Wedding Planner Permit Requirements in Birmingham, AL

1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

   Required if you have employees, operate as an LLC/corporation, or file certain business tax returns. Free from the IRS. Sole proprietors with no employees may use their SSN instead.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online)

   Free

   Immediate (online)

1. Alabama Business Privilege License

   All businesses operating in Alabama must obtain a Business Privilege License from their county probate judge before commencing operations.

   Official government source

   $10–$100 depending on business size·1–3 business days

   $10–$100 depending on business size

   1–3 business days

2. General Liability Insurance (Recommended)

   Wedding planners in Alabama are not legally required to carry liability insurance, but most venues require proof of $1M–$2M general liability coverage before allowing a planner to work on-site. Many clients also require it in your contract.

   $400–$1,200/year·Same day (online quotes)

   $400–$1,200/year

   Same day (online quotes)

1. Birmingham Business License

   All businesses operating in Birmingham must obtain a general Business License from the Birmingham City Clerk's Office. Wedding planners operating as sole proprietors, LLCs, or corporations need this license to legally conduct business. Renewal is required annually.

   Official government source

   $25–$100/year·1–3 weeks

   $25–$100/year

   1–3 weeks

2. DBA (Doing Business As) Registration

   If operating under a trade name (e.g., "Perfect Day Events" rather than your legal name), you must file a Fictitious Business Name (DBA) with Jefferson County. This is required before accepting payments under a business name.

   $15–$50·1–2 weeks

   $15–$50

   1–2 weeks

Official Sources

• City of Birmingham — Business Licensing
• Alabama Secretary of State
• IRS — Apply for EIN

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