BRC Alert

Volume 1, Issue 1, April 1, 2002

Introduction to Master Business License & Online Tax Services

1. Obtain Your Licenses Online, Not In Line
2. File Taxes from the Comfort of Your PC
3. Use a Computer with Internet Access for Free
4. DC Business Tools

1. Obtain Your Licenses Online, Not In Line

DC business licenses are now available online for over 50 different types of business activities. The new online Master Business License (MBL) application is required for all businesses and nonprofit organizations that generate more than $2,000 in gross receipts.

The MBL is part of the online Business Resource Center. For MBL questions, call (202) 442-8956. For general business licensing questions, call the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs, Business Services Division at (202) 442-4311.

Existing license holders will be converted to an MBL through the renewal process.

Businesses that still must file in person include those either: (1) not located in the District or (2) requiring an inspection or other regulatory approval. These businesses will be able to file online beginning in fall of 2002.

Applying online requires:

• Being located in the District;
• Not presently having any type of business license;
• Operating a business that does not require an inspection or other preliminary approval; and,
• Using a VISA or MasterCard to pay fees online.

Prior to applying for an MBL, businesses must complete the following steps in person or through the mail:

• In person — Obtain a Certificate of Occupancy. If you are leasing space in a building that already holds a Certificate of Occupancy, you may use that Certificate of Occupancy number.
• By mail or in person — Register your company in the District if you are a corporation, partnership, or limited liability company.

Prior to applying for an MBL, businesses must complete the following steps by telephone or online:

• By telephone — Obtain a valid Federal Employee Identification Number (FEIN) or Social Security number; and,
• Online (or in person) — File a DC Combined Business Tax Registration (FR-500) form.

2. File Taxes from the Comfort of Your PC

The Electronic Taxpayer Service Center (eTSC) provides secure access to your DC business, individual, and real estate tax information. As a registered eTSC customer, you may file tax returns, remit payment via credit card, and correspond with the DC Office of Tax and Revenue. Businesses can also remit payment by electronic funds transfer (EFT) and view account balance information. The eTSC currently provides electronic filing for sales tax and withholding monthly filers. The site allows account inquiry and electronic payment across the following business tax accounts: Sales & Use, Franchise, Employer Withholding, and Personal Property.

Electronic Taxpayer Service Center or call (202) 727-4TAX.

Electronic filing is provided free of charge when paying by EFT or check. A small processing fee is charged for credit card payments. Electronic filing does not increase the probability of being audited.

3. Use a Computer with Internet Access for Free

Access to the Internet is very useful when conducting market research, finding suppliers and customers, and accessing government services. Businesses can use computers with Internet access at no charge on a first-come, first served basis at the following DC and federal agencies:

DC Public Library (one-hour time limit applies)
Call (202) 727-0321 for the nearest location, hours, and information.

DC Department of Employment Services One-Stop Career Centers
Call (202) 724-7000 for hours and information.

441 4th Street, NW, Ground Level 4049 South Capitol Street, SW 2626 Naylor Road, SE

1500 Franklin Street, NE 401 M Street, SW, Suite 1, 2nd Floor

4. DC Business Tools

• Business Resource Center
• Basic Business License
  or call (202) 442-4311
• Electronic Taxpayer Service Center
  or call (202) 727-4TAX
• DC Business Connections
  or call (202) 661-8677
• Economic Development Map
  or call (202) 727-6365
• NET 2000 Tax Calculator
  or call (202) 727-6365
• Citizen Service Requests
  or call (202) 727-1000

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