U.S. CONGRESSMANALAN LOWENTHALServing California's 47th District

Small Business Resources

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Small Business Resources


One of my priorities as your Congressman is to help create jobs and develop our local economy. I am happy to help small businesses find federal resources and loans that may be available.

The Small Business Administration (www.sba.gov) is a great federal resource to help with the process of starting a small business, from counseling and training to providing a thorough review funding opportunities and much more. There are many resources available to help existing and future small business owners succeed; however, many people often do not know where to turn. Click here to learn more about how the Small Business Administration (SBA) can help.

10 Steps to Starting a Business
(compiled by the Small Business Administration)

Starting a business involves planning, making key financial decisions and completing a series of legal activities. These 10 easy steps can help you plan, prepare and manage your business.

Step 1: Write a Business Plan
Use these tools and resources to create a business plan. This written guide will help you map out how you will start and run your business successfully.

Step 2: Get Business Assistance and Training
Take advantage of free training and counseling services, from preparing a business plan and securing financing, to expanding or relocating a business.

Step 3: Choose a Business Location
Get advice on how to select a customer-friendly location and comply with zoning laws.

Step 4: Finance Your Business
Find government backed loans, venture capital and research grants to help you get started.

Step 5: Determine the Legal Structure of Your Business
Decide which form of ownership is best for you: sole proprietorship, partnership, Limited Liability Company (LLC), corporation, S corporation, nonprofit or cooperative.

Step 6: Register a Business Name ("Doing Business As")
Register your business name with your state government.

Step 7: Get a Tax Identification Number
Learn which tax identification number you'll need to obtain from the IRS and your state revenue agency.

Step 8: Register for State and Local Taxes
Register with your state to obtain a tax identification number, workers' compensation, unemployment and disability insurance.

Step 9: Obtain Business Licenses and Permits
Get a list of federal, state and local licenses and permits required for your business.

Step 10: Understand Employer Responsibilities
Learn the legal steps you need to take to hire employees.


Provided below are additional valuable resources for small business owners and potential entrepreneurs. If you have further questions, feel free to call my office for further guidance.

 

Capitol Hill Office

Washington, DC
125 Cannon HOB
(House Office Building)
Washington, DC 20515

Phone: (202) 225-7924
Fax: (202) 225-7926

Hours: 9am - 6pm EST

District Office

Long Beach
100 W. Broadway
West Tower Suite 600
Long Beach, CA 90802

Phone: (562) 436-3828
Fax: (562) 437-6434

Hours: 9am - 5pm PST

Satellite Office Days and Hours

  • Cypress
    City of Cypress City Hall
    5275 Orange Ave
    Cypress, CA 90630

    Hours: Tuesdays,
    10:00am - 12:30pm

  • Garden Grove
    Garden Grove City Hall
    11222 Acacia Pkwy
    (3rd Floor, Rm. 333)
    Garden Grove, CA 92840

    Hours: Wednesdays,
    2:00pm - 4:30pm

  • Westminster
    Westminster Community Services Building
    8200 Westminster Blvd
    Westminster, CA 92683

    Hours: Wednesdays,
    10:00am - 12:30pm

  • Stanton
    City of Stanton City Hall
    7800 Katella Ave
    Stanton, CA 90680

    Hours: Tuesdays,
    1:30pm - 4:00pm

Please address all mail or correspondence to the Long Beach or Washington, DC offices.