Apply For A Business License Hampton, Virginia
What is the Business, Professional, and Occupational License Tax?
It is the business license. In the City of Hampton, these terms are used interchangeably. The Business, Professional and Occupational License Tax (BPOL) is the official name of a business license in the State of Virginia. There are two types: a Peddler’s License and a Vendor’s License. The determination of what kind of license will be issued is dependent upon the genre of business and the structure of that business. The Deputy Commissioner of the Revenue makes the judgment of which of the licenses will be granted.
How can I obtain a Bondsman License?
If you desire to receive a Property Bondsman License, you must obtain a certificate from the Hampton Circuit Court. In order to receive the certificate you must apply for it. You may only get this application through a judge at Circuit Court #4. Call (757) 726-6920 to learn more. After, and only after you get the Court’s Certificate, you are required to go to the Commissioner’s Office to obtain a business license. Please go in person. Because this is a specialty license, sending the information by mail will prolong the process. The Department of Criminal Justice regulates Surety Bondsmen. Please contact them directly at (804) 786-4000. Surety Bondsmen do not have to register with the Clerk of the Circuit and do not need a business license to operate. For your information, the City Magistrate mandates proof of a valid Hampton business license before permitting Property Bondsmen to act in the City.
What is the annual cost for a business license (BPOL)?
According to the City of Hampton’s legislation, the business license application must be satisfactorily filed and all business license tax fees be paid in full before the commencement of your business. The cost, or tax rate, varies dependent upon the type of business. Furthermore, extraneous requirements may need to be satisfied before the start of business. The City of Hampton wishes to speak with you directly to hear what business specifications you have so that they can give you accurate Business License Tax information. Please call them at (757) 727-6700.
Where can I apply?
You may apply in person or by mail only. If you desire to apply in person the address is:
Commissioner of the Revenue, Business License Division
1 Franklin Street
Hampton, VA 23669
(757) 727-6700
The application is found online at: http://www.hampton.va.us/assess_and_collect/business_licenses.html.
Do I need permits?
It is highly recommended that you call the Virginia Department of Professional & Occupational Regulation at (804) 367-8500. They will advise if you will require any permits or a state license to obtain a Hampton business license and to operate.
I am going to have a sole proprietorship or a partnership. What must I do?
If you plan to operate as partnership or as a sole proprietorship, a “Certificate As” is first required to be filed with the Clerk of the Circuit Court.
The information is as follows:
Clerk of the Circuit Court
101 Kings Way Court House
Hampton, VA 23669
(757) 727-6105
Lastly, file a copy with the Commissioner of the Revenue.
Is the license fee pro-rated?
No, fortunately, the license fee is not pro-rated. It begins on the date your business commences through December 31st. The fee is based upon the gross receipts that were earned per calendar year. New business owners are asked to estimate what the gross receipts will be and to pay on that estimation. This must be done before the business opens its doors. For renewal, the business license tax or fee has to be satisfied before March 1st for the previous year ending December 31st.
Are there other questions or concerns?
The City of Hampton takes pride in assisting business owners. Please feel free to contact the office. Write to:
Commissioner of the Revenue, Business License Division
Attn: Business License
P.O. Box 636
Hampton, VA 23669
You can also visit the office at 1 Franklin Street or call
(757) 727-6700 if you need more information.
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This site is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial or tax advise. The information on this site should not be relied upon as an official source of information and should be independently verified.
