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Feb 14: Due to inclement weather, the Vancouver office is closed.
Next steps for your new business
Now that you’ve completed the Business License Application, you will receive information from some or all of the following agencies, once your application is approved:
- Department of Revenue
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- You will need to file an excise tax return monthly, quarterly, or annually, even if you have no business to report for a period. The department will assign you a filing frequency when you apply.
- You will receive a Unified Business Identifier (UBI) number that you will need to use when you file your taxes or make changes to your business.
- You will receive your business license, with any endorsements listed. Do not begin any business activity until you receive this license. Post the license at each business location.
- Department of Labor and Industries
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- If you are hiring employees, submit quarterly reports for all active accounts, even if you have no employees and “0” active hours.
- Employment Security Department
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- If you are hiring employees, submit quarterly reports for all active accounts, even if you have no employees and “0” active hours.
- Federal, state, and local requirements
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You should see if there are any other state or local agencies you need to contact. The Business Licensing Wizard gives you some of this information, but here are some additional resources:
- Check the city/town where your business will be located for any additional requirements.
- Check the complete list of licenses at Department of Licensing.
- You may also need to apply for a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN).
- Contractors – check out additional requirements and information about your licensing process.
- Using music in your business? There are copyright laws that may require you to purchase a license to use in your business, whether it is prerecorded, streamed, played by a live band, or used for karaoke. Read more about copyright laws and where to purchase a license.
- If you have an LLC or a corporation, you may be required to report beneficial ownership information (BOI) with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN).
Use of personal property
Businesses that use personal property (i.e. assets or equipment used in conducting business) or have taxable personal property must complete a personal property tax listing form. The listing must be filed with your county assessor's office by April 30 of each year. The assessor uses the listing to value your personal property taxes. Contact your local assessor for instructions. See our Personal Property Tax brochure for detailed information.
