The Yucca Valley Chamber of Commerce wants you to know that we stand behind you 100%, and that we're here for you!

Once the decision is made to start your own business, excitement and fear may overcome you. There is a great deal to look forward to and many things to accomplish. This page is dedicated to helping you get started and becoming successful in your new business venture.

Disclaimer. You will find information on licenses, permits, taxes, financing and other on-line sources of information. This information is generic in nature and is not directed towards any one business type. The information and links to various websites are provided for your convenience. The information on this website is frequently updated, however, there may be omissions or additional requirements not represented here. This is unintentional and does not exempt any individual or institution from complying with the laws and regulations of the State of California and the federal government. Inclusion of links to other websites is not an endorsement of those sites by the State of California or the federal government.

Before You Get Started

After you have decided to open a business you should first develop a working business plan. Although this may now seem unnecessary, it will provide you with a roadmap for success and it will be necessary should you ever seek financing. You can search the internet for various examples of a business plan; an excellent site for developing your plan is located at the US Small Business Administration website.

The first step is filing your new company name. Discussed earlier, your "doing business as..." statement must be provided to the public in print and it also must be filed with San Bernardino county. The Hi-Desert Star newspaper in Yucca Valley has the forms you will need to complete both requirements. They will run the DBA statement in the local paper and will file it with the county for you. You may, if you choose to, run your DBA statement in any authorized newspaper in San Bernardino County.

Next comes the bank. To open a business checking account the bank will require you to show proof that a DBA statement has been filed. Some will accept the initial filing paperwork while others may require you to have the county-endorsed statement with you.

Prior to selling or leasing any tangible property, other than your own personal property, you must first possess a California Resale Permit. There is no charge for the permit and it is easy to get. The local field office for the Board of Equalization is located in Rancho Mirage at 42-700 Bob Hope Drive, Suite 301 and their telephone number is (760) 346-8096.

You should seek professional advice on legal matters such as copyrights and trademarks if you will be dealing with the property, to include intellectual propery, of others. Additionally you should seek professional advice on setting up your books. A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) can save you a great deal of time and headache in the long run. Not only does the CPA do your "books" but they can also act as a financial/business advisor.