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Your Government » Departments & Offices » Finance » Business Tax & Registration

Register for a business tax certificate

You may hear this called a business license or a business permit. The City of San José calls this a business tax certificate.

Every person or company conducting business in San José must register for a Business Tax Certificate. Payment is due within 90 days of starting business in San José.

What you need

  • Start date of business in San José
  • Tax Identification Number (FEIN, SSN, and/or TIN)
  • Driver’s License Number (for the principal owner)
  • Telephone number
  • Ownership name(s) & address(es)
  • Address of each location in San José where you do business
  • Valid email address
  • Contractor's Number/Type (If applicable)
  • State Sellers Permit Number (If applicable)
  • County Health Permit Number (If applicable)

how to pay 

  • For New Registrations: If you did not pay during the registration process, you will receive your invoice by mail within 5-10 business days. Then, you may mail in payment or come back here to pay online.
  • For Renewals: Pay your Business Tax online. Please have your invoice ready.

After paying, you'll get a Business Tax Certificate in the mail. Remember to display your certificate at your business at all times.