What Business Licenses & Permits are Needed in Missouri?
Starting a in will mean potentially registering with a number of federal, state, and local agencies. Let’s take a look at common licenses and permits a will register for in .
Before applying for any licenses, the will need to be established. Learn more about the differences between the , general partnership, , and (LLC).
Related: Comparison of Entities
Learn more about forming an LLC in Missouri
Also see: Steps to starting a business in Missouri
There is no general state of , however, many cities require businesses to be licensed in order to operate. Rules for vary depending on location and what the does. Below are a few cities that have .
Kansas City – All businesses need to complete a when conducting in Kansas City. They will also pay the “Profits Return Earnings .” The cost of this is 1% of net profits.
St. Louis – Businesses operating in the city of St. Louis will need to obtain a Graduated (GBL). In addition, certain types of businesses such as auto sales, catering businesses, day cares, jewelry repair businesses, and several others require additional requirements from the city.
Springfield – Most businesses operating in the city will need to get a from the Springfield Finance Department. licensing includes home-based and commercial-based businesses.
Independence – A operating in will need to obtain a City Occupation and possibly zoning clearance before starting the .
Columbia – The Office of City Hall issues businesses licenses, which are required for any activity. The cost of a in Columbia is $30 for an application and a minimum of a $15 . The increases depending on the projected income of the .
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Building & Zoning Permits
Zoning – Depending on the location of the , it’s important to verify whether the needs an  or has specific to operate. Depending on the city code, home-based businesses may need to apply for a .
Building – A building may be needed from the city or building and planning department if there is any construction or renovations to a facility.
Signage – Some municipalities require a before adding signage.
Registration
A must register for the Registration if it collects or employee withholding taxes. Many businesses will need to register for a from the of to sell tangible personal property or providing certain fabrication, rental, or other particular services.
In addition to the state registration, several counties also require businesses making of products or merchandise to obtain a .
Check with your County Clerk’s Office for more information.Â
Exemption
Businesses purchasing merchandise to resell will usually want to obtain a Exemption in order to not pay for merchandise that is being resold to customers.
Professional
A variety of professions in the state are regulated and need to be registered before offering certain services. A few common professions that require licensing in include; electrical contractors, accountants, interior designers, tattoo artists, and many more. Additional information, fees, and for professions are available from the of Professional Regulations.
Employer Identification Number (EIN)
Many businesses will register with the Internal Service (IRS) for an EIN (also referred to as a FEIN, Federal Employer Identification Number, or Federal ID Number). The EIN is the equivalent for a Social Security Number for an individual. Corporations, Limited Liability Companies, Partnerships, and Sole Proprietorships with employees will all need to register for one. Sole Proprietorships without employees can use the owner’s Social Security Number.
There is no cost for an EIN, and it only takes a few minutes to get.
Fictitious Name Registration
While not a , it’s common for Sole Proprietorships and Partnerships operating under a name that is different from the full name of the owner(s) to register for a Fictitious Name (also known as a Doing As or DBA) with the of State’s Office.
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These are some of the most common licenses, but there are far too many licenses and permits for us to keep track of. Before starting your , be sure to check with the , Chamber of Commerce, and/or Economic Developer in your area to get more information regarding licensing.
