Business License Cost in Massachusetts (2026): Varies by City
Local Business Certificate (DBA) / City Business License. Local fees $20–$100/year. 1–5 business days to process.
Massachusetts requires most businesses to file a Business Certificate (a.k.a. DBA filing) with the city or town clerk — a one-time or 4-year fee of $20–$65. Boston requires separate business licenses for many establishment types, typically $45–$100/year. Massachusetts also has a sales tax registration requirement if you sell taxable goods.
State License Fee
N/A
No state license required
Local License Fee
$20–$100
city/county, per year
Processing Time
1+
business days
Massachusetts Business License: Key Facts
| License Name | Local Business Certificate (DBA) / City Business License |
| Issued By | City or town clerk |
| State Fee | None (local fees apply) |
| Local Fee Range | $20–$100/year |
| Renewal | Every 4 Years |
| Processing Time | 1–5 business days |
| State Income Tax | Yes |
What You Need to Apply
Before applying for a business license in Massachusetts, have these ready:
- ✓ Business name and structure — whether you're a sole proprietor, LLC, or corporation changes which forms you file
- ✓ EIN (Employer Identification Number) — free from IRS.gov, required for most licenses
- ✓ Business address — physical location in Massachusetts or a registered agent address
- ✓ Business description and NAICS code — the license fee may depend on your business category
- ✓ Payment method — credit card or check for the license fee
Massachusetts-Specific Licensing Note
Massachusetts requires a Business Certificate (often called a DBA) at the city/town level for most businesses, at $20–$65. Some cities require additional business licenses.
Also Starting a Massachusetts LLC?
Forming a Massachusetts LLC costs $500 in state filing fees and takes 3–5 business days. Business licenses and LLC formation are separate — you'll need both to legally operate.
How to Form a Massachusetts LLC →Professional and Industry-Specific Licenses
A general business license isn't the only license you may need. Most regulated professions require separate state-issued licenses regardless of your general business license status:
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a business license cost in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts requires most businesses to file a Business Certificate (a.k.a. DBA filing) with the city or town clerk — a one-time or 4-year fee of $20–$65. Boston requires separate business licenses for many establishment types, typically $45–$100/year. Massachusetts also has a sales tax registration requirement if you sell taxable goods.
Do I need a business license in Massachusetts?
Yes. Massachusetts requires businesses to obtain a Local Business Certificate (DBA) / City Business License before operating. Massachusetts requires a Business Certificate (often called a DBA) at the city/town level for most businesses, at $20–$65. Some cities require additional business licenses.
How do I get a business license in Massachusetts?
Apply for a Local Business Certificate (DBA) / City Business License through the city or town clerk. Processing takes 1–5 business days in most cases. You'll need your business name, entity type, EIN, and physical address before applying.
What is the difference between a business license and an LLC in Massachusetts?
An LLC (Limited Liability Company) is a legal business structure registered with the Secretary of State — it gives you liability protection and separates personal and business assets, costing $500 in Massachusetts. A business license is an operating permit from your state or local government that allows you to legally conduct business in that jurisdiction. Most small business owners need both.
Plan Your Business Costs
Business licenses are one piece of your startup budget. Use these calculators to plan the rest:
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