The Master Business Application is a simplified application used to apply for many state licenses, registrations and permits, and some city licenses. You may use the Master Business Application to:
apply for a Washington State Unified Business Identifier (UBI) number or tax registration number.
open or reopen a business.
change ownership of a business.
open a new business location.
change business locations.
register or change a trade name.
hire employees.
get a Minor Work Permit.
add licenses to an existing business location.
get optional insurance coverage for the business owner.
hire persons to work in or around your home.
The Unified Business Identifier Number (UBI) can be used to identify your business account with many different agencies.
A UBI number is a 9-digit number that registers you with several state agencies and allows you to do business in Washington State. A UBI number is sometimes called a tax registration number, a business registration number, and a business license number. Use the Master Business Application to apply for a UBI number.
Note: 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.
There is a $15 processing fee for the Master Business Application. You must also pay different fees associated with the various licenses, registrations, or permits you may need for your particular business. For more information, see the License Fee Sheet.
Yes. Although there are over 100 state licenses that can be obtained by using the Master Business Application, your business may have additional local, state, or federal licensing requirements. The Business Licensing Guide will provide you with information to identify those additional requirements.
Get information and forms based on your business activity from the Business Licensing Guide or call Master License Service at (360) 664-1400.
Send the Master Business Application, any required addenda, the $15 processing fee and any other licensing fees to:
Master License Service
Department of Licensing
PO Box 9048
Olympia, WA 98507-9048
Note: If the license you want is not available through Master License Service, contact the agencies, cities, or counties listed on your Business Licensing Guide sheet.
Sole proprietors who are not employers usually do not have to apply for a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN). However, all other business types must apply for this registration whether they have employees or not. For more information about who needs an EIN or how to apply, visit the Internal Revenue Service.
Yes, we can also provide information about corporations or individuals conducting business under a trade name, or verify the existence of a business.
To request a search by mail, send us a letter with your return address, a list of the names you want to research, and a check or money order to pay the search fee. The cost is $4 to search up to 3 names. Send your letter to:
Master License Service
Department of Licensing
PO Box 9048
Olympia, WA 98507-9048
To look up business information online, go to:
Business and Professional License Search — If your search result is “No matches were found for your search,” try spelling the name differently or leave out abbreviations or punctuation such as Inc, LLC, etc.
Washington State Department of Revenue — This online database search is intended for use by the general public as a consumer protection program, and includes some trade names.