You’ve determined that, yes you do indeed need a business license. Now what?
Getting a business license in Arizona is a very simple process, and is at this time, a ONE TIME $12 fee. You will need to go to the Arizona Department of Revenue website and fill out an “Arizona Joint Tax Application (JT-1). This will ask you questions about your business, it’s owners and type of ownership, date business started and where your tax records will be stored. You will also be using the retail classification.
In section D – physical location. Unless you have a storefront, this will be your home address. All other sections are pretty self-explanatory.
On the State/County & City Worksheet. If you live inside the city limits you will need a city license for your respective city. If you live in the county, you will only need the state license. If you are not sure, call the Arizona Department of Revenue and they can walk you through the process.
It may take a couple weeks or more for your actual license to arrive. You may participate in events during this time, just bring a copy of your application receipt.
Your license may also need to be renewed annually. Be sure to fill out the forms and send them back within the allotted time so your license is not canceled. There may or may not be an additional charge, depending on location and type of license.
Don’t be intimidated by having to deal with the state legal system. It’s not a complicated process and keeps you from facing some potentially large fines if you are caught operating a business without a license. Better safe than sorry.
