FAQs • Chesterfield County, VA • CivicEngage

If I do not renew my business license, am I considered out of business?: No, but you may be considered non-compliant. Once you have received your first business license, you are considered "in business" until you declare in writing to our office that you are "out of business."

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Commissioner of the Revenue: Business License

1. How do I pay my business tax?: The Treasurer’s office collects payment of all business taxes. You may contact their office at 804-748-1201.

2. Is there a late filing penalty for failure to file a return by the prescribed deadline?: Yes. Chesterfield County ordinance directs the Commissioner of the Revenue to impose a penalty of 10% of the tax assessable for the non-filing or late filing of a renewal/application. This penalty becomes a part of the tax due.

3. What if I have multiple locations or multiple lines of business?: Each individually licensable activity, at each business location must have a separate license.

Overnight packages for the Commissioner of the Revenue may be sent to:

Commissioner of the Revenue
Attn: Business Tax
9901 Lori Rd Rm 165
Chesterfield, VA 23832-0908

5. How do I authorize someone else to file or act for my business?: If you have a business representative visiting our offices, calling on behalf of the business, or filing online; please make sure that individual is authorized to act for the company. If that person is not the owner, an officer, or member listed on paperwork previously filed with our office, he or she should not be able to file and will not be given information regarding that business other than what is public information. Written documentation signed by the owner/officer/member of the company authorizing such action may be required. Businesses may use their own format or request a form from the Business Section.

6. Are there any additional requirements if a business is advertising to go out of business, and selling remaining inventory?: Under the Code of Virginia Section §18.2-223, it is unlawful for a retail business to advertise a “going out of business” sale without first obtaining a permit from the city, county or town where the sale will be conducted. The cost for the application is $50.00 and expires after sixty (60) days. All applications for “going out of business” permits shall be accompanied by an inventory, including the kind and quantity of all goods which are to be offered for sale during the sale and only the goods specified in the inventory list may be advertised or sold during the sale period. The license may be extended once after the initial issuance of the permit with an updated inventory list for an additional $50.00.

7. What do I need to do to close my business?: In order to close your business and end your tax liability for a specific business account, you must notify the Office of the Commissioner of the Revenue in writing. Fax, mail, or email and supply the following information: Name of the Business Owner, Trade Name of the Business, Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) or Social Security Number (SSN) associated with the accounts, and the account numbers, along with the exact date the business closed. This statement must be signed by the owner or an officer listed with our office.

8. If I do not renew my business license, am I considered out of business?: No, but you may be considered non-compliant. Once you have received your first business license, you are considered "in business" until you declare in writing to our office that you are "out of business."

9. I have concerns regarding neighbors in home business. Who should I contact?: The Chesterfield County Department of Community Enhancement allows certain businesses and occupations to be conducted in a dwelling unit provided they comply with certain restrictions. They can be reached at 804-748-1500.