US: Wanting to start a Cake Decorating Business, but where do I begin?

This article outlines the first basic steps to take when wondering how to start a cake decorating business in the USA. This article should only be used as informative, and a good place to start. This is not legal advise, or play-by-play of creating a cake business in the United States

Wanting to start a Cake Decorating Business, but where do I begin?

The first place to start is to take a look at your Secretary of State website. Each state has their own health codes, business filings and taxation. By visiting the Sec. of State website you can get all the information you need on starting your business.

The most commonly asked question, (and usually the first question asked) is, “Is my business name idea already taken?”
Each S.O.S. website also has the ability to search an online database of already registered business names for free (Sorry Texans, your SOS charges $1 per online search).

Just click on your state’s name below to be taken directly to the search page. For all the information and guides on setting up your business click on the “Secretary of State” link to the right, to be taken to your SOS home page.

Additionally you can search the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

If your area is not currently listed, or the links are incorrect, please let us know.

Alabama

Alaska

Arizona

Arkansas

California

Colorado

Connecticut

Delaware

Florida

Georgia

Hawaii

Idaho

Illinois

Indiana

Iowa

Kansas

Kentucky

Louisiana

Maine

Maryland

Massachusetts

Michigan

Minnesota

Mississippi

Missouri

Montana

Nebraska

Nevada

New Hampshire

New Jersey

New Mexico

New York

North Carolina

North Dakota

Ohio

Oklahoma

Oregon

Pennsylvania

Rhode Island

South Carolina

South Dakota

Tennessee

Texas

  • Secretary of State ($1 charge online)
    For free by calling the New Filings Team at 512-463-5583

Utah

Vermont

Virginia (very difficult to navigate)

Washington

West Virginia

Wisconsin

Wyoming

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