The Governor’s Office of Regulatory Reform’s Business Permit Assistance program is a resource where prospective business owners can find out what they need to do to comply with New York State’s permit and licensing requirements.   Licenses and permits from federal, state, and local governments give business entities the authority to carry on specific business activities.  Your business may be subject to licensing by one or all levels of government. The Governor’s Office of Regulatory Reform plays a vital role for business owners by providing compliance information, forms and contacts. 

How We Can Help:

• Use our interactive Online Permit Assistance and Licensing (OPAL) website. OPAL guides users through the process and requirements for starting or expanding a business in New York State.  Additionally, users can obtain a state Tax ID Number and a Federal Employer Identification Number, track the status of submitted online applications, research a comprehensive list of NYS permit profiles with information on over 1,200 business-related permits and licenses issued by 36 state agencies, and research requirements for over 400 types of businesses.
  
  
• Contact us by telephone, listen to our automated 24-hour telephone system with pre-recorded information on topics related to business start-up, or email us with your questions.  Business Information Specialists provide free, personalized assistance to help identify and obtain NYS business licenses or permits needed to operate a business through our Customer Service Call Center.  Specialists are available weekdays 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. to answer your business start-up questions.  
  
  
• Receive a Permit Assistance Kit (PAK).  This customized packet consists of a checklist of applicable requirements and supplemental materials, along with application forms, instruction booklets, and contact information tailored to your business activities.  Or, prepare your own PAK through the OPAL website.
  
  
• Review our Starting a Business brochure on the publications page.  This brochure contains general filing information for starting a business in New York.  It is a quick reference guide providing basic information on business structures, tax requirements, and employer responsibilities.