Selling Food from Home in Idaho: What You Need to Know

Can you sell food from your home in Idaho?
Q. Are cottage foods legal to sell in Idaho? Yes and they have been legal to sell for many years in Idaho. This means that neither the local Public Health District nor the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare require a cottage food producer to obtain a food establishment permit or license.
Read more on www.cdhd.idaho.gov

If you enjoy baking or cooking and live in Idaho, you might be wondering if it’s legal for you to sell your homemade goods on the side. The short answer is yes, but there are a few key guidelines you’ll need to adhere to in order to conduct yourself lawfully and securely.

It’s crucial to remember that any food item sold in Idaho must adhere to state laws governing food safety. It follows that you must make sure your kitchen complies with all applicable health and safety regulations and that your food is prepared and stored in a way that reduces the possibility of contamination or decomposition. Before you begin selling your food, you must also obtain the essential permits and licenses from municipal or state authorities.

Selling your home-made food products online via a platform like Shopify is one option. However, it’s crucial to keep in mind that even if you sell your goods online, you’ll still need to abide by all of the same laws and guidelines that apply to sales made in person. This can entail obtaining an Idaho seller’s permit or sales tax license.

There are various procedures you must follow if you want to launch your own food-related business in Idaho. You must first create a business strategy outlining your objectives, target market, and financial estimates. Additionally, you’ll need to select a business form (such a corporation, LLC, or sole proprietorship), register your company with the state, and acquire any necessary licenses or permissions.

It’s critical to remember that selling your goods without paying taxes is both unethical and illegal. Every business must pay taxes on its income, and trying to do so might result in harsh fines and legal repercussions. Instead, concentrate on finding legal ways to reduce your taxes, such as by utilizing the deductions and credits offered to small business owners.

The procedure may differ based on your area and the kind of business you’re launching if you’re asking how to get a business license in Idaho. Generally speaking, you must file a company registration with the Idaho Secretary of State, receive any appropriate permissions or licenses from local or state authorities, and adhere to all rules and laws that may be in force. To make sure you’re fulfilling all of your legal responsibilities as a business owner, it’s always a good idea to speak with an attorney or accountant.

FAQ
How much should I set aside for taxes as a sole proprietor?

You should set aside around 15.3% of your net income as a sole owner selling food out of your house in Idaho, which includes paying Social Security and Medicare taxes. Depending on your income, you might also be required to pay state and federal income taxes. To calculate your precise tax liabilities, it is advised that you speak with a tax expert.