Do i need a business license in tn. Aug 15, 2025 · How to Apply for a Business License in Tennessee Simplify obtaining your Tennessee business license. Where do I get a Business License in Blount County ? The Blount County, TN County Clerk provides an application for a Business license on the County Clerk's Online Services webpage. All inquiries regarding CLE matters should be referred to the Tennessee Commission on Continuing Legal Education. Types of Licenses issued by the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors. Tennessee has a state Business Tax that applies to almost every company doing business in Tennessee. Oct 17, 2023 · Tennessee requires businesses to have a general business license at the state level. Tennessee is a great place to start a new business. A Tennessee contractor's license is required first prior to bidding, contracting or offering a price to perform work! A Contractor's license is required for projects $25,000 or more, when acting as one of the following: Aug 26, 2025 · Register for Taxes If your business sells goods or services subject to sales tax, register with the Tennessee Department of Revenue to obtain a state tax ID. Business licenses are issued by the county clerk and city official (if the city imposes business tax) of the county and city in which the business is located. Some types of businesses such as food establishments may need to obtain additional permits besides the general business license and submit to inspection before opening. The Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) issues many different alcoholic beverages related licenses to qualified applicants depending on the nature of the business or organization. The Tennessee "Business and Law" exam is required by all contractor license applicants. The request must include the following: The Tennessee Secretary of State control number Legal name of the business as listed on the Tennessee Secretary of State record Indicate the desired documents Contact information for the requester The name and address where the documents Attorney License Information The Board's Registration Department is responsible for managing all matters regarding a Tennessee attorney's law license with the exception of continuing legal education (CLE) matters and admission to practice law in Tennessee. Knox County Business Licenses (Tennessee) Access essential resources for business licenses in Knox County, TN. Under the Tennessee Business Tax Act most businesses, vocations, and occupations operating within the City of Franklin are required to obtain a business license from both the City of Franklin as well as Williamson County and report gross receipts to the TN Department of Revenue on a yearly basis. He also serves on 16 boards and commissions, on two of which he is the presiding member. AAA members can save money at places where you may already shop, dine and visit. Standard business license holders must create an account with the State of Tennessee, Department of Revenue, prior to filing a business tax return electronically. The different types of Liquor-by-the-Drink Licenses are listed on the left or you can refer to the table below. These savings include discounts on restaurants, eyewear, laptops, appliances, gas, car rentals, hotels, and tickets to attractions, concerts, movies and sporting events. A lease agreement that is signed, dated and notarized as is applicable. Obtain a business license Davidson County Clerk Contact Information Address Howard Office Building 700 President Ronald Reagan Way Suite 101, Davidson County Clerk Nashville, TN 37210 Jul 22, 2025 · A Sole Proprietorship is an informal structure with one business owner. Aug 14, 2025 · Federal licenses and permits Most small businesses need a combination of licenses and permits from both federal and state agencies. May 11, 2023 · BUS-13 - Business Licenses - Overview Every business in Tennessee with business taxable receipts of over $3,000 must obtain a business license. With a few exceptions, all businesses that sell goods or services must pay the state business tax. Contact CT Corporation for a free consultation. 2 days ago · WMC Action News 5 leads the Mid-South in breaking news and weather for Memphis, Germantown, Collierville, Bartlett, Olive Branch, Southaven and West Memphis. Business tax consists of two separate taxes: the state business tax and the city business tax. Access Social Security services online, including applying for benefits, checking applications, and managing your information conveniently and securely. Find essential forms and resources for Tennessee business tax requirements on this page. Aug 25, 2025 · Yes, almost all businesses operating in Tennessee will need one of two state-administered business tax licenses: either the minimal activity license or the standard business license. Businesses with taxable sales of $10,000 or more need a statewide business license, while businesses with taxable sales of more than $3,000 but less than $10,000 require a minimal activity license. The type of license needed and the corresponding fee depends on the type of business you do and the amount of revenue it brings in. Oct 17, 2023 · Your Tennessee business might need a general business license, professional license, sales tax certificate, zoning permits, and assumed name registration. Secretary Hargett is the chief executive officer of the Department of State with oversight of more than 300 employees. Do you need to submit a Notary Public License in Grand Junction, TN? Find out with a business license compliance package or upgrade for professional help. You can further drill down to your city to better understand all of your business license and permit requirements. Oct 15, 2025 · Learn how to get a business license in Tennessee and what’s required to maintain it. This requirement is in place to ensure that businesses comply with Tennessee Business License Do you have a solid business plan and want to turn it into a reality? Are you interested in starting your business in Tennessee and are in need of accurate information about how to get your work authorized by the state? The Tennessee "Business and Law" exam is required by all contractor license applicants. Find videos and news articles on the latest stories in the US. Here you'll find valuable info on how to get started. Contractors, Home Improvement (HI), Electrician - Limited Licensed Electrician (LLE), Plumber - Limited Licensed Plumber (LLP), HVAC - See Electrician or Contractor The mission of the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors is to protect the public health, safety and welfare through the regulation of contractors, home improvement contractors, limited licensed electricians, and limited licensed plumbers. The Williamson County Clerk is a Tennessee constitutionally elected official who serves the residents of Williamson County for a four-year term. Most businesses are subject to the state's franchise and excise tax and may also need to register with the Tennessee Secretary of State. What education do I need to be a real estate agent? The education required to become a real estate agent is regulated by each state and can vary. This page links to official websites and search portals. Jul 8, 2025 · You don’t need a general business license in the state of Tennessee, but you need to apply for specific business licenses and permits if you operate in an industry that requires it. All inquiries regarding Secretary of State Tre Hargett Tre Hargett was elected by the Tennessee General Assembly to serve as Tennessee’s 37th secretary of state in 2009 and re-elected in 2013, 2017, 2021, and 2025. For Contractors & Home Improvement, a Tennessee license is first needed before offering to perform or bid work. We’re redesigning the Tennessee Department of Health’s website to improve accessibility and user experience. A standard business license is needed from your county and/or municipal clerk if your gross receipts are $100,000* or more. Business activities regulated by a federal agency will need a federal license or permit. This exam is open book and you may obtain the "NASCLA Contractors Guide to Business, Law and Project Management" manual from one of the bookstores listed above or most professional book stores online. License issuance takes 4 to 6 weeks. Contractors, Home Improvement (HI), Electrician - Limited Licensed Electrician (LLE), Plumber - Limited Licensed Plumber (LLP), HVAC - See Electrician or Contractor Let Us Handle Your Printing Need professional, high-quality printing for your business. In the state of Tennessee, businesses are required to obtain a business license in order to legally conduct commercial activities. Do you need to submit a Business License in Grand Junction, TN? Find out with a business license compliance package or upgrade for professional help. Jan 9, 2025 · Although Tennessee doesn’t have a general business license requirement, you do have to register with the Department of Revenue. You can find business license applications, check the status, and verify licenses for sole proprietorships. Aug 21, 2024 · What do I need to apply? Microloans are available through certain nonprofit, community-based organizations that are experienced in lending and business management assistance. Once you register for business tax, please contact the individual county and/or municipal clerk to arrange for payment of this required fee and to obtain your business license. After reading the information outlined below, direct your questions accordingly: For questions regarding tax law, filing or paying business taxes, call 1-800-342-1003. The relaunch of a new TDH website is expected in early 2026. Individual requirements will vary. com. Don't forget that if you're providing services in more than one jurisdiction in Tennessee, you will need to review your Welcome to the Tennessee Smart Start Guide, a general guide for small businesses and entrepreneurs, future and present. A good start is by reviewing and printing the application package, as listed below: Contractor's License Application Package Apply Online at: https://core. Small businesses make up the majority of all the companies in Tennessee and are the backbone of our state’s economy. You are not allowed to operate until your required license is obtained and posted in your business’ location. Get the necessary forms, understand filing requirements, and explore directories of new businesses. A contractor that does not have a location or domicile in Tennessee and has taxable gross receipts in the state of less than $100,000 per county is exempt from the business tax and does not need to register for business tax or obtain a business license. 1. It typically includes specific pre-licensing real estate courses as well as continuing education requirements to renew and maintain your real estate salesperson license. Well water inspection approval from local Health Department or Spring water approval from Tennessee Environment and Conservation if not from municipal source. The Request for Copy of Documents form may be submitted to the Secretary of State via mail, in person or online. Follow the links to find more information about a specific type of Liquor-by-the-Drink license. This means that, if you are considering opening a new business or are beginning to make sales in Tennessee for the first time, you will need to determine your business' permit requirements. Tennessee Department of State Secretary of State Tre Hargett Tre Hargett was elected by the Tennessee General Assembly to serve as Tennessee’s 37th secretary of state in 2009 and re-elected in 2013, 2017, 2021, and 2025. Feb 26, 2024 · Tennessee Business License and Permit Fees (varies) Depending on where your LLC does business in Tennessee and the industry you’re in, you may need to obtain additional Business Licenses or Permits. Jan 9, 2025 · Your Tennessee LLC may need to obtain a business license or permit. Sep 2, 2025 · In Tennessee, all businesses that generate more than $3,000 in annual gross receipts are required to obtain a general business license, called a Business Tax License in the state. Registration for business tax using this application will not be complete until you have paid the business license fee and obtained your business license from the appropriate county clerk and, if applicable, your city business tax official. The County Clerk has many important functions, such as: · County Commission Meeting Duties o Prepare Commission Meeting packets o Advertise and send required notices for Meetings and Resolutions Business Tax is classified as a privilege tax for the right to do business within the counties and cities of Tennessee. To run your business legally and safely in Tennessee, you’ll need a business license or Business License Tax for every city or county where you operate — read more. Feb 11, 2026 · There is NO statewide general business license requirement in Tennessee. Step 1 (Testing - Exam and Reciprocal Information) [All must pass the "Business and Law" exam] Step 2 (Financial Statement) Step 3 (Reference Letter and Insurance) Step 4 (Corporations. This guide covers understanding requirements, preparing documents, and submitting your application. LLC's and Partnerships - Registration with Secretary of State) Step 5 (Application, Signatures, and Notarize) Step 6 (Submit Application & $250 fee) Feb 20, 2014 · How to Become a Licensed Contractor The following provides a resource of information for applying for a Tennessee contractor's license. He also serves on 16 boards and commissions, on two of Under the Tennessee Business Tax Act most businesses, vocations, and occupations operating within Hamilton County, TN are required to obtain a business license and annually report their gross receipts to the Tennessee Department of Revenue. Reciprocal agreements do NOT allow using another state's license in Tennessee, but provides a trade exam waiver, only. Join today and immediately start using AAA discounts when you shop across more than 100,000 discount partners. Business License/Tax Office 865-215-2083 This office handles business licenses, permits, and taxes. Business Tax License Information The following information is intended to inform you of Business Taxes in general, and is not designed to completely address all laws and regulations. Search by EIN, company name, or address and access verified details instantly. . Here’s a general breakdown: Type of Business Below, we’ve detailed common ways in which your business type can dictate the licenses you’ll be required to obtain, as well as specific examples of these: Business Tax Licenses: Almost Do you need a Tennessee business license? Learn how to register for a business license in Tennessee, application process, requirements, cost, and documents required to obtain a TN business license. Jun 13, 2023 · To start a sole proprietorship in Tennessee, you'll need to register your business name, apply for the required licenses and permits, and obtain an EIN. Because of that, you have NO state-level application process or renewal requirements. To apply for a SEVIER COUNTY Business License, the business must reside in Sevier County. Verify licenses, permits, or registrations for individuals and businesses in Tennessee with the public search tool provided by the Department of Commerce & Insurance. Do you need to submit a Lobbying License in Grand Junction, TN? Find out with a business license compliance package or upgrade for professional help. You’ll likely need a general business or professional license specific to operating a medical practice from your local government or municipality. Explore Local Business License Requirements in Tennessee Explore your local licensing authority requirements by clicking on your county in the list below. You can start a Sole Proprietorship in Tennessee using this guide. Business License A farm is not required to have a business license in Tennessee. What is a business license and why is it required in Tennessee? A business license is a legal permit that allows a company or individual to operate a business within a specific jurisdiction. How to get a Tennessee Business Tax License In Tennessee, most businesses are required to have a sales tax permit. 1%) alcohol by volume. S. You are a retailer In addition, a sub to a sub would need to be licensed whenever there are more than one (1) subcontractors on the project. There were major changes to Tennessee business tax law in 2023, so be sure you're up to date on the current law. Feb 19, 2025 · Learn about business licensing requirements for your Tennessee business and how to apply for the licenses you need. Wholesaler Your tax rate is also affected by whether you are a retailer or a wholesaler at a given location. However, weekends and holidays may be particularly problematic if you do not know the account details to manage your license through this online system. Tennessee does not require a general business license, though anyone engaged in business in the state who intends to sell or lease taxable goods and services will need to obtain a seller’s permit. However, you still need to obtain one or more state-issued occupational licenses if you operate in a regulated profession or industry. Get the latest news headlines and top stories from NBCNews. business with our EIN lookup tool. If you need assistance in determining your classification, you may contact your county clerk, city business tax office, or the Tennessee Department of Revenue. How to become a Notary The Tennessee Secretary of State provides a searchable database of Notary Commissions in the state of Tennessee, registers online notary publics, and provides a list of frequently asked notary questions. Do you need to submit a Weapons - Guns - Ammo License in Grand Junction, TN? Find out with a business license compliance package or upgrade for professional help. To apply for a microloan, work with an SBA-approved intermediary in your area. Please visit the TDH homepage and use the Search tool to find current information and resources. 5 days ago · Learn which contractor license you need in Tennessee, including classifications, exams, monetary limits, and how to apply successfully. Check with your County Clerk and City Municipality for local requirements. Business taxes must be remitted annually based on the fiscal year of the business. Working without the right license can have dire financial and business consequences, so it's always best to keep your 5 Food Truck Licenses and Permits Required in Tennessee: How to Start a Food Truck Business (2026) Learn about the licenses and permits you’ll need to open a food truck in Tennessee. Submit applications for licenses, permits, and renewals quickly and securely through our online portal. We can handle it all! Business Tax Overview Generally, if you conduct business within any county and/or incorporated municipality in Tennessee, and your business grosses $100,000 or more, then you should register for and remit business tax. Dec 10, 2024 · General and specialty contractors need to know the licensing rules, requirements, and penalties in each state they work in — and the State of Tennessee has six different contractor license classifications to remember for you to perform any work on projects over $25,000. Whether you need to A business license is an annual tax for doing business within the city limits of Gallatin. Jun 28, 2021 · If you are located in Tennessee and are subject to the business tax you must obtain a Business License. Mar 12, 2025 · Learn how to start a business in Tennessee, including choosing a business name, obtaining a license, and registering your business. Do you need to submit an Insurance Business License in Grand Junction, TN? Find out with a business license compliance package or upgrade for professional help. Reciprocation is not with the license and is only a "TRADE EXAM" waiver with out of state participating agencies. Some pages or documents may be temporarily unavailable. Dec 31, 2023 · $100,000 or more: A standard business license is required. Our Municipal Code requires that you obtain a license when you conduct any business activity within the city even if your business is located outside the city limits or you have a business license from another city. Once you determine whether you are a retailer or a wholesaler at a particular location, you will apply that rate to all of your taxable gross sales at that location. Most classifications include both a retailer rate and a wholesaler rate. tn. Business Tax - Retailer vs. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. The services and oversight Jun 1, 2016 · During business hours, you can contact your board to disassociate your license from an online account established by a third party. For questions regarding Knox County Business Tre Hargett was elected by the Tennessee General Assembly to serve as Tennessee’s 37th secretary of state in 2009 and re-elected in 2013, 2017, 2021, and 2025. gov/ Online Application Forms Resource [pdf] The Relevance Inspector will open in the Coveo Administration Console. Find any U. Business license or registration with the Tennessee Department of Revenue. TABC jurisdiction covers alcoholic beverages with eight percent (8%) or greater alcohol by weight or ten and one-tenth percent (10. It takes up to 10 business days for the Department of Revenue to register your business. You are not allowed to operate until the license is obtained and posted in the business location. This includes businesses with Aug 25, 2025 · Do I Need a Business License in Tennessee In Tennessee, businesses are required to obtain various licenses and permits at the local, state, and federal levels. gov/ Online Application Forms Resource [pdf] 17. Jul 30, 2025 · Tennessee business licenses are issued by the county clerk in the area where your business is located. LICENSES AND PERMITS All businesses operating within Shelby County are required to obtain a business license and report their gross receipts to the Tennessee Department of Revenue on an annual basis. Do you need to submit a Health License in Crosstown, TN? Find out with a business license compliance package or upgrade for professional help. Secretary of State Tre Hargett Tre Hargett was elected by the Tennessee General Assembly to serve as Tennessee’s 37th secretary of state in 2009 and re-elected in 2013, 2017, 2021, and 2025. How often do I need to update my business registration and license information? The frequency with which you need to update your business registration and license information will depend on the regulations set by your local government agency. Feb 20, 2014 · How to Become a Licensed Contractor The following provides a resource of information for applying for a Tennessee contractor's license. State law requires that all businesses (with exceptions for professions, manufacturers, and certain disabled persons) inside the city of Knoxville have both city and county business licenses. Learn how to get a Tennessee business license for your LLC, including permits, registration with the Department of Revenue, and required licenses in Tennessee. Following is a list of each classification: Aug 18, 2023 · A business license Your medical license isn’t the only type of license required to open your practice. Some of the largest, most well- known companies in Tennessee today began with small business owners and entrepreneurs who dared to dream big and worked hard Types of Licenses issued by the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors. ³ Apply for a Local Business License Most businesses need a county or city business license, often referred to as a business tax license. What type of business license do you need? Business Type Classifications Types of Exempt Businesses Opening a Business Closing a Business Contact Generally, if you conduct business within any county and/or incorporated municipality in Tennessee, then you should register for a business license and remit business tax. What Kind of Business License Do You Need? The Standard Business License For businesses that gross The Tennessee Board of Architectural and Engineering Examiners was created in 1921 to safeguard life, health and property and to promote the public welfare through the establishment of standards and regulation of the practice of architecture, engineering and landscape architecture and the use of the title "registered interior designer" within the State of Tennessee. Business License Information The County Clerk business page has information on everything you need to obtain and renew a business license, pay business taxes and search for new and existing business licenses. Counties and municipalities in Tennessee are authorized by the state's General Assembly to levy a business license tax for the privilege of operating a business in a jurisdiction. Also called a sales tax certificate, this registers a business for taxes that must be paid, though this does not apply to a sole proprietorship. It depends on what your business does and where it's located. hiua aktfl ourjcoj femeg fospooi gjenpc vuev falqio agfqdvk bhhdlq