Steps after Registration with the Secretary of State

Next you will need to obtain a business license from the Department of Revenue (DOR). 

• After formation, incorporation or registration, wait one business day and then complete a Business License Application if you have not already completed this step.
  • If you have any questions about the Business License Application, visit the DOR page - Apply for a Business License, or contact the Business License Services team.

Each link provides a summary of requirements from the listed State and Federal agencies.

Department of Labor and Industries (LnI)

1. Workers’ Compensation Insurance

   • If your business hires employees, you're generally required to register with L&I to provide workers’ compensation insurance.
   • This protects employees in case of work-related injuries or illnesses.

2. Employer Account Setup

   • When registering a business through the Washington Business Licensing Service (BLS), you can simultaneously set up your L&I employer account.
   • L&I will assign you an account manager and send a packet with your Workers' Comp Account ID and a Participant Activation Code (PAC).
   • Go to My L&I: Login or Sign Up and click "Sign Up".
   • Use the PAC from your packet to activate your account and gain secure access to online services.
   • This account is used to report wages and pay premiums for workers’ comp.

3. Safety and Health Regulations

   • L&I enforces workplace safety standards under Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act (WISHA).
   • Businesses may need to comply with safety inspections, training requirements, and reporting obligations.

4. Contractor Registration

   • If you're in construction or a related field, L&I handles contractor registration and licensing.
   • This includes verifying bonding, insurance, and compliance with state laws.

5. Prevailing Wage and Apprenticeship Programs

   • L&I oversees prevailing wage laws for public works projects.
   • It also manages apprenticeship program registrations and standards.

Visit the Department of Labor and Industries (LnI) Contact page.
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Employee Security Department (ESD)

1. Unemployment Insurance (UI)

   • If your business has employees, you must register with ESD to pay unemployment insurance taxes.
   • These taxes fund benefits for workers who lose their jobs through no fault of their own.

2. Employer Account Setup

   • Like L&I, ESD accounts are typically set up during the Business License Application process through the Business Licensing Service (BLS).
   • You’ll receive an ESD account number to report wages and pay UI taxes.

3. Wage Reporting

   • Employers must report employee wages quarterly to ESD.
   • This data is used to calculate unemployment benefits and monitor labor market trends.

4. Workforce Services

   • ESD offers recruitment support, job posting services, and access to workforce training programs.
   • Businesses can use ESD resources to find qualified candidates and upskill employees.

5. Compliance and Audits

   • ESD conducts audits to ensure proper wage reporting and UI tax payments.
   • Non-compliance can result in penalties or interest charges.

Visit the Employee Security Department (ESD) Contact page.

Federal Internal Revenue Service (IRS)

The IRS requires business entities to receive an Employer Identification Number (EIN).

• Visit the IRS website for additional details on how to apply for an EIN through their online portal.
• Visit the IRS – Let us Help you page for more information and contact information.

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