How to File for a Business License in Los Angeles

Your Los Angeles business license will also be your city tax idenfication number.

If you own a business in the City of Los Angeles, whether it be a small home office or large corporation, or if you are pursuing cash business within the physical limits of the city, you are required to purchase a license to do so. The Tax Registration Certificate will serve as the license for your business, for which you may be required to pay business tax to the City's Office of Finance.

Things You'll Need

• Telephone
• Computer with Internet access
• Stamped envelope

Instructions

1. Visit the City of Los Angeles, Office of Finance located at Los Angeles City Hall, 200 N. Spring St., Room 101, Los Angeles, CA 90012. Ask the clerk for a new business tax application form. Complete the form and pay the fee, which will vary according to the type and location of the your business. You will receive a business license in the mail after your check has been cleared.

2. Call the City of Los Angeles Customer Service Center at [phone], Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Provide your name, tell them you would like to file a business tax application form with the City of Los Angeles and provide your daytime phone number with area code. Complete the form after receiving it in the mail. Enclose a check for the correct amount which is calculated on your form and mail to the address provided on the form. The City will mail a business license to you upon completion.

3. Start your Internet browser and visit the Los Angeles finance department. The second link under Resources, below, will get you there. Locate office hours and other locations within Los Angeles. Note the closest location and contact number to call or visit to fill out the new business license form. Complete the form as in Step 2.

4. From your browser, access the Los Angeles tax registration form. The link is the third under Resources. Download and complete the form, then email it as an attachment to: [e-mail]. You will receive a bill from the city. Pay the bill and receive your business license in the mail.

5. Visit calgold.ca.gov/ and enter your business type, then press "Continue." Select "Los Angeles County" and then "Los Angeles City" or your incorporated city, then "Continue." Note the location to visit, and complete the process as in Step 1.

Tips & Warnings

• You may be exempt from paying Los Angeles city business tax depending upon your business or amount of income, but everyone operating their own business in Los Angeles is required to register. Check with your tax professional to determine tax requirements.

References

• City of Los Angeles: Office of Finance

Resources

• City of Los Angeles Information: Business and Other Taxes
• Los Angeles Finance Department
• Los Angeles Tax Registration Form