Registering your salon or independent stylist business as an LLC, S-corporation, or sole proprietorship with the MA Secretary of the Commonwealth.

Who needs it

Booth-rental stylists (sole prop or LLC), salon owners (LLC or S-corp recommended). Required for hiring employees, opening a business bank account, and protecting personal assets.

How to get it

File with the MA Secretary of the Commonwealth Corporations Division. Get a federal EIN from the IRS (free, instant). Register for MA workers' comp through a private carrier and MA unemployment insurance through DUA (if you have employees).

Cost

LLC filing: ~$500. DBA: ~$50–$100 at city hall. EIN: free. Workers' comp: $400–$2,000/yr depending on team size.

Where to start

MA Secretary of the Commonwealth — Corporations ↗IRS — Get an EIN ↗