Handyman Business Permit Requirements in Philadelphia, PA

1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

   Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online application)

   Free

   Immediate (online application)

1. Pennsylvania Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) Registration

   Any contractor who performs home improvement work worth $5,000 or more per year in Pennsylvania must register with the PA Office of Attorney General as a Home Improvement Contractor. This is a statewide requirement that applies to handymen doing regular home improvement work. Fee: $100 per two-year period.

   Official government source

   $100 (every 2 years)·2–4 weeks

   $100 (every 2 years)

   2–4 weeks

1. Philadelphia Commercial Activity License

   All businesses operating in Philadelphia must obtain a Commercial Activity License (CAL) from the Department of Licenses & Inspections. This is Philadelphia's general business license and is required before conducting any business in the city. Handymen must obtain this license.

   Official government source

   $300/year·1–2 weeks

   $300/year

   1–2 weeks

2. Philadelphia Contractor License

   The City of Philadelphia requires contractors — including handymen performing home improvement work — to obtain a City contractor license to pull permits. The license fee is $116/year. You must also carry general liability insurance ($300,000 minimum) and workers' compensation if you have employees.

   Official government source

   $116/year·2–4 weeks

   $116/year

   2–4 weeks

Official Sources

• City of Philadelphia — Commercial Activity License
• City of Philadelphia — Home Improvement Contractor Permits
• PA Office of Attorney General — HIC Registration

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