Wedding Planner Permit Requirements in New York City, NY

Complete permit and license guide for starting a wedding planner in New York City, New York County, New York.

$100 -- $600 1–3 weeks to obtain all required licenses 6 requirements

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .

New York City / New York County Requirements

2 requirements
1

New York City Business License

All businesses operating in New York City must obtain a general Business License from the New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection. Wedding planners operating as sole proprietors, LLCs, or corporations need this license to legally conduct business. Renewal is required annually.

$100–$500/year depending on gross receipts1–3 weeks
Official government source
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 New York County. This is required before accepting payments under a business name.

$15–$501–2 weeks
Official government source

New York State Requirements

3 requirements
1

New York Certificate of Authority (Sales Tax)

Required for businesses selling taxable goods or services in New York. Register with the NY State Department of Taxation and Finance. Must register at least 20 days before making taxable sales.

FreeImmediate (online)
Official government source
2

New York Certificate of Authority (if selling goods)

Wedding planners who sell taxable goods in New York must obtain a Certificate of Authority from the NY Department of Taxation and Finance.

FreeImmediate (online)
Official government source
3

General Liability Insurance (Recommended)

Wedding planners in New York 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/yearSame day (online quotes)
Official government source

Federal Requirements

1 requirement
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.

FreeImmediate (online)
Official government source

Official Sources

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