Federal, State & Local
Business Laws

Governs how the IRS classifies and taxes different business entity types.

Requires most U.S. businesses to report beneficial owners to FinCEN under the Corporate Transparency Act.

Federal tax identification number required for most business entities.

Requires businesses open to the public to be accessible to people with disabilities.

Establishes minimum wage, overtime pay, recordkeeping, and youth employment standards.

Prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetic information.

Requires employers to provide safe and healthful working conditions.

Governs annual federal income tax filing obligations for all business entity types.

Self-employed individuals pay both the employee and employer portions of Social Security and Medicare taxes.

Employers must withhold, deposit, and report federal income tax, Social Security, and Medicare taxes for employees.

Grants federal income tax exemption to qualifying charitable, religious, educational, and scientific organizations.

Tax-exempt organizations must pay tax on income from activities unrelated to their exempt purpose.

Prohibits unfair or deceptive acts or practices in commerce.

Sets rules for commercial email, establishes requirements for commercial messages, and gives recipients the right to opt out.

Establishes standards for financial reporting, internal controls, and auditor independence for public companies.

Requires financial institutions and certain businesses to assist government agencies in detecting and preventing money laundering.

Entitles eligible employees to unpaid, job-protected leave for specified family and medical reasons.

Requires applicable large employers (50+ full-time equivalent employees) to offer affordable health coverage.

Requires employers to verify the identity and employment authorization of all employees hired after November 6, 1986.

Federal trademark registration provides nationwide protection for brand names, logos, and slogans used in commerce.

Protects original works of authorship and provides safe harbor for online service providers.

Business websites must be accessible to people with disabilities under ADA Title III.

Requires registration of securities offerings with the SEC unless an exemption applies.

Requires financial institutions to explain their information-sharing practices and protect sensitive data.

Every state requires formal registration to legally form an LLC, corporation, or nonprofit.

Most states require businesses to file annual or biennial reports to maintain good standing.

Most states require nonprofits to register before soliciting donations from residents of that state.

Businesses with nexus in a state must collect and remit sales tax on taxable goods and services.

Employers must register with the state and pay unemployment insurance taxes for employees.

Most states require employers to carry workers' compensation insurance for employees.

Many states require a general business license or specific professional/occupational licenses.

Multiple states have enacted comprehensive data privacy laws giving consumers rights over their personal information.

Many states have minimum wages higher than the federal $7.25/hour.

State laws vary widely on the enforceability of non-compete agreements with employees.

Most cities and counties require a local business license or tax certificate to operate within their jurisdiction.

Local zoning ordinances regulate what types of businesses can operate in specific geographic areas.

Businesses handling food must obtain local health department permits and pass inspections.

Cities and counties regulate the size, placement, lighting, and content of business signs.

Many cities and counties have minimum wages and paid sick leave requirements above state and federal levels.

Businesses must comply with local building codes and fire safety regulations for their physical locations.