Do I need to register my business to operate in Massachusetts?

Yes, almost all new businesses will need to register with the Massachusetts Department of Revenue in order to legally operate in the state. Many cities also require that businesses register with them in order to operate within city limits.

Are there any state licensing requirements?

There is no one state business license that all businesses must have, but Massachusetts does require special occupational licenses for individuals and businesses operating in several different occupational categories. For these licenses, the requirements and application procedures are determined by the relevant state licensing board. In addition to state requirements, many county and city governments also require that businesses obtain local occupational licenses in order to operate within the county or city limits.

CLICK THE LINK TO YOUR CITY BELOW TO APPLY FOR A BUSINESS LICENSE

Boston	Brockton	Cambridge
Chicopee	Haverhill	Lawrence
Lowell	Medford	Newton
Quincy	Somerville	Springfield

Are there any state requirements my business must meet besides getting a business license?

For businesses with employees, Massachusetts requires that all businesses provide their employees with workers' compensation insurance which businesses attest to by filing a special affidavit with the Department of Industrial Accidents. You must also register with the Division of Unemployment Assistance in order to pay unemployment tax as required by state law.

Are there any local licensing requirements?

Local regulations vary throughout the state, but similar to the state government, most cities require certain businesses and professional occupations to obtain special occupational licenses in order to conduct business in the city.

What information do I need to provide in order to register or get a business license?

Most registration applications in Massachusetts are quite uniform. You will need to provide the business' full name, address, contact information, and the names of any owners and have the application notarized. Applications for occupational licenses vary depending on the profession and the requirements of the respective licensing board.

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