Do i need to start a corporation to get a business license?

I started my own business on the side and just got my first client. He just signed up for my marketing service at $2,000/mo. and he is paying by check. I hardly had any money to start the company and therefore never filed an llc or got a business license. I put my money in designing the website, getting a virtual office, and leads. Now that I have my first check made out to the company how can I cash it??? I think I can do it with a business license from the local courthouse, correct me if I am wrong. or do I need to start a llc to even get the license. I really just need someone to tell me what to do, If I have to file the corp to cash the check I will, I am just looking to cut costs until I have tht check deposited so I can pay for the llc. Thank you

I did consulting as a sole proprietorship. I just had the check made out to me. If I have a business name like "The Web Site Consults" and the check is made payable to it, endorse the check with your name and DBA the company name.
Example:
Jeff Jones
DBA The Web Site Consults

You may want to invest in registering your trade name (the name of your business) at the state capital. They can explain the process.

There maybe valid reasons for a corporation, but from what you have posted, you are not REQUIRED to incorporate.

You may not even need a business license, but check the local laws.

Legally, you need to start a corporation / company in order to get a business license. And secondly, if you want to cash in this check, then you need to open a company account with a local bank. The bank will requires you to submit some documents regards to your company registration, etc. So at the end you need to register a corporation if the check is made to the name of your company if not it is basically a piece of worthless paper if you can't cash in.

I got my business license from the chamber of commerce. My business was in town if out of of town I don't know but am sure the chamber of commerce in your town can help you find it.