Wedding Planner Permit Requirements in Seattle, WA

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. Washington State Business License

   All Washington businesses must obtain a Business License from the Washington State Department of Revenue. This also serves as the sales tax registration.

   Official government source

   $90 (initial filing fee)·1–3 business days (online)

   $90 (initial filing fee)

   1–3 business days (online)

2. General Liability Insurance (Recommended)

   Wedding planners in Washington 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. Seattle Business License

   All businesses operating in Seattle must obtain a general Business License from the Seattle Office of License & Tax Administration. Wedding planners operating as sole proprietors, LLCs, or corporations need this license to legally conduct business. Renewal is required annually.

   Official government source

   $100–$500/year depending on gross receipts·1–3 weeks

   $100–$500/year depending on gross receipts

   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 King 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 Seattle — Business Licensing
• Washington Secretary of State
• IRS — Apply for EIN

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