Nebraska Business License
You can obtain a Nebraska business license online.
We provide the information and resources you'll need to get federal, state, and local licenses and permits for your small business, including the seller’s permit.
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How to Get a Business License in NE
You can get a business license online or by mail by applying with the correct licensing or regulatory agency for your business.
Business licensing requirements generally depend on your business’s activity and location (zoning requirements).
There are three main licensing jurisdictions:
- State
- Local
- Federal
State of Nebraska Business Licensing
The only state-level permit or license in Nebraska is the sales tax permit, also called a seller’s permit.
You must obtain a seller's permit if you:
- Are engaged in business in Nebraska
- Intend to sell or lease products or services that would ordinarily be subject to sales tax if sold at retail.
Visit the Department of Revenue to obtain a seller’s permit.
Additionally, businesses in certain professions are required to have specific licenses. The Nebraska One Stop License and Inspection Portal provides applications and links to more information.
Local Nebraska Business Licensing
In Nebraska, you may need other licenses or permits from your local government depending on your business activity or location.
For example, the City of Lincoln doesn’t have a general business license for all businesses, but it does require certain professions to have a license or permit.
Contact your local Nebraska town or county government office for more information.
Steps for Obtaining a Business License in Nebraska
Nebraska Sales Tax Permit
You can register for a Nebraska sales tax permit online, by mail, or by fax. To register online, you will need to create an account if you don’t have one already.
Apply for a Nebraska Sales Tax Permit
OPTION 1: Apply Online With the Nebraska Department of Revenue
Apply Online- OR -
OPTION 2: Apply by Mail or by Fax
Download FormFee: None
Mailing Address:
Nebraska Department of Revenue
P.O. Box 98903
Lincoln, NE 68509-8903
Fax: (402) 471-5927
Other Nebraska Business Licenses
The processes for registering for other business licenses vary. Contact the relevant state, town, or county government office for more information.
Renewal
Nebraska sales tax permits do not need to be renewed. Check with the relevant government office about renewal requirements for 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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NE Business License FAQ
Who needs a Nebraska business license?
Any business that sells taxable goods or services needs a Nebraska sales tax permit. Businesses in certain other professions or locations are required to have other specific licenses.
What licenses do I need to open a business in Nebraska?
Most businesses will at least need a Nebraska sales tax permit. Businesses in certain other professions or locations are required to have other specific licenses.
What is a seller’s permit?
A seller’s permit is the common name for a license or permit that allows you to sell products or services. In Nebraska, this is called a sales tax permit.
How much does a Nebraska business license cost?
There is no fee for a Nebraska sales tax permit. The cost of other licenses varies.
How do I get a Nebraska business license?
You can register for a Nebraska sales tax permit online through the Nebraska Department of Revenue website, by mail, or by fax.
Do I have to renew my Nebraska business license?
Nebraska sales tax permits do not need to be renewed. Check with the relevant government office about renewal requirements for any other licenses you may have.