FileLocal: Online Account Setup and FAQs

File Local FAQs

Who needs a business license?

A business license is generally required once a business holds itself out to the public by offering goods or services for sale or use. Simply considering or planning to open a business does not require a license.

However, if an individual takes substantial steps toward operating a business—such as creating inventory for future sale or otherwise engaging in business activities—a license may be required even if no sales have occurred yet.

More information about when a business meets the nexus for licensing and tax can be found on the Nexus page.

How do I find my City of Tacoma Account Number?

The city account number is exactly 9 digits, and it most likely starts with 5000 followed by five additional numbers. Need to locate your existing account number? Click here to search our Open Data database.

How do I renew my business license on FileLocal?

General business license renewal notices are sent in early to mid-December of each year. A paper or paperless notice is sent to all taxpayers.

To sign up for paperless notices or to update your contact information, please visit our Paperless Notices web page.

Find detailed instructions here on how to renew your business license. If you are renewing a Business License for Rental Activity, find specific renewal instructions here.

 

 

How do I link my license on FileLocal?

If you already have a City Account Number, you do not need to apply for a new license. You only need to link your existing license to your FileLocal account to use the portal. A separate or different account number is not required to file taxes, print your license, or renew your license online. Find detailed instructions here on how to link your license.

If you are unsure whether you have already registered with the City and received a City Account Number, please contact us by calling (253) 591-5252.

How do I update my business information on FileLocal?

From the FileLocal login screen, click Create Business Account and follow the on-screen instructions to set up your account. For additional help, review the Taxpayer QuickStart Guide for step-by-step instructions.

Where can I find information about regulatory licenses and regulated business activities in Tacoma?

Find information here on the Specific Business Activity web page.

If my legal entity changes, will I need a new license?

If the legal entity changed, a new application may need to be submitted. Contact us by phone at (253) 591-5252 or email taxinfo@tacoma.gov to inquire if a new application is required.

How much does a business license cost?

Find information here on the Business License Fees web page.

How do I amend a tax return?

Tax forms cannot be amended on File Local. Find information here on the City Taxes web page.

I want to change my tax filing frequency but File Local does not allow me to change it.

Contact us by phone at (253) 591-5252 or email taxinfo@tacoma.gov to inquire if your filing frequency can be changed.

How are penalties and interest calculated for delinquent returns for Tacoma?

Penalties and interest are assessed for failure to file and pay tax returns on or before the last day of the month following the end of the reporting period. If a tax return is mailed, the postmark date will be used to determine the filing date. Find more information on the City Taxes web page.

Where can I find more information on Tacoma Gambling Tax Requirements?

Find information here on the City Taxes web page.

Where can I find more information on the Tacoma Utility Tax Requirements?

Find information here on the City Taxes web page.

Where can I find more information about property tax and sales tax in Tacoma?

Property tax is administered by the Pierce County Assessor-Treasurer’s Office. For more information, visit www.piercecountywa.gov/91/Assessor—Treasurer.

Washington State sales tax is administered by the Washington State Department of Revenue. For more information, visit www.dor.wa.gov.

Why am I unable to print my license on File Local?

There are several reasons you might not be able to print your license:

1. Your license is not yet approved by the City. If you have recently applied for a license, the City may still be in the process of reviewing your application. When your City Account Number shows as “Applied For,” you cannot yet print your license. Once your application is approved, the City will assign a City Account Number. At that point, you will be able to print your license.
2. Your license is expired and due for renewal. If your license is expired, you cannot print it from the Portal. In order to print your license, check the Activity Center and pay for your renewal. Once you’ve processed the renewal, you will be able to print.
3. You haven’t yet linked your license. If you have an existing license when you set up your FileLocal account, you must link your license before you can print. Click the link option on the home page, in My Account, or on the Edit Location screen. Select the City and enter the City Account Number. Once the City verifies your City Account Number, you will be able to print your license.
4. You renewed your license outside the Portal. If you have a renewal loaded in the Portal (check the Activity Center) but you choose to pay it through the mail or in person, you will not be able to print your license through FileLocal.
5. Your account with the City is not in good standing. When you attempt to print your license, FileLocal checks with the City in real-time to see if they will allow you to print. The City will respond with a yes or no. If the City does NOT allow you to print, they should provide you with an onscreen explanation. If this is the case, you must contact the City to resolve the issue before you will be allowed to print your license through FileLocal.  Also, if the City fails to respond to the real-time inquiry, you will not be allowed to print. An onscreen message will advise you if no response was received from the City.

View Statement - it shows I have a balance, why can't I pay from this screen?

Your View Statement balance may include both items that can be paid through FileLocal and items that cannot. Currently, FileLocal only accepts payments for General Business License applications and renewals, Business & Occupation (B&O) Tax, and select city-specific taxes.

To make payments for other items, please call (253) 591-5252 and select the make a payment option.