If you've started your own home based business, you'll probably have to register it with your state. This involves filling out a simple form and paying a fee of anywhere from $25 to $200 depending on your state's fee structure. Some states also require you to place an announcement in your local paper. The procedure is easiest for Sole Proprietors and gets a little more complex if you are registering a Partnership. Check with your local county clerk's office or your state's website. You'll receive a certificate of registration. Keep it in a safe place. You'll need a copy of it to open up a business or DBA ("doing business as") account at your bank. You can find all the forms you'll need at Blumburg. Just pick your state and go! It feels really good to have that certificate and be "official!"