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Step 1
Call or visit your town or city hall to inquire about getting a business license in Pennsylvania. The usual department is Licensing or Zoning.
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Step 2
Visit the office during normal business hours to fill out a business license application. You will need to supply basic personal information such as your full name, residential address, date of birth and Social Security Number. You will also be expected to provide business information such as the number of employees, nature of your business, operating location and Employer Identification Number.
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Step 3
Pay the business license fees during your visit. These fees are usually payable by cash or credit card, though some Pennsylvania jurisdictions may be willing to accept business or personal checks with proper photo identification. Virtually all companies will be charged less than $100.
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Step 4
Wait to receive your business license, which must hang in a visible place on your business property. This document is usually printed the same day, though some jurisdictions may require you to return to pick it up within a week or mail it to you.
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Step 5
Renew your Pennsylvania business license each year to stay legally able to operate within the state. The same process applies each time, except you will likely be able to fill out a shorter renewal form.
