Small business ownership is no small feat. However, one of the best tips we can give you as you embark on your journey is to do your research and make a list. Since you’re here learning about Nebraska business licenses, we know you’re ready to invest in learning how to do things right.
Finding answers to your business license questions sometimes feels easier said than done, though. There are a lot of vague statements, government jargon, and complicated websites.
You likely have better things to do than spend hours searching for answers, so we’ve written this shortcut for you. In this guide, we’ll cover what you need to know about getting a state of Nebraska business license so you can check this essential item off your to-do list.
Ready? Let’s get started!
Do I Need a Nebraska Business License?
First things first — what’s the point of a Nebraska business license? While there’s no universal license, there’s a good reason for some of the state’s requirements. Licenses in the state are based on your occupation and help ensure that you’re qualified for the job.
We’ll cover typical prerequisites further down, but at the very least, your state or local government typically wants a record to know you’re registered as a business. Rules and regulations aside, business licenses can help you earn customer trust. Taking the time to set up your business legally usually sends a signal that you don’t cut corners and stand behind your work.
How to Get a Nebraska Business License
1. Find the state department that regulates your industry.
There are many unique jobs and business types, so the state typically lets departments manage what they know best. For example, acupuncturists and agricultural workers have different license requirements, and they answer to separate agencies.
Some of the agencies in charge of business licenses in Nebraska include:
- Nebraska Department of Agriculture
- Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services
- Nebraska Department of Labor
To find which Nebraska business license applies to your business, you can visit the state’s business licensing page. This page has some quick links, such as applying for an electrician or architect license, plus links to licensing departments.
Another place to find your license requirements is the One Stop Licensing Portal, where you can either search by occupation or filter by industry and agency. For example, a contractor in Nebraska typically could filter results by the “Construction” category and find “contractor registration” on the list.
Once you find the license listing applicable to you, you can navigate to the associated site to find license requirements, applications, and fees.
2. Check for local license requirements.
Depending on your business, you might need a state of Nebraska business license, another from the town you live in, or both. That’s why it’s a good idea to double-check with your local government. If you can’t find a specific business license website for your area, reach out to the City Clerk.
You don’t expect to have to hunt for those websites on your own, do you? Of course not! The point of this article is to make your day a little easier, so here are links to licensing for the state’s five largest cities:
3. Submit your application, qualifications, and fee.
After you confirm which Nebraska business license rules apply to you, you can get to work on your application. Typically, business license applications are straightforward. You’ll probably need to provide:
- Personal information, like your name, citizenship status, contact information, and criminal record
- Business details such as your business name, tax identification number, and address
You also may need to provide proof of your education or experience. For example, pesticide applicator workers must complete an exam before securing their state of Nebraska business license. Meanwhile, electrical contractors currently must prove either four years of schooling and a year of work experience or five years of on-the-job experience.
After you’ve collected the documentation for your application, it’s time to submit your application and fee. Some licenses can be submitted online, while others require you to mail everything to the licensing agency. No matter which method you must use, be sure you have everything you need upfront to make the approval process faster.
How Much Is a Nebraska Business License?
Small business owners are mindful of every dollar coming in and going out of their business, so you’re probably curious about Nebraska business license fees. While we can’t give you an exact answer here, we can at least give you an idea. Keep in mind license fees vary, but here are a few examples:
- Farm labor contractors need to pay $250 to get their license
- Taxicab drivers in Lincoln pay only a $15 application and business license fee
- Electrical contractors in Omaha will pay between $10 and $85, depending on their experience level
- License fees for acupuncturists depend on which month and year they apply, ranging from $75 up to $300
WHAT CITIES AND REGIONS ARE SEEING THE BIGGEST BOOM IN NEW BUSINESS APPLICATIONS?
State of Nebraska Business License + Insurance Requirements
That’s a lot of information to take in so far, but you’re almost to the finish line. We’d be doing you a disservice if we didn’t at least mention business insurance, since it’s an important part of safeguarding your business.
In most cases, there may not be a legal requirement for business insurance when submitting a Nebraska business license application. However, we always recommend looking into it. General liability insurance can help cover the costs of accidents, third-party property damage, and more. Plus, having business insurance is good for your reputation. Getting licensed shows that you play by the rules, and carrying a business insurance policy gives customers peace of mind in doing business with you.
Additionally, if you have one or more employees, Nebraska law dictates that you need workers compensation insurance. If you’re curious about getting covered, you can use our free quote comparison tool to get custom quote options from top insurers in just a few minutes.
Applying for a NE Business License?
You may need to show proof of business insurance to get your license.
That’s where we come in. Compare insurance quotes today.
Your Business License is the First Step in a Prosperous Journey
Digging through requirements and reviewing applications probably isn’t how you’d like to spend an afternoon. However, you can use the prospect of a thriving business ahead to help you power through these initial business steps.
Setting the right tone for your business and reputation likely will allow you to reap the rewards for years to come, and you will be grateful for the work you did today. Plus, you don’t have to accomplish everything today. Dedicating just a half-hour each day to progressing your business will get you far.
Now take a deep breath, put your chin up, and start working toward your dream!