Business License
Jefferson County Revenue Department

 



The State of Alabama and Jefferson County require all persons, firms, or corporations that engage in or transact any trade, business, commerce, occupation, vocation or profession for gain or profit to pay a license fee. You may need a State License, a Jefferson County License, or a combination of the two depending on the nature of your business. You should obtain a business license prior to opening your business.

Fees - License fees are determined by the exact nature and type of your business. A complete copy of County Ordinance 1172-Jefferson County License Code is located to the right. You should contact Jefferson County Revenue Department-Examiner Section @ 205/325-5186 for more information. Some licenses require State Regulatory Permits in order to issue, such as auto dealers, food establishments, and air conditioning contractors.






How do I get a business license?

For a new business or a new location of an existing business, you should fill out an Application for Tax or License Number and return it to the Jefferson County Revenue Department. This form can be picked up at any Revenue Department location or you may print an application at this location.


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Are there any other authorities I should check with before establishing my business?
You should contact the city or municipality in which your business is located regarding any taxes or licenses they may require. You may also want to contact the following agencies regarding guidelines and requirements for new businesses:
 
State of Alabama Sales Tax
2024 3rd Avenue North
Birmingham, AL 35203
Phone: (205) 323-0012
Internal Revenue Service 801 Tom Martin Drive, Birmingham, AL 35211
Phone: 1-800-829-1040
Small Business Administration 801 Tom Martin Drive, Birmingham, AL 35211
Phone: (205) 731-1341
 
Will I also need to file a sales tax report?
All persons or businesses who sell tangible property at retail, or operate machines or places of entertainment or amusement must collect sales tax and make reports and payments to the Jefferson County Revenue Department. An information sheet on Jefferson County Sales Tax is available at any Revenue Department location or may be printed at this location.


 
Would you like to view or print general information about the Jefferson County Sales Tax? (185k)
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Do I need to renew my existing business license, and if so, when?
Yes, State and Jefferson County business licenses are valid for a fiscal year beginning October 1 and ending September 30 of the following year. All licenses expire September 30th of each year. You should renew your business license between October 1st and October 31st. You may receive a renewal notice in the mail. However, renewal is your responsibility; any notification is a courtesy.

What if I move my business to a new location?
If your business changes location, your original license may be brought to a Revenue Department location, or it can be mailed with a written request to change the location. An address change may affect your license rate, as many State License fees are based on municipal population.

What if I sell my business or buy a business from someone else?
State and County business licenses may be transferred to new owners. Transfer requires the original license(s) be endorsed on the face of the license by the Seller, a Bill of Sale, and fee (fees vary with the number of licenses to be transferred.) Note: Business licenses issued to professionals (doctors, engineers, accountants, etc.) are not transferable.