Amazon has become the world’s largest online marketplace, hosting millions of sellers and reaching customers in almost every country. While many start as individuals, serious Amazon sellers eventually need to register a business to gain credibility, access tax benefits, and expand internationally. Proper business registration is not only a legal requirement in many cases but also a key step toward building a sustainable e-commerce brand.
This guide provides an in-depth explanation of how Amazon sellers can register their business, the types of structures available, country-specific considerations, tax obligations, and best practices for long-term growth.
1. Why Business Registration Matters for Amazon Sellers
Selling on Amazon without registering a business may be possible initially, but it comes with limitations.
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Professional Image: Registered businesses appear more trustworthy to customers.
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Amazon Requirements: Amazon often requires tax IDs or business documentation for sellers.
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Legal Protection: Business structures like LLCs limit personal liability.
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Tax Benefits: Allows deductions for expenses and structured accounting.
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Global Expansion: International marketplaces may require business registration to sell.
2. Choosing the Right Business Structure
The ideal structure depends on your country, business goals, and tax strategy.
Sole Proprietorship
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Easiest to set up, but no legal separation between you and the business.
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Suitable for small sellers starting out.
Limited Liability Company (LLC)
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Popular in the US and other countries.
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Protects personal assets from business debts.
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Flexible taxation options.
Corporation (C-Corp or S-Corp)
Partnerships
Each structure comes with different levels of cost, taxation, and protection.
3. Country-Specific Business Registration for Amazon Sellers
United States
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Most sellers register an LLC or Sole Proprietorship.
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Requires an EIN (Employer Identification Number) for taxes.
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Amazon verifies identity with documents such as utility bills and IDs.
United Kingdom
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Options include Sole Trader, Limited Company, or Partnership.
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Register with Companies House for Limited Companies.
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VAT registration may be required depending on revenue.
European Union
UAE & Middle East
Asia (India, Japan, China)
4. Steps to Register a Business for Amazon
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Choose a Business Structure – Decide between sole proprietorship, LLC, or corporation.
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Register Your Business Name – Make sure it is unique and fits branding.
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Obtain a Tax ID – EIN (US), VAT (EU/UK), GST (India), etc.
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Open a Business Bank Account – Keep finances separate from personal accounts.
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Get Business Licenses – Some products require specific permits.
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Register for Taxes – Compliance with local and international tax obligations.
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Prepare Documentation for Amazon – Utility bills, IDs, business certificates.
5. Tax Obligations for Amazon Sellers
Taxes are one of the most critical parts of selling on Amazon.
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Sales Tax / VAT / GST: Depending on the marketplace region, sellers must register for and collect taxes.
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Income Tax: Profits must be reported annually.
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Marketplace Facilitator Laws: In some regions (like the US), Amazon collects and remits sales tax on behalf of sellers.
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Double Taxation Treaties: Important for international sellers to avoid paying taxes twice.
6. Banking and Payment Setup
To operate globally, Amazon sellers need a reliable payment system.
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Business Bank Account: Essential for separating finances.
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Global Payment Solutions: Wise Business, Payoneer, and WorldFirst allow receiving Amazon payouts in multiple currencies.
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Currency Conversion Fees: Choose solutions that minimize FX costs.
7. Protecting Your Brand with Registration
In addition to business registration, sellers should also register their brand.
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Trademark Registration: Needed for Amazon Brand Registry.
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Brand Registry Benefits: Enhanced brand content, protection against counterfeiters, and better visibility.
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Global Trademark: WIPO Madrid System allows international protection.
8. Compliance and Legal Considerations
Amazon sellers must comply with both Amazon’s rules and government regulations.
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Product Compliance: Some categories require FDA, CE, or safety certifications.
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Import/Export Laws: Know customs regulations for cross-border shipping.
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Insurance: Amazon requires liability insurance for professional sellers exceeding certain revenue.
9. Common Mistakes Amazon Sellers Make
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Starting without a registered business and facing tax issues later.
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Using a personal bank account instead of a business account.
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Ignoring VAT or GST compliance.
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Not protecting their brand with a trademark.
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Expanding too quickly without understanding local laws.
10. Best Practices for Startups
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Register Early: Even small sellers should formalize their business.
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Plan for Growth: Choose a structure that scales with your revenue.
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Keep Records: Accurate accounting is critical for tax compliance.
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Use Professionals: Hire accountants or consultants for complex markets.
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Focus on Branding: Long-term success depends on building a recognizable brand.