The Complete Guide to Montana Business Licenses
Montana does not have a state business license and has no general sales tax. Licensing happens at the city and county level, plus state licenses for specific products and professions. This guide explains each step for a new Montana business.
Step 1: Form the LLC
File Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State for $35. The annual report is due by April 15, and its fee is waived for 2026 and 2027. See the Montana LLC guide for every formation step.
Step 2: City and county licenses
Montana leaves general business licensing to cities and counties. Billings, for example, requires a city license for every business and every location — including home-based businesses and outside businesses working in the city — renewed each year.
Step 3: State licenses for specific products
Montana has no general sales tax. The Department of Revenue issues specific licenses — for example for tobacco, retail food, and beer and wine — through its eStop service.
Step 4: Contractor registration and professional licenses
Construction contractors who are incorporated or have employees register with the Department of Labor and Industry; the fee is $70. DLI's Business Standards Division also licenses many professions and trades.
Hiring staff and business names
Employers register for withholding with the Department of Revenue through the TransAction Portal and for unemployment insurance with DLI. An assumed business name costs $20 with the Secretary of State and is renewed every five years for $20.
Checklist
| Registration | Agency | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Articles of Organization | Secretary of State | $35; annual report fee waived 2026–2027 |
| City business license | Your city (e.g. Billings) | Set locally |
| Contractor registration | Department of Labor and Industry | $70 |
| Assumed business name | Secretary of State | $20, every 5 years |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Montana require a business license?
There is no state business license. Cities and counties license businesses — Billings requires a license for every business — and the state licenses specific products and professions.
Does Montana have sales tax?
No. Montana has no general sales tax.
Do contractors need to register in Montana?
Yes. Construction contractors who are incorporated or have employees register with the Department of Labor and Industry for $70.
How much does it cost to form an LLC in Montana?
The Articles of Organization cost $35, and the annual report fee is waived for 2026 and 2027.
How much is a DBA in Montana?
An assumed business name costs $20 with the Secretary of State and is renewed every five years.