Start a Business in Memphis

Permits, costs, timeline, and step-by-step requirements.

✔ 4 permits⏱ 2-6 weeks💰 $15–$100

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Overview

Starting a business in Memphis requires a Business Tax License through the Division of Finance, Revenue Office. Base fee: $15–$100. GCC revises fees regularly. Known for significant fee increases.

Required Permits

✓Federal: EIN from IRS (free, instant online)

✓State: LLC/Corp filing + seller's permit/sales tax registration

✓County: health department permit + fire inspection

✓City: business licence/tax certificate

Step-by-Step Process

Federal: EIN from IRS (free, instant online)

State: LLC/Corp filing + seller's permit/sales tax registration

County: health department permit + fire inspection

City: business licence/tax certificate

Costs

Estimated total: $15–$100 depending on permits and inspections.

General Business$15–$100

Restaurant$50–$300

Contact

Division of Finance, Revenue Office

Phone: 901-636-6200

Apply Online →

Common Mistakes

⚠ Same TN two-tier license system as Nashville

⚠ Shelby County separate from Memphis city

⚠ No state income tax

⚠ Beale Street entertainment district has specific requirements

⚠ Tennessee has no state income tax on wages but requires business tax registration at the state level

Choose Your Business Type

Restaurant Food Truck Barber Shop Retail Store Coffee Shop Bar / Nightclub Gym / Fitness Studio Nail Salon Cannabis Dispensary Dog Grooming Bakery Cleaning Service Daycare Center Auto Repair Shop

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