Before you can obtain your Business Tax Certificate, both your Zoning Clearance and Fictitious Business Name applications must be approved. Check out Do You Need to Register Your Business to find out if you qualify for a Business Tax Certificate exemption.
Cost
The $88 registration fee must be paid and filed within 30 days of starting your business. If you file your registration later than 30 days after you start your business, you will need to pay a small penalty plus interest for each month beyond the 30 days.
Application Process
You can get a New Business Application online and at the Business Tax Office. You can pay by cash, check, cashier's check, money order, Mastercard, Visa, Discover Card or an ATM/Debit Card. If you want to pay with an ATM/Debit Card, you must pay in person at the Business Tax Office.
The application can be returned by fax, via mail or in person. If submitting by fax, you may pay by phone and provide the social security number or federal tax identification number on record. You will get a paper certificate from the Business Tax Office about two weeks after you pay your fee.
Business Tax Office Hours
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 8 a.m. – 4:00 p.m
Wednesday, 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m
Renewal
Business taxes must be paid annually, on or before March 1st of each year. It is your responsibility to renew your certificate on time and/or to notify the Business Tax Office if you have not received your annual renewal declaration(s).
Non-Profit Registation
All non-profit organizations located or doing business in the City of Springfield are required to register with the City. To register as a non-profit, you must have your 501(c)(3) from the IRS, the Letter of Exemption from the State Franchise Board, a copy of your Articles of Incorporation, and, if you have a location in the City of Springfield, a zoning clearance for your business location. Once you have obtained the above documents you must complete a Business Registration Application and provide the City with copies of your 501(c)(3), Letter of Exemption, and Articles of Incorporation.
Learn More About Getting a Business License and Business Tax Certificates
Get a business application, business tax classification and rate table, and read Frequently Asked Questions on the City of Springfield Finance and Management Agency website.
All business operating in the City of Springfield need to pay an annual business tax by March 1 of each year.