Handyman Business Permit Requirements in Seattle, WA

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. Washington State Contractor Registration (L&I)

   All contractors — including handymen — who perform construction, repair, or maintenance work for compensation in Washington State must register with the Washington Department of Labor & Industries (L&I). This is called 'contractor registration' (not a license). You must have: a $6,000 continuous contractor surety bond, general liability insurance ($200,000 public liability / $50,000 property damage minimum), workers' compensation coverage if you have employees, and an active UBI number from the WA Secretary of State. Registration fee is approximately $132–$141 (varies with annual update).

   Official government source

   $132–$141 (registration fee) + surety bond (~$50–$150/year) + insurance·1–3 weeks

   $132–$141 (registration fee) + surety bond (~$50–$150/year) + insurance

   1–3 weeks

1. Seattle Business License Tax Certificate

   All businesses with a physical location in Seattle or earning income from Seattle customers must obtain a Seattle Business License Tax Certificate. This includes home-based handyman businesses. The annual fee is based on gross revenues earned in Seattle.

   Official government source

   $110/year (flat fee for gross revenue under $100,000); higher tiers for more revenue·1–2 weeks (online application)

   $110/year (flat fee for gross revenue under $100,000); higher tiers for more revenue

   1–2 weeks (online application)

Official Sources

• Washington L&I — Register as a Contractor
• Seattle — Business License Tax

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