Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Do you hold FBI classes or seminars in other cities?

A. Our Executive Director, Frances Harder, provides seminars in other cities. Check the FBI Upcoming Events for seminars and workshops in your area. We also have our popular seminars available online.

Q. Can my company get into the D & A shows for a discounted rate?

A. Yes, if you have been a member of the FBI for the past six months you qualify to apply to D & A and to be considered for their market at a discount. All applicants are juried by D & A and the FBI does not make that decision.

Q. Can you include my line in the FBI showroom?

A. All lines represented in the FBI showroom as juried in by a panel of experts. All companies must be FBI members in order to be included.

Q. Can the FBI find me a sales representative?

A. No, we do not find sales representatives for new companies. It will require investigating and networking to find the right sales representative for each company needs.

Q. What type of Licenses do I need in order to start my own apparel company?

A. Each city and state has its own rules and it is best to call your local city hall and Chambers of Commerce to inquire, about the exact licenses needed in your area. There are, however, certain licenses that will be necessary no matter in which state or city you intend to set-up business.

  • Resale License: From the State Board of Equalization. There will be an office in your local town and you can call and apply over the phone.

  • Taxes: The IRS and the state taxing agencies produce many free publications to help you fill out your tax returns, and to answer your tax questions. All publications and forms can be ordered from:
    Internal Revenue Service
    800 829 3676
    www.ustreas.irs.gov
    FBT -Franchise Tax Board
    800-338-0505, 800-852-5711
    www.ftb.ca.gov

  • Business License: Business License from your local city hall. If you are working from the home, your fee will be minimal. The larger the company becomes, and the more personnel, the more regulations and licenses there are to apply for. When you describe the type of business you are operating from the home, remember to specify that it is to be used as an office or design studio, and that the manufacturing will be done elsewhere. It is illegal to sew from your home for commercial sales. You must have a Manufacturers license in the State of California and New York.

  • Employer Identification Number: All businesses must have an Employer Identification Number (abbreviated as an EIN). If you are the sole proprietor, and are the only employee, it is possible to use your own Social Security Number as your EIN. However it is strongly recommended to obtain a separate EIN, because your future activities may require one. For example; if you hire other employees, you must have an EIN. The EIN is free. To request an EIN application contact the IRS by telephone, mail or fax and ask for a SS-4 Form.

  • Registration Number: The R.N. number is used to identify the garment’s manufacturer. www.FTC.GOV Garment Manufacturing License Obtained from the Department of Labor. This license is required of all apparel manufacturing businesses in California and New York State. They require an annual fee of $750 to $2,500 dependent on the size of the company. Proof of workers’ compensation insurance is also required. The owner of the company must sign this application, and must take a brief test on labor laws. It is law that a manufacturer must obtain this license before they begin to manufacture. If you have not obtained this license and you are a manufacturer you will be subject to fines and confiscation of your goods.

  • Public Health License: Obtained from the County Department of Public Health Services. All garment manufacturers require this license for employees. This license is renewed June 30 of each year with payment of an annual fee. Insurance Issues When doing business from the home, it is a good idea to talk to your insurance agent to inquire about special issues pertaining to a home office.

Q. What classes or seminars does the FBI hold?

A. Please check the Upcoming Events section of our website.

Q. Do I need to be a member to receive help or referrals?

A. Although the FBI is membership based with discounted classes and seminars, plus many other important services (see membership benefits), non-members are able to take classes and enjoy most of the services without the discounted rate.

Q. What will the FBI do for me?

A. The FBI has developed specific seminars and classes to educate and explain the many aspects of the apparel industry. The FBI has resources and networking opportunities that introduce new and small business to consultants specific to their companies needs.

Q. What is the FBI?

A. The Fashion Business Inc. is an educational non-profit organization, that has programs and services to assist new apparel manufacturers and small minority-owned business.

Q. How do I start my own company?

A. Starting your own company requires research and funds. Begin by understanding the industry. It is a very complicated and demanding industry with some amazing success stories that tempt people to enter it with their own designs. If you need basic information there should be some free help available in your area SBA, SBDC has programs to help new companies. Useful place to start: www.fashionforprofit.com will explain the A-to-Z's of starting your own apparel manufacturing company.