I'm a freelance graphic designer in Boston and just formed a single-member LLC. Do I need a general business license to operate as a freelancer in Massachusetts? Some sources say no, but I want to be sure before I start invoicing clients. Any firsthand experience?
Licensing
Does a Massachusetts LLC need a business license to work as a freelancer?
No state-level general business license in MA. But Boston has its own business certificate requirement (the old "dba" filing) through the city clerk. If you're in Boston proper, check that.
this gets asked a lot. MA doesn't issue a blanket business license. Your LLC formation is enough at the state level. Local city/town rules may require a business certificate if you're operating under a name different from your own. Since you're an LLC, that's likely already handled. Also check zoning if you work from home.
I've been freelancing in MA for 3 years and never got a "business license." Just registered the LLC and pay taxes. No one's asked.
DoodleBop's experience is common but not universal. Some cities (Cambridge, Somerville) have stricter local requirements. What kind of freelance work are you doing? If it's design, probably low risk. If you were doing something regulated (trades, childcare, food), different story.
Thanks for the Replies. I'm in Boston (Jamaica Plain). I'll look into the city clerk business certificate. My LLC name is different from my personal name, so maybe that's already covered by the LLC filing?
Actually the Boston business certificate is separate from the LLC filing. If you're doing business under a name other than your own personal name, you need the certificate even if it's an LLC. It's like $50 and and you publish a notice in a newspaper. Annoying but quick.
cranberrysauce is right. The LLC name is the legal entithy, but the business certificate is a city-level dba registration. Small fee, one-time. Not a big deal.
Newspaper notice? What year is it? 😂