Miami's Local Business Tax: What Every Business Needs to Know

When starting a business, there are many things to consider. An important first step is to register at the state level. In Florida, this is done at SunBiz.org. Many business owners don’t know that it is also important to register locally (at both the County and City level) and obtain your Local Business Tax Receipts.

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What is a Local Business Tax?

Simply put, a Local Business Tax (LBT) is an annual fee that allows business owners to operate locally. It is not the ONLY document that is required to legally operate but it is an important one! 

Whether you are starting a home-based business or opening a physical location, it is recommended that you pay the local business tax before starting business operations.

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County vs. City 

Depending on where your business is located within Miami-Dade County, you will most likely need a business tax at both the County and City level. For example, if you live in the City of Homestead, you will need a business tax for both Miami-Dade County AND the City of Homestead. 

However, if your business is located in an unincorporated area of Miami-Dade County, you only need one business tax from the County since you are not located within a City.

Keep in mind that not all cities operate the same way, so be sure to check with your local city for more details on what is required. 

Click here to learn more about the significance of your business address.

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How to Get Started

Before you pay your local business tax in Miami, make sure you have registered your business with the State of Florida (SunBiz.org). When completing the forms, you can expect to need the following information:

• Your social security number (if sole proprietor) or employer identification number (EIN).
• Taxpayer ID.
• Business name and address (as registered).
• Owner’s name and address.
• Type of business.
• Contact details.
• Your business' NAICS code (this helps identify which industry your business is in). 

For the Miami-Dade County LBT, if you are completing this form for the first time, use the County’s online system OR fill out a paper version to submit by mail or in-person. 

If your business operates within a City, contact your City directly or visit their website to find additional information on how to obtain the local tax receipt. 

It might take a few weeks to gather the required paperwork and submit your application, so make sure to apply well in advance of your opening day.

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Important Things to Know

• Miami-Dade County LBTs must be renewed every year that you are in business. Regardless of the date in which you applied, all LBTs expire on September 30th and need to be renewed by October 1st. 
• If you have a public business location, your LBT Receipt must be displayed at your place of business, in open view to the public. 
• You may be able to deduct your local business tax receipt from your federal taxes each year. Please speak to your tax preparer. 

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If you have questions or need help you can call Miami-Dade County's customer service line at 305-270-4949 or email local.businesstax@miamidade.gov. 

And you can always send us an email at info@axishelps.org and we can connect you with the correct resource.