QUESTION:

what kind of licenses and other things do I need to start a grocery business.I am looking to buy salvaged grocery items and wondering what kind of license I need for the state of KY.

neil, in

ANSWER:

Hi neil: Here is what you need for starting your
business in .

🛒

✅ Licenses & Permits Checklist

Business Registration (DBA, LLC, or Corporation)
Seller’s Permit (Sales Tax ID)
Employer Identification Number (EIN)
Local Business License
Food Establishment Permit
Salvaged Food Handling License (if applicable)
Health Department Permit
Zoning Compliance Verification

📋 Business Basics

A DBA registers your trade name, but forming an LLC or Corporation shields your assets. The Seller’s Permit lets you collect sales tax, while an EIN is your business’s Social Security number for taxes and hiring.

🍎 Food-Specific Must-Haves

A Food Establishment Permit is non-negotiable for selling groceries. If you’re dealing with salvaged items, some states require a Salvaged Food License to ensure safety. The Health Department will inspect your storage and handling.

🏢 Location Logistics

Before stocking shelves, confirm Zoning Compliance—your space must be approved for retail. Some cities tack on a Local Business License for good measure. Obtain all licenses and registrations here online. 🚀Grocery business is a great business to start. You will need a business license and also need to choose your type of business tax structure. For instance, you could file as an LLc or partnership. Selling Grocery items IS a taxable event and in such case, you will need to obtain a resale license also called a seller's permit and that includes a resale certificate. Partnerships, LLCs, Corporations, independent contractors, and employers need a federal employer ID. Employers also need a state employer EIN. Grocery business that form an LLC need to file and obtain an LLC certificate and if filing as a sole owner or partnership must also file a DBA assumed business name.

878

REGISTER YOUR BUSINESS ONLINE

IMPORTANT:

First select your business entity. Entities: Sole Proprietor, LLC, Corporation or Partnership.

All Businesses , Regardless of Type, Need a Business License.

All Businesses Using a Trade Name, Need a DBA

Retailers/Wholesalers, Need a Seller's Permit.

Employers Need a Federal Tax Id Number EIN State Tax Number EIN.

Corporations, & LLCs Need a Federal Tax Id Number.

Partnerships Need a Federal Tax Id Number and a DBA.

Sole Proprietors Can Use a Federal Tax Id Number as a Business Tax ID.

Instead of filing a DBA, You Can Incorporate or form an LLC