One of the most important requirements to do business in the state of Pennsylvania is the business license, a document that all companies within this state will need to remain compliant with tax laws and local regulations. Business license registration costs are an expense, but no business can afford to be without one.
How much is a business license in Pennsylvania? Business licenses in Pennsylvania cost anything from $50 to $500, and it depends on the type of license that the business is going to need. Business licenses are an important part of the law in Pennsylvania, and all businesses who want to operate within the state will need their licenses up to date before they are allowed to trade.
License Applications in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania law require that all businesses apply for their legal business license before they are allowed to open a branch or business within the state. A business license entitles a business to buy, trade and pay tax within the state.
Without a business licenses, any Pennsylvania business could be forced to close by the authorities until their licenses and permits have been brought up to date. Additional fines apply for companies in Pennsylvania who continue to trade without a license.
Business license applications for Pennsylvania can be done at a physical representative office, but can also be applied for online where the process takes just a few minutes and a form to fill in.
The cost of a Pennsylvania business license can vary: company registration can cost anything from $50 and as far up as $500 for an LLC.
Final cost of Pennsylvania business license registration will depend on the type of business and permit required. Additional permits for specific businesses could increase the cost of an application.
License validity does not work the same in Pennsylvania as most other states. The majority of Pennsylvania business licenses are valid for at least 2 years after they have been applied for.
Individual permits and licenses in Pennsylvania could have different applicable renewal times. It’s up to the business owner to check.
Some permits and licenses in Pennsylvania will renew automatically, but there are exceptions to the rule. Again, it is the business owner’s responsibility to make sure their permits are up to date – and to renew what is not.
Late license renewals in Pennsylvania can be subject to added late fees, and continual trade without a license could get a business closed almost immediately in this state.
A business license is one of the single most important documents for any Pennsylvania business, even if they might require other relevant documents or permits.
Types of Business Licenses
| An LLC License | An LLC license is meant for a Limited Liability Corporation, and could cost more to register in some areas of Pennsylvania. |
| A General Operating License | A general operating license is required from all businesses who want to open a business or branch in Pennsylvania. |
| A Food License | Food licenses apply only to businesses who sell, trade in or buy food-related items. |
| A Nonprofit | Nonprofit licenses are reserved for charities and not-for-profit organizations who want to register in Pennsylvania. They require a different form, but have no fees to register. |
Pennsylvania Business License Facts
• Pennsylvania business license registration can be done at a physical office, or through the state-wide online portal for business registration.
• Pennsylvania business licenses are valid for a period of 2 years from the approval date, though there are exceptions for some permits.
• Fees must accompany a license application, or it could be rejected – and fees are non-refundable for all applications and renewals.
• All businesses in Pennsylvania require a basic business license to operate, even ones that sell most of their goods online or provide services rather than products.
How long does a business license in Pennsylvania take?
Pennsylvania business license registration should take only a few minutes, but it can take up to 2 weeks for a license application to be rejected or approved.
When does a business license in Pennsylvania expire?
Most Pennsylvania business licenses remain valid for 2 years after their approval date. There are exceptions, especially with specialized permits, and companies are encouraged to check the individual expiration dates.
How do I register for a nonprofit license in Pennsylvania?
Not-for-profit companies and charities require a different form, and can be registered with no associated fees in Pennsylvania.
Where can I apply for a business license in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania business license applications can be done at a physical office, but can also be done through an easy online application process found at the state registration website.
How do I know my business license has been approved?
Business licenses are subject to approval after they have been submitted. The sender will receive a notification once their application has been processed. A temporary copy becomes available to display registration details, and a physical copy ships to the applicant.
What if my business license is delayed?
Business license delays are normal at busy times of the year when application volumes increase, but a business license registration can also take longer thanks to physical applications rather than online ones.
Business Licenses in Pennsylvania
The law requires all businesses in Pennsylvania to register for their business license before they are allowed to operate an office or branch in this state.
The cost of Pennsylvania business licenses can be different, ant it depends on the type of license that is being registered for. Basic business licenses are cheaper, while companies like an LLC and special permits might cost more.
Businesses without an updated license could face closure from the state, and additional fines for continual operation without a license.
Here are the business license costs in other states: