Firms exist in many different industries including: lawyers, advertising professionals, architects, accountants, financial advisers, engineers, and consultants. They can be any organization or profession that offers customized, knowledge-based services to clients.
Professional Services Firm
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Obtain a Business Income and Receipts Tax ID
Every individual, partnership, association and corporation doing business in Philadelphia must file a Business Income and Receipts Tax Return in whether or not they earned a profit during the preceding year. Rental activities are usually considered business activities.
Obtain a Commercial Activity License
An Activity License is required for all businesses and non-profits operating in Philadelphia. This includes businesses that are located outside the city limits but do some or all of their business activity in the City.
Obtain Federal Tax ID Number
Your Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a nine-digit number issued by the IRS to identify your business and the type of tax returns you file.
Employer Withholding Requirements
All Philadelphia employers must apply for a business tax account number from the City so you can begin withholding taxes.
Documents You May Need
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Pennsylvania Professional Licensing
Certain professionals and businesses require a license and state credential to practice in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Handbill Distribution License
This license is required for any distributor, distribution business, or person, who distributes commercial handbills on sidewalks, in public places, or door-to-door.
Register a Trademark
While you are not required to register your mark, there are certain advantages to owning a federal Trademark registration.
Net Profits Tax
The Net Profits Tax (NPT) is levied on the net profits from the operation of a trade, business, profession, enterprise or other activity.
Dumpster License
Dumpsters in the public right of way require an annual, renewable license from the Department of Licenses and Inspections.
Zoning and Use
The Philadelphia Zoning Code regulates development within the city. Zoning regulations govern land use, the height and size of buildings, population density, parking requirements, signage placement and the character of development on private property, and property uses.