Mississippi Business License
You can obtain a Mississippi 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.
Recommended: LegalZoom will do all the necessary legwork to find the exact local, county, state, and federal licenses that your business requires to stay compliant. Start Now with packages starting at $99.
How to Get a Business License in MS
You can get a business license online 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 Mississippi Business Licensing
The main state-level permit or license in Mississippi is the sales and use tax number, also called a seller’s permit.
You must obtain a seller's permit if you:
- Are engaged in business in Mississippi
- Intend to sell or lease goods or services that would ordinarily be subject to sales tax if sold at retail.
Visit the Mississippi Taxpayer Access Point to obtain a sales and use tax number.
Additionally, businesses in certain professions are required to have specific licenses as well. The State of Mississippi does not keep a comprehensive list of these professions or licenses, but commonly licensed activities include real estate, construction, retail, and food service. Check the state's list of departments to see if one regulates your business's activities.
Local Mississippi Business Licensing
In Mississippi, you may need other licenses or permits from your state and local government depending on your business activity or location.
For example, the City of Jackson requires most businesses to have a local business license.
Contact your local Mississippi county government office for more information.
Steps for Obtaining a Business License in Mississippi
Mississippi Sales and Use Tax Number
You can register for a Mississippi sales and use tax numbers online. You will first need to register as a new taxpayer and then separately register for online account access.
Apply for a Mississippi Sales and Use Tax Number
Apply Online With the Mississippi Taxpayer Access Point
Apply OnlineFee: None
Other Mississippi Business Licenses
The processes for obtaining other Mississippi business licenses vary. Check with the relevant local government office for more information.
Renewal
Mississippi sales and use tax numbers do not need to be renewed. Check with the relevant government office for renewal requirements for any other licenses or permits your business 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
Visit our review of the best licensing service providers to learn more about the different professional services that can help you research and apply for business licenses and permits.
LegalZoom offers ongoing legal support and an affordable package to help you quickly apply for all the licenses required to legally operate your business.
MS Business License FAQ
Who needs a Mississippi business license?
Any business that sells taxable goods needs a seller’s permit. Businesses in certain other professions or locations may need other licenses.
What licenses do I need to open a business in Mississippi?
Most businesses will need a seller’s permit. Businesses in certain other professions or locations may need other 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 Mississippi, businesses must instead acquire a sales and use tax number.
How much does a Mississippi business license cost?
There is no fee for a Mississippi seller’s permit. The cost of other licenses varies.
How do I get a Mississippi business license?
You can register for a Mississippi sales and use tax numbers, or seller’s permit, through the state’s Taxpayer Access Point website. The processes for obtaining other licenses vary.
Do I have to renew my Mississippi business license?
Mississippi sales and use tax numbers do not need to be renewed. Check with the relevant government office for renewal requirements for any other licenses or permits your business may have.