Registering a business in Jamaica is much easier now than ever. Owning a business is a dream of many but only a few actually take the plunge - win, lose, or draw. Some businesses started out as a hobby, others were just a hustle - a means to an end. Either way, if you exchange goods or services for money, you are running a business. If you are trading or operating in a name other than your name (e.g. Mama D's Bakery or On Track Taxi), then you need to register your business name. This allows you to secure your business name so others can't operate with the same name. It helps to create consumer confidence and allows for the opening of a bank account in the business name. It will also enable you to obtain loans, grants, and contracts. But how do you go about registering your business?

Assuming you have established a name for your business, you will need to verify that the name is available and no other business is trading with the same name. A name search will need to be done with the Companies Office of Jamaica to determine if you may go ahead to register your business name. Once that name is available, you will need to visit the office with the following:

The completed Business Registration Form (BRF 1)

Proof of address (Driver's Licence or Utility Bill)

Tax Registration Number (TRN)

Professional Certificate if applicable (eg. Dentists, Lawyers, etc.)

Registration Fee of $2,500 Jamaican Dollars

The registration process can be completed within one day and you will be provided with a certificate of registration which is valid for 3 years. It is renewable every three years.

Now you can focus on growing your business but don't forget that as a registered entity you are responsible to file your tax returns.

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