Business Journey
Starting a Business
A step-by-step guide to understanding the registrations, permits, and government requirements needed when starting a business. JUANGUIDE helps aspiring entrepreneurs understand the government processes involved in legally starting and operating a business in the Philippines.
Business Starter Checklist
Follow these key steps to prepare your registrations, permits, and tax requirements before opening your business.
Choose Your Business Structure
Decide the type of business you want to establish, such as a sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation.
Register Your Business Name
Register your business name with the appropriate government agency before operating your business. Examples include DTI Business Name Registration and SEC Registration for corporations and partnerships.
Get Your TIN
Register with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to obtain your Tax Identification Number and comply with tax requirements.
Secure Barangay Clearance
A Barangay Clearance may be required as part of the local business permit application process.
Apply for a Mayor’s Permit
Register your business with your local government unit to legally operate within your area. This may include business permit application, local fees, and required documents.
Complete BIR Registration
Register your business with the BIR and prepare the required tax documents before starting operations, including your Certificate of Registration, invoicing requirements, and books of accounts.
Business Registration Timeline
Use this simple timeline to understand the usual order of business preparation, registration, local permits, and tax compliance.
01 before starting
Prepare your business plan: business idea, location, target customers, and budget.
02 Business Registration
Register your business through business name registration, government registrations, and required permits.
03 local permits
Secure local approvals such as Barangay Clearance, Mayor’s Permit, and other local requirements.
04 tax registration
Complete BIR requirements including TIN registration, tax registration, and accounting requirements.
Before You Start Operating
Before opening your business, review these reminders so your registrations and records are complete.
1. Confirm all required registrations and permits.
Check that your business name registration, local permits, and tax registration are complete before operating.
2. Keep copies of all government documents.
Store both printed and digital copies of your permits, certificates, and application records for future reference.
3. Understand your tax responsibilities.
Learn the filing, invoicing, and bookkeeping requirements that apply to your business so you can stay compliant.
4. Check local requirements with your LGU.
Requirements may vary by city or municipality, so confirm the latest local procedures and fees before applying.
5. Maintain proper business records.
Keep organized records of registrations, receipts, books of accounts, and other business documents from the start.
Related
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Buying a Home
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Traveling Abroad
Connect to travel documents and international opportunities.
Ready to plan your next step?
Use JUANGUIDE to explore practical government guidance for work, family, travel, and other major life events.