Hi,

My friend is planning to start up a marriage bureau from home, and she was wondering if she needs to get a business licence? If yes where does she get one from?

Thanks for your help

Best wishes,

I don't know how marriage bureaus work in the UK. What exactly do they do ? If money is collected and tax charged, then yes, business license is appropriate.

Tick

Hi tickle,

Thank you for you reply, she will just introduce couples, wishing to marry, exchange contact numbers etc...

If she is not charging for this and just doing it out of the 'goodnes of her heart', I would say she doesn't need a business license, she is just a matchmaker.

Edit: She should check with her town hall, or whever licenses are granted.

Tick

If they are based in the UK there is no such thing as a "business licence" however they may need to register with other official agencies dependent on their specific circumstances. If they plan on being a sole trader then all you have to do is register with your local tax office as being self employed. If personal data is held on record they might also need to register with the Information Commissioner. For anything bigger they might need to register with companies house.

Starting a small business off in the UK is very very simple as the government actively encourages it, just so long as you make sure that you inform the relevant agencies.

You might want to contact your local Citizen advice office or Business link, both offer free advice and can point you in the right direction.

Another excellent resource is The Prices Trust, they hold free courses, help with business plans and also help with getting funding.

Hi bugmenotagain,

Thank you for your response, it was really helpful. Have a great day.

Can tell me in brief what are steps for setting up a marriage bureau. (Hindu Matrimony)

Is there a license required? In Goa , India