A person, business, or corporation that provides goods or services to another entity under terms specified in a contract or within a verbal agreement are generally considered self-employed and file a 1099 with the IRS.
Independent Contractor (Recipient of IRS Form 1099)
Required
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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.
Running a Home Based Businesses
If you're starting a home-based business in the City of Philadelphia, consider the following.
Overview of Business Income and Receipts Tax
The Business Income & Receipts Tax (BIRT) is based on both gross receipts and net income. Both parts must be filed. This is a completely separate tax from the Net Profits Tax.
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.
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.
Register a Trademark
While you are not required to register your mark, there are certain advantages to owning a federal Trademark registration.
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.
Dumpster License
Dumpsters in the public right of way require an annual, renewable license from the Department of Licenses and Inspections.