File a Master Business Application

The Master Business Application is a simplified form used to apply for many state licenses, registrations, and permits. It is also used to apply for some city licenses.

Who should file, and when?

You must file a Master Business Application when you first start your business, or when you change or update your business. You will need to file (or re-file) if you want to:

• Get a state business license or Unified Business Identifier (UBI) number
• Get a new city or specialty license (such as a liquor license)
• Change ownership of a business
• Open or change business locations
• Register or change a trade name
• Hire employees (including minors and workers in the home)
• Change your unemployment or industrial insurance coverage

How to file

There are three ways to file the Master Business Application and supplemental forms:

File online

1. Complete the online Master Business Application.
2. Pay with a MasterCard, Visa, or American Express credit or debit card (gift cards cannot be used).

Filing online isn’t recommended for some businesses. See the list of businesses that shouldn’t file a Master Business Application online for details.

File by mail

1. Complete the Master Business Application and any supplemental forms that apply to your business. To find out which supplemental forms you’ll need, see the Business Licensing Guide.
2. Send your completed application, supplemental forms, and a check or money order payable to “Washington State Treasurer” for the fees to:
   
   Master License Service
   Department of Licensing
   PO Box 9034
   Olympia, WA 98507-9034

If your business needs specialty licenses, including liquor or lottery licenses, you should file your Master Business Application by mail.

File in person

Visit any business licensing office.

What is the fastest way to file?

Your application will be processed more quickly if you file online. Applications filed in person take about the same amount of time to process as those filed by mail.