Any small or large business considering opening a company or locating in New Hampshire should consult New Hampshire attorneys and learn about unique laws in New Hampshire. For example, New Hampshire has no personal income tax or sales tax, yet does collect property tax, restaurant and hotel tax and tax on motor vehicle rentals. You will need to understand New Hampshire state law for business start-ups in the areas of licensing requirements and fees, business taxes, employer registration, worker’s compensation, health and labor laws, OSHA compliance, etc. Established in 1629 and part of the original 13 colonies, New Hampshire prides itself in its “Live Free or Die” philosophy. When starting a business, remember these tips: Normal 0 MicrosoftInternetExplorer4

1. Access the many available agencies to learn about New Hampshire law.
2. Consult lawyers in New Hampshire to get advice on which state government regulations apply to your small business.
3. Keep track of proposed legislation or revised statutes pertaining to business in New Hampshire.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find a New Hampshire law firm to help your business navigate state laws

Before opening a business in New Hampshire, consult a state attorney to learn about business law in NH. Consult New Hampshire attorneys and resources for information on small business rules and regulations, business entities, incorporation and sole proprietorships, labor laws, taxation, investment options, employee management, bankruptcy law, acquisitions, debt collection, compliance assistance, copyrights and the like.

I recommend: To read about New Hampshire state law, visit Revised Statutes Online. To find New Hampshire Law Firms, visit Lawyers.com.

Conduct research on law in New Hampshire

Legal reference material, information and research are available in New Hampshire law libraries and state agencies. Find out about NH law by consulting legal databases, seeking out New Hampshire law firms, calling city hall, contacting the Secretary of State, researching labor issues and searching online for New Hampshire state law and regulations.

I recommend: Concord, NH, is the capital of the state and houses the New Hampshire Law Library, the only public law library in the state. The only president to come from New Hampshire, Franklin Pierce, lends his name to the Franklin Pierce Law Center. Check out the New Hampshire Secretary of State for information on starting a business in New Hampshire.

Look for agencies that help citizens understand New Hampshire law

New Hampshire agencies offer legal services and web sites for finding a New Hampshire lawyer. Low income residents deserve the same access to justice and legal representation as those who can afford to pay. New Hampshire Legal Services offers a directory with legal advice and referrals, legal assistance, and pro bono options.

I recommend: To find a New Hampshire attorney or learn about New Hampshire legal services available to the public, visit the New Hampshire Bar Association. For legal advice and options, go to New Hampshire Legal Services.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Learn about New Hampshire state laws to ensure your new business is fully compliant.
• •  Follow up on new developments in NH law and regulations to stay current.
• •  Communicate with state representatives to make your voice heard.