Missouri Business License
The way you get a Missouri business license is online.
Keep reading to learn what you'll need to get federal, state, and local licenses and permits for your small business, including the seller’s permit in the State of Missouri.
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How to Get a Business License in MO
You can get a business license in Missouri online or by mail. You'll need to apply to the correct licensing or regulatory agency for your limited liability company or business entity.
Business licensing requirements will depend on your business’s activity and location (zoning requirements). You'll need the required licenses to operate legally.
The Missouri state government (state's office), city clerk, city hall, county clerk, and professional registration agencies are whom you'll need to contact about getting a business license in Missouri and business license fees.
There are three main licensing jurisdictions:
- State
- Local
- Federal
State of Missouri Business Licensing
The only state-level permit or license in Missouri is the sales tax license, also known as a seller’s permit.
You must obtain a seller's permit if you:
- Are engaged in business in Missouri
- Intend to sell or lease taxable goods or services.
Visit the Department of Revenue website to obtain a sales tax license.
Additionally, businesses in certain professions are required to have specific licenses. The Missouri Division of Professional Registration provides more information about other types of Missouri business licenses.
Local Missouri Business Licensing
In Missouri, you may need other licenses or permits from your local government depending on your business activity or location.
For example, Jefferson City requires all businesses, unless specifically exempt, to have a city business license.
Contact your local Missouri city or county government office for more information.
Steps for Obtaining a Business License in Missouri
Missouri Sales Tax License
You can register for a Missouri sales tax license online or by mail.
Businesses are also required to post a sales and use tax bond equal to three times their estimated monthly tax liability, unless the estimated amount is under $500, in which case the bond is only $25.
Apply for a Missouri Sales Tax License
OPTION 1: Apply Online With the Missouri Department of Revenue
Apply Online- OR -
OPTION 2: Apply by Mail
Download FormFee: $25+
Mailing Address:
Sales and Use Tax
Taxation Division
P.O. Box 357
Jefferson City, MO 65105-0357
Other Missouri Business Licenses
The processes for obtaining other business licenses vary. Contact the relevant state or local government office for more information.
Renewal
Missouri sales tax licenses do not need to be renewed.
Renewal requirements for other state licenses vary. Some professional licenses can be renewed through the Missouri Division of Professional Registration’s online license renewal website. Check with the relevant state or local office for more information about any other licenses you may have.
Federal Business Licenses and Permits
You can get a business license by applying with the correct licensing and regulatory agency for your business. Business licensing requirements depend on your business’s activity and location (zoning requirements).
If your business conducts activities that are regulated by the federal government, you will need to apply for the appropriate business license or permit.
Choose a business activity below to learn how to apply:
Agriculture
Alcoholic beverages
Aviation
Firearms, ammunition, and explosives
Fish and wildlife
Commercial fisheries
Maritime transportation
Nuclear energy
Radio and television broadcasting
Transportation and logistics
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MO Business License FAQ
Who needs a Missouri business license?
Anyone who wants to start a business in Missouri must first obtain a valid business license. The license is required by the state and necessary for any business inside the state of Missouri to be legally recognized. Whether you are starting an LLC, sole proprietorship, partnership or corporation, obtaining a Missouri business license is essential to legally operate in this state.
The types of businesses that require a Missouri business license include retail stores, professional services, food service providers, contractors, and home-based businesses. While there are some exceptions for certain kinds of businesses such as those involved with agriculture or religious organizations, most will still need the necessary licensing from the state before operations can begin. Depending on what type of business you have and where it’s located within the state, additional licensing may also be required from local governments.
Basically, any business that sells taxable goods or services needs a Missouri sales tax license. Businesses in certain professions or locations may also need other specific licenses.
What licenses do I need to open a business in Missouri?
The specific licensing requirements depend on your business type, location, and other factors.
In general, most businesses in Missouri require some form of license or permit from state or local government agencies.
For example, if you're opening a retail store in St. Louis County, you'll likely need to obtain a sales tax permit from the Department of Revenue as well as a business license from the county clerk's office.
Businesses that serve food must also obtain health certificates from their local health department before opening for business.
There are also various federal licenses and permits that may be required depending on your industry such as permits for selling alcohol or firearms.
What is a seller’s permit?
A seller's permit is a state-level license that allows businesses to collect sales tax from customers. It’s also known as a resale license, reseller permit, or sales and use tax permit. Obtaining a seller’s permit is required for any business selling products and services in the US.
Not all states require businesses to obtain a seller's permit. However, it is important to find out if your state requires one as failure to acquire the necessary permits can result in fines or other penalties.
Additionally, some states require businesses to display their sellers' permits on-premises or when engaging with customers online. In some cases, even nonprofit organizations may need to register for seller's permits in order to purchase items without paying sales taxes.
How much does a Missouri business license cost?
When registering for a Missouri sales tax license, businesses must post a bond equal to three times their estimated monthly tax obligation, unless that estimate is under $500, in which case the bond is $25. The cost of other licenses varies.
How do I get a Missouri business license?
You can register for a Missouri sales tax license online through the Missouri Department of Revenue’s Online New Business Registration website.
Do I have to renew my Missouri business license?
Missouri sales tax licenses do not need to be renewed. Some professional licenses can be renewed through the Missouri Division of Professional Registration’s online license renewal website. Check with the relevant state or local office for more information about any other licenses you may have..
Do I need a federal employer identification number to get a Missouri business license?
When it comes to starting a business in the state of Missouri, there are several steps that must be taken. One such step is getting a federal employer identification number (EIN), which is required for most businesses. But do you need an EIN to get a Missouri business license? The answer is yes, but there are some exceptions to this rule.
In general, businesses with employees—including employers, corporations and partnerships—are required by law to get an EIN from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and use it when filing taxes for their business. This same number should also be used when applying for your Missouri business license as proof of your legal entity status and tax compliance. However, if your business does not have any employees or will not pay wages or salaries, then you may not be required to get an EIN in order to obtain a license.