My town requires a $35 business permit from the city. I also had to get a tax license (free) from the state before I could apply for the permit. I haven't done anything on commission yet. I know someone who sells homemade candles in a local gift. She pays 20% commission.

I think it would depend on your own area, what the
rules are. You would not have to give your name to
to call and find out.
20% seems fair.

Around here - comission goes from 15% - 20% .
We also have to buy a seller's permit. At the end of the year - you have to report your sales . Here - if it's under a certain amount - - you don't have to pay anything.

If you are doing business, then yes, you need a business liscence. No matter what area you are in, you need a liscence.

You also need to collect taxes. For that you will need a federal tax id that is issued by the IRS -- check irs.gov

BUT, you could use your SS number if you are being your own business -- where you would file your business stuff under your personal taxes.

Your profile says you're in Ohio right? You'll want to check the Ohio Department of Revenue at http://tax.ohio.gov/

But, you'll need to tell them how you're doing it because you'll be a wholesaler and the actual location will be the one to collect the tax for you...

Don't worry about contacting them -- it's their job to help you :)

Here is a link that might be useful: My Free 5 Page Website