Fill Out Your State 13215 Form

What is the purpose of the State Form 13215?

The State Form 13215 is an application used to obtain a vehicle or watercraft dealer business license in Indiana. This form captures essential information about the business, including the owner's details, the type of dealer being applied for, and the expected business operations. It ensures that businesses comply with state regulations before they can legally sell vehicles or watercraft.

What information is required to complete the application?

To complete the State Form 13215, various pieces of information must be provided. Applicants need to include the business name, federal identification number, legal address, tax identification number, and details of any insurance and bond carriers. Additionally, applicants should specify the type of dealer and the types of vehicles they intend to sell. Contact information for owners and relevant background information about them is also required.

Are there any specific requirements for the owners or partners?

Yes, all owners, partners, and corporate officers must undergo a national criminal history background check at the applicant's expense. The state may deny the application if any individual has felony or misdemeanor convictions relating to motor vehicle dealings. This helps ensure that only responsible parties are licensed to operate as dealers.

What happens if an owner has previously owned another dealership?

If any owner, partner, or officer has previously owned or worked for another dealership in Indiana or any other state, this information must be disclosed on the application. The details required include the name of the individual, the name of the dealership, and the dealership's address. Transparency about past business dealings helps to evaluate the credibility of the application.

Is zoning approval necessary for this application?

Yes, zoning approval is necessary and must be completed by the local zoning board or authority. The application includes a section where the undersigned must verify compliance with local zoning ordinances for conducting motor vehicle business at the specified address. This ensures the proposed business location adheres to local regulations.

Where can I find more information about filing fees and additional requirements?

More information about filing fees, required documents, and the application process can be found on the Secretary of State's Auto Dealer Service Division website at www.in.gov/sos/dealer. It's crucial to check this site for the most current information and ensure that all necessary documents and fees are submitted with the application.

Completing the State Form 13215 for a vehicle or watercraft dealer business license can be challenging. Many applicants make common errors that can delay the approval process. Here's a look at eight frequent mistakes.

First, applicants often forget to provide the correct Federal Identification Number (FIN). This number is crucial for tax purposes and verifies business identity. Omitting or entering an incorrect FIN will lead to immediate delays in processing.

Second, incomplete contact information is a common pitfall. Missing details like your daytime or evening telephone number can hinder communication. Ensure that all phone numbers and your email address are correct and clearly written.

Another mistake involves the legal address of the business. It should be complete, including the ZIP code and county. Inaccuracies here can cause confusion about your business location, potentially impacting zoning approvals.

Providing insufficient information about the business structure is also an issue. This includes improperly checking the type of applicant box, whether it’s a sole proprietorship, corporation, LLC, or another form. Not indicating this correctly can result in the application being deemed incomplete.

Many applicants fail to identify the types of vehicles or watercraft they plan to sell. The form asks you to select multiple options. Skipping this section or marking it incorrectly can lead to confusion about your business operations.

Additionally, neglecting to answer questions regarding any past criminal history can be detrimental. The application requires disclosures about arrests, convictions, or previous license denials. Providing this information accurately and completely is essential.

An often overlooked section is the zoning approval. Without the original ink signature from the local authority, the application can be rejected outright. This step requires proactive communication with local officials to ensure compliance with zoning ordinances.

Lastly, remember to include the application fee. Many applicants forget this crucial component, leading to return applications. Always check the fee amount on the Secretary of State's website before submitting your application.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can navigate the State Form 13215 more efficiently, ensuring a smoother licensing process for your business.

When applying for a vehicle or watercraft dealer business license using State Form 13215, there are other essential documents that you may need to submit alongside it. Here’s a quick rundown of six key forms often required in the process.

• Articles of Incorporation: This document is necessary if your business is structured as a corporation. It outlines the basic information about the corporation, including its name, purpose, and structure.
• Business License Application: In addition to State Form 13215, this local or state-required document must be filled out to operate legally within your jurisdiction, confirming that you comply with local business regulations.
• Criminal Background Check Authorization: Owners and officers must authorize a background check to examine their criminal history. This is crucial for assessing eligibility for a dealer license.
• Surety Bond: A surety bond protects consumers and ensures your compliance with regulations. Its amount depends on your location and business structure and must be submitted with your application.
• Zoning Compliance Verification: This form confirms that your business location meets local zoning laws and can conduct vehicle sales at the specified address.
• Franchise Agreements: If your business operates under a franchise, you’ll need to submit copies of your franchise agreements to the Secretary of State to validate your business operations.

Gathering these forms may seem challenging, but they are vital for a smooth application process. Ensuring you have all necessary documentation can make the difference in getting your dealer business off the ground efficiently.

The State Form 13215 is designed for individuals and businesses applying for a vehicle or watercraft dealer business license. It shares similarities with other licensing and registration documents found across various industries. Here are ten documents that can be associated with State Form 13215, detailing their similarities:

• Business License Application: Like the State Form 13215, this document is necessary for establishing a legal business presence and often requires information about ownership, business structure, and location.
• Seller’s Permit Application: Similar in purpose, this form is needed for businesses that sell goods. Both documents ask for tax identification numbers and details about the business's activities.
• Professional License Application: This document, required for certain professions (like healthcare or legal services), also includes personal information about the applicant and may require background checks, akin to the requirements in State Form 13215.
• Franchise Disclosure Document: When applying to operate under a franchise, you’ll need to submit a document detailing business operations. Both forms require transparency about business practices and ownership details.
• Tax Registration Application: This form is critical for businesses to comply with tax laws. Like State Form 13215, it requests federal and state identification numbers and information on business type.
• Alcohol Beverage License Application: Just as State Form 13215 collects data on ownership and business intent, this application requires information about how alcohol will be sold, including criminal background checks for applicants.
• Real Estate License Application: Both forms demand disclosure of personal and professional history of the applicant, ensuring credibility within legally regulated industries.
• Motor Carrier Registration: When starting a trucking business, this registration is needed. Similar to State Form 13215, it requires compliance with regulations and often asks for details on the vehicles involved.
• Nonprofit Organization Registration: This document requires disclosures about the organization’s mission, leadership, and financials, much like how State Form 13215 seeks thorough information about dealership operations and ownership.
• Building Permit Application: Before construction or renovations, applying for this permit requires information on property ownership and intended use, paralleling the request for zoning compliance in State Form 13215.

Filling out the State 13215 form can be straightforward if you keep a few things in mind. Here are nine helpful dos and don’ts to consider:

• Do check all your information for accuracy. Errors can delay your application.
• Do provide complete contact information, including daytime and evening phone numbers.
• Do ensure that you have all required documents ready before starting the application.
• Do sign the application in ink. Digital signatures may not be accepted.
• Do include a surety bond if required, along with the necessary fees.

• Don’t leave any sections blank unless instructed to do so. Missing information could lead to a rejection.
• Don’t submit an incomplete application. Ensure all supporting documents are included.
• Don’t forget to verify the zoning approval before submitting your application.
• Don’t overlook any previous criminal records. This information is essential for your application.

By following these guidelines, you'll make the application process easier and more efficient!

• Misconception 1: The State 13215 form is only for vehicle dealers.

While the form is primarily used by vehicle dealers, it also applies to watercraft dealers. When filling out the form, applicants must specify the type of license they are applying for, indicating whether they intend to deal in vehicles or watercraft, or both. This inclusivity is crucial to understanding the full scope of the licensing process.

• Misconception 2: Completing the State 13215 form guarantees a business license.

It is important to note that submitting the form does not automatically result in the issuance of a business license. The application undergoes review by the Secretary of State's office. Additionally, factors such as criminal history, compliance with local zoning ordinances, and fulfillment of all documentation requirements are considered before approval. A thorough review ensures that only eligible applicants receive a license.

• Misconception 3: All applicants fill out the same sections on the form.

The State 13215 form is tailored to accommodate various types of dealers, such as manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers. Depending on the nature of the business and the type of dealer status, different sections become relevant. Some applicants may need to provide additional information, like insurance and bond details, while others may focus on licensing specifics for their operations.

• Misconception 4: The form does not require ongoing updates or renewals.

Many individuals assume that once a license is obtained through the State 13215 form, it remains valid indefinitely. However, licenses must be renewed periodically, and all dealers are obliged to maintain accurate records. Additionally, any changes in ownership, address, or business structure necessitate updates to the Secretary of State’s office. Keeping up with these requirements is vital for compliance and continued operation.

Filling out and using the State 13215 form is an important process for individuals or entities looking to run a vehicle or watercraft dealer business in Indiana. Here are some key takeaways regarding this form:

• The form requires basic details about the business, including the name, legal address, and the federal identification number.
• Applicants must provide contact information such as telephone numbers and email addresses to ensure efficient communication.
• It's essential to identify the type of dealer license being applied for, whether for vehicles or watercraft, and to indicate the specific types of vehicles sold.
• Applicants need to specify whether they intend to buy dealer plates or interim plates, which are crucial for displaying registration legally.
• Zoning approval must be confirmed by the local zoning board or authority, as well as compliance with local ordinances.
• All owners, partners, and corporate officers must undergo a national criminal history background check to determine eligibility.
• Filing the required supplementary documents is crucial. Corporations and LLCs must provide copies of their articles of incorporation or similar filings.
• Finally, the completed application must include the appropriate fees to be considered for processing by the Secretary of State’s office.