Local Business Tax

July 22, 2019 - By Angel Allison

<p>Most state laws require all individuals or firms located in or doing business within their jurisdiction to create an account and pay an annual Local Business Tax. This includes one person companies and home-based businesses.</p> <p>The receipt (previously called an &lsquo;Occupational License&rsquo;) should be conspicuously displayed, essentially represents that the local County business has paid their business taxes to the government entity for the selected year. There are notable penalties and fees for businesses that do not declare and report their business tax.</p> <p>To register and pay your business tax be sure to do the following:</p> <ul> <li>Check with your County Tax Collector to see if there is a specific license required for your business;</li> <li>Register your business with the Department of Revenue;</li> <li>Register with the IRS;</li> <li>Corporate entities or fictitious names registrants should also register with the Department of State.</li> </ul> <p>Once the requirements above are completed, you should be able to submit your application/registration for your business tax account with the County.</p> <p>County Business Tax Receipts are paid annually July 1 through September 30<sup>th</sup>, and you may pay additional penalties if not paid by September 30<sup>th</sup>. The fees are based on the type of business, profession and occupation, and amounts range from $33 to $315.<br /><br />If your business is located in or operates within the boundaries of a city, you will also typically be required to obtain a City Business Tax License. The requirements for this differ by city, so you will need to contact your local city to determine your specific requirements.</p> <br />When you do not pay or renew your Business Tax, you may be subject to the following enforcement actions:<br /><br /> <ul> <li>The Tax Collector posting a notice on your place of business;</li> <li>Paying additional fees and penalties;</li> <li>Paying substantial fines;</li> <li>Appearing in court before a Special Magistrate.</li> </ul>