprietorship with only myself as an employee, I just had to file a Fictitious Business Name Statement.

[Frenelli]

Ok, yah I meant freelancing. I should specifiy that.
and what if here's no business name it's just your name on the website.

[Smith]

I freelanced for a couple of years and had that question too. I think the gist of it is that unless you're trading goods or are a certain type of business, you don't need a formal business license.

I was told I didn't need one by the paralegal who did my filing for me. Hope she's right.

[Marcus]

A work at home business or home business can be an exciting, challenging, and lucrative adventure. It is, however, relatively the same as any other business, and is subject to the same laws and regulations that govern any business, no matter what the size. Simply because home businesses are sometimes "one person" endeavors (especially in the beginning) does not free them from adherence to the same laws and regulations that apply to all businesses.

Research Laws to Make Sure Your Home-Based Business is following Legalities

In order to avoid problems both in the beginning, and in the future of any home business, it is important to do some research, spend some money, and otherwise make sure that all laws and regulations at the state, local, and national levels are followed "to the letter".
Herewith follows some basic guidelines to keeping your work at home business legal, and avoiding possible aggravation and heartache in the future:

1. Call your Department of State, or other local government agency, before starting your business.

All information from local government agencies is always usually free, and any required licenses such as DBA (Doing Business As, or Fictitious Name Licensing), will be fully explained, as well as Articles of Incorporation and other smaller license requirements. Usually the fees and how to obtain all necessary licensing will be explained as well in a phone call such as this.
2. Regional / Local Zoning Permits

Call your regional or local government office for any advice on zoning permits that may be required or space and inventory requirements, depending on the type of business.
3. Call an accountant or accounting firm.

These firms are generally hugely knowledgeable about how to start and maintain a legal work at home business and will freely share this advice with others. They will in addition have a good knowledge of local requirements and tax issues.
4. Tax Requirement for Your Home-Based Business.

Find out before starting, what tax requirements are necessary and the forms you must have on hand before beginning. These forms and requirements will depend on the type of business, number of employees (if any), etc., and are a necessary part of setting up any home-based business.
5. Call a local business chamber of commerce if possible.

Other business owners can effectively impart information on other legalities, and usually do so very willingly.

All of the above require some fees, but are usually very economical means of preventing larger fines and sometimes legal action if regulations and licensing requirements are not met. Remember, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure", and this statement is no truer than when applied to a work at home business.

Insurance - In order to protect your investments from natural disasters and other calamities you need to find good business insurance. Some is required by law others you will want to acquire for additional protection.

* Liability - In case you incur a lawsuit based on the use of your product and other types based on industry.
* Property - Used to replace any equipment or valuables damaged or destroyed by unforeseen events.
* Business Interruption - Used to cover taxes, utilities, and other fixed expenses when any property is out of commission.
* Key Man - Insurance to cover loans in the event an owner and key employee dies.
* Automobile - If you use your automobile for business use. You will need to have this type of insurance.
* Office and Director - In the case of a corporation, if the officers or directors become personally liable for actions on behalf of the corporation.
* Home Office - If you have a home-based business, you will have to update your existing policy to include office equipment because it is not included in the standard homeowner policy.

[Pugsley]

The power of CTRL(or CMD if your cool enough) + V