Jan. 12, 2007 — New business owners may now get temporary business licenses called "Business Organization/Start Up Permits" to tide them over while they come into compliance with requirements for permanent business licenses, Licensing Commissioner Kenrick Robertson said Thursday.
"The temporary permit gives you time to get organized," he said.
Robertson said that he's received many complaints about the amount of time it takes to get a business license, so the temporary license will allow new businesses to open bank accounts, obtain leases, sign up for utilities and import equipment.
The license costs $130 and is good for six months.
Robertson said that businesses need a Trade Name Certificate or Registration of Entity from the Lieutenant Governor's office. He said they do not need to get any inspections or tax clearance letters to get the license.
He said they can apply at Licensing offices. He said that the online application process on the Licensing website still has some glitches, but his staff is working to iron them out.
Business owners may also apply at Licensing offices or online for new permanent licenses and renewals.
Robertson said he is working on a booklet that will spell out in detail what inspections are needed to get licenses for a whole range of businesses but he didn't know when the booklet would be ready.
All businesses need tax clearance letters to renew or get a new license. He said that once business owners apply for the license or renewal and pay for it, Licensing asks the Internal Revenue Bureau for a tax clearance letter. The applicant does not have to make this request.
Robertson said that business owners that need inspections by the Fire Service or Health Department must apply directly to those agencies.
Licensing phone numbers are 774-3130 on St. Thomas, 773-2226 on St. Croix, and 693-8036 on St. John.
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