BusinessState

General Contracting business requirements — Washington

What it takes to legally operate in Washington. Add your city for local permits.

Add your city for local permits

2 items below — add your city to check local permits, and we're still verifying. We show what we've confirmed and flag what we haven't rather than guess.

Formation & federal100% verified

Form an LLC (or operate as a sole proprietor)Depends on your situation

Washington LLC Articles of Organization filing fee is about $200; formation takes 2–3 business days online.

$200Verified against the official source · Sep 2026Official source ↗

Employer Identification Number (EIN)Required

Get a free EIN from the IRS

FreeVerified against the official sourceOfficial source ↗

Ongoing entity reportRequired

Washington LLCs file a annual report (about $70).

$70 · annualVerified against the official source · Sep 2026Official source ↗

Washington taxes100% verified

Sales / use tax registrationNot yet verified

Washington has a sales/use tax — register with the state tax agency before selling taxable goods or services.

Verified against the official source · Sep 2026Official source ↗

State income taxNot required

Washington has no personal income tax on individuals.

Verified against the official source · Sep 2026Official source ↗

Licenses100% verified

General Contracting occupational licenseRequired

A general contractor license is required in most states above a project threshold, typically involving an exam, proof of experience, a bond, and financial statements.

Verified against the official source · Sep 2026

Local permits0% verified

Local permitsNot yet verified

Local permits (zoning, home occupation, signage, health) are set by your city/county — tell us your city for specifics.

Not yet verified — check the official source

Insurance0% verified

General liability insuranceRecommended

General liability insurance and a surety bond are expected for general contracting work.

Not yet verified — check the official source

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