A Business Certificate is also called a “doing business as (DBA)” form. A business certificate is required if your business operates under any title other than the complete real name of the owner, whether individually or as a partnership; and if a corporation is doing business in Williamstown in a name other than the corporate name (must be filed by a corporate officer.)
File your business certificate in the city or town where your business is located.
This certificate is not a business license. It only makes a public record of the business owner’s name and address (M.G.L. ch.110 §5).
Who needs a business certificate?
If your business operates under any name different from its legal name, you need a business certificate.
For example, the owners of “Smith & Sons Accounting Services” want to operate as “FastTax Solutions.” They must file a business certificate since the business name differs from the legal business name or the name they used to incorporate.
Any subsequent business name changes will also require filing a new business certificate.
For example, if Smith & Sons Accounting Services later decides to operate as “Best Tax Solutions,” they’ll need to file a new business certificate since they’re still operating a business under a name other than its legal name.
Download Forms
Unless your form is signed in front of a notary, please do not sign the form until you apply at the Town Clerk’s Office.
Where does one file?
File with the Town Clerk, either in person or by mail, in every city or town where an office of any such person, partnership or corporation may be situated.
What about a change?
Upon discontinuing, retiring or withdrawing from the business or partnership, or in the case of a change of residence of the business or of the location where business is conducted, a form declaring the change must be filed with the office of the Town Clerk
Does a Business Certificate expire?
A business certificate is valid for four (4) years from the date of issue. A new filing must be made every four (4) years as long as business is being conducted.
Do I have to display the certificate?
No, but you must provide a copy on request, during regular business hours, to any person who has purchased goods or services from such business.
Fees
- Business Certificate or Renewal $10.00
- Changes – changes need to be made by issuing a new certificate with a new number
- Withdrawals and Discontinuances – no charge
To file by mail
- Obtain a form from website or Town Clerk’s Office.
- Complete the form except for expiration date, and signature.
- Sign business certificate form in the presence of a Notary Public or Town Clerk.
- Mail with check or money order, payable to Town of Williamstown.
- Mail to: Town Clerk, 31 North Street, Williamstown, MA 01267
Questions?
If you have questions about filing a business certificate, please call the Town Clerk at 413-217-0356.