Each state requires all businesses to be registered and have a valid, up-to-date business license before any services are provided and before any invoicing or payments. Each state also has its own fees, restrictions, and requirements. In some states, just a single state license is enough. Other states require local county or city licenses in addition to the state license. The Small Business Administration (SBA) has a resource-intensive website with many valuable links and tutorials. They also fund programs in each state that provide free business consulting and mentoring. Search for your local SCORE (Service Corp Of Retired Executives), SBDC (Small Business Development Center), or Women’s Business Center (WBC). The Women’s Business Center helps anyone, not just women. In addition to free business counseling, they also have classes and local events. They can even help new businesses access the necessary capital they need. While these are federal programs funded by tax dollars, you do not need to be a US citizen to use these resources.