Billings, MT Business License Guide

Last updated: September 2025

Quick Help Box

• If you will operate inside Billings city limits (even from home), check whether you need a City business license or registration. Start at the City of Billings official website (Licenses and Permits hub) and use the site search for “Business License.” If you can’t find the right page fast, call City Hall at 406-657-8200 for routing to the correct licensing desk.
• Montana does not have a general statewide sales tax. That doesn’t remove the need for state registrations (business entity, withholding, UI, workers’ comp) or city permits. Verify the tax types that do apply to your industry (lodging, tobacco, alcohol, cannabis, short-term rentals) with the Montana Department of Revenue main site.
• Most formal businesses in Montana file with the Secretary of State. Register or search business names at the Montana Secretary of State Business Services portal. For filings and annual reports, use the online system: Montana Business Online Filing (biz.sosmt.gov).
• Food, body art, pools, and some personal services need a local health license through Yellowstone County’s health authority (RiverStone Health). Start with RiverStone Health – Environmental Health or call 406-247-3200 and ask for Environmental Health.
• Alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis require state-level licenses (plus city zoning compliance). Start with the MT Department of Revenue – Alcoholic Beverage Control and Cannabis Control Division. Confirm Billings zoning limits first at City of Billings – Planning & Community Services.
• Hiring employees? You need an EIN (free), state withholding registration, unemployment insurance, workers’ comp coverage, and new-hire reporting. Use these official hubs: IRS – Apply for EIN online, MT Dept. of Revenue – Withholding, MT Dept. of Labor & Industry – Unemployment Insurance, and Montana State Fund – Workers’ Compensation.
• Not sure which approvals you need? Call Big Sky Economic Development (BSED) in Billings for local, no-cost navigation help via their business advisors. Start at Big Sky Economic Development to find current contacts.
• Reality check: timelines vary. State filings can be same-day online; city approvals with inspections can take days to weeks. Build buffer time before your planned opening. When in doubt, call the agency and ask about current processing times.

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At-a-Glance: Do You Need a Billings Business License?

There is no Montana-wide “general business license.” In Montana, business licensing is mostly local (city/county) and industry-specific. If you will operate, sell, or routinely work inside the City of Billings, you likely need to register with the City and may need a business license/registration number along with other permits depending on your activity. Always confirm with the City, because local rules can change.

• City hub: City of Billings – Licenses & Permits (official site) — use the search box for “business license,” “home occupation,” “zoning,” or “sign permits.”
• State hub: Montana Secretary of State – Business Services — for entity setup and name registration.
• Health inspections: RiverStone Health – Environmental Health — Yellowstone County’s local health authority.
• State tax accounts (withholding, alcohol, tobacco, lodging, cannabis, etc.): Montana Department of Revenue.

Table: Quick “Which Approvals Apply to Me?” Snapshot

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you can’t confirm which City approvals you need, call 406-657-8200 and ask to be routed to Business Licensing or Planning & Community Services.
• For state-level uncertainty, call the Secretary of State Business Services or use the contact options on sosmt.gov/business. For taxes and special licenses, use the contact options on mtrevenue.gov.

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The Core Steps (Start with the biggest risk to your opening date)

1) Confirm City of Billings Requirements and Apply for the Right Local License/Registration

This is your first stop if your business will be active in Billings. Getting blocked later by zoning or inspections can derail your opening date.

• Action now: Check City licensing and zoning. Use the site search at the City of Billings official website for “Business License,” “Planning & Community Services,” “Home Occupation,” “Fire Inspection,” and “Sign Permit.”
• Call for routing if you get stuck: 406-657-8200 (City Hall main).
• Expect to provide: business name, owner details, business location/use, state entity info, and sometimes a floor plan or site plan. Home-based businesses may need a home occupation permit/review.
• Inspections and reviews: Depending on your use, the City, Fire Department, and RiverStone Health (for food/pools/body art) may review or inspect before you open.
• Fees: City license fees vary by business type and activity. Check the current fee schedule through the City’s licensing page or by calling 406-657-8200.
• Timelines: Straightforward registrations can be quick. Reviews that involve planning, fire, or health can take longer. Ask the City about current turnaround times when you apply.

Reality checks:

• Lease risk: Don’t sign a long lease or start build-out before you confirm zoning and use approvals for that address.
• Home-based limits: Home occupations are allowed but must meet neighborhood and traffic rules. Signs, parking, and deliveries may be limited.
• Mobile and temporary vendors: Extra rules can apply for mobile food and pop-ups. Confirm where you can operate and for how long.

Required documents (typical):

• Entity registration confirmation or planned business name.
• Government ID for owners.
• Site plan/floor plan (if relevant to your use).
• Proof of state professional license (if applicable).
• Proof of health plan review (for food) from RiverStone Health.

How to apply:

• Online or in person options can change. Start at the City of Billings website for the current application portal or forms. If an online “Citizen Access/Accela” portal is available, you’ll be routed there.
• If you need help mid-application, call 406-657-8200 and ask for Business Licensing or Planning & Community Services.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Can’t find the right City page or form? Call 406-657-8200.
• Unsure which permit you need? Ask to speak with Planning & Community Services for a zoning check, or the Fire Department for inspection questions via the City main line.
• For business planning support, Big Sky Economic Development’s advisors can walk you through steps: Big Sky Economic Development – Startup support.

2) Register Your Business with the Montana Secretary of State (if required)

If you’re forming an LLC, corporation, or filing an assumed business name (DBA), this is a must-do. Sole proprietors using their exact personal name may not need an SOS filing, but confirm naming rules.

• Action now: Go to the Montana Secretary of State – Business Services and file online via biz.sosmt.gov.
• Name check: Search the name before you file at biz.sosmt.gov.
• EIN: Apply free with the IRS at Apply for an EIN online (IRS). EIN issuance is usually same-day online.
• Annual Report: Most entities must file an annual report with the SOS each year. Deadlines and fees can change. Check the current rules and the due date (historically mid-April) under “Annual Reports” at SOS Business Services. Verify amounts and due dates directly on the SOS site.
• Processing times: Online filings are often fast. For paper/by-mail options, use the SOS site for current timing.

Eligibility and common choices:

• LLCs: Popular for liability protection and flexibility.
• Corporations: Consider if you plan to issue stock or seek certain tax treatments.
• Assumed Business Name (DBA): Needed if you operate under a name that isn’t your full legal name (for sole proprietors/partnerships) or differs from your registered entity name.

Required documents (typical):

• Articles of Organization (LLC) or Articles of Incorporation (Corp), or Assumed Business Name application.
• Registered agent in Montana.
• Owner/manager information.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Use the “Contact” options on SOS Business Services to reach the right team.
• If you get an online system error at startup, try again off-peak hours or call the SOS help line listed on their contact page.

3) Zoning, Location, and Home Occupation Rules in Billings

Before you sign a lease, install signs, or accept deliveries, confirm that your business use is allowed at your address.

• Action now: Contact the City’s Planning & Community Services through the City of Billings website. Ask for a zoning/use check for your specific address.
• Home-based businesses: Search for “Home Occupation” on the City site. Expect rules on customer visits, signage, traffic, deliveries, and noise.
• Sign permits: Most exterior signs need City approval. Factor sign review time into your opening timeline.
• Change of use: If you’re moving into a space with a different use than the prior tenant (for example, retail to restaurant), plan for more review and possible code upgrades.

Required documents (typical):

• Address and suite number.
• Floor plan/site plan.
• Description of operations (hours, customers on-site, deliveries).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re getting mixed answers, request a zoning verification in writing via the Planning & Community Services contact on the City site. Keep emails and letters for your records.
• If the site won’t work for your use, ask the City for zones that do allow your use and look nearby for an easier address. Involve your broker/landlord early.

4) Industry-Specific Licenses and Inspections (Billings + State of Montana)

Start with the highest-risk items for your industry. Food, alcohol, and cannabis carry the strictest controls.

• Food and beverage (restaurants, food trucks, coffee, catering)
  • Start with RiverStone Health (Yellowstone County’s health department) for plan review, licensing, and inspections: RiverStone Health – Environmental Health. Phone: 406-247-3200 (ask for Environmental Health).
  • State taxes: Montana taxes lodging and certain rentals, and has no general sales tax. If you sell alcohol or tobacco, separate state licenses and taxes apply via Montana Department of Revenue.
  • Timeline: Plan for weeks for plan review and equipment/layout checks. Don’t buy equipment that won’t pass local code.
• Alcohol (bar, restaurant, brewery, retail)
  • State license required via the MT Department of Revenue’s Alcoholic Beverage Control Division. Start at the DOR main site and follow the Alcoholic Beverage Control section for application forms, quotas, and compliance steps.
  • Local zoning and location rules apply. Confirm allowed locations with the City Planning Division early at City of Billings.
  • Costs and timelines vary widely, especially if you must purchase an existing quota license on the private market. Verify all amounts and steps with DOR.
• Cannabis (dispensary, cultivation, manufacturing)
  • Licensed by the Montana Department of Revenue’s Cannabis Control Division. Begin at mtrevenue.gov under Cannabis Control for license types, background checks, METRC tracking, and local authorization.
  • Billings has zoning restrictions for cannabis. Confirm site eligibility with the City Planning Division well before a lease.
  • Expect a months-long process. Build a buffer for inspections, background checks, and local approvals.
• Body art, pools, spas, and certain personal services
  • Health licensing/permits may be required and overseen locally by RiverStone Health. Use RiverStone Health – Environmental Health or call 406-247-3200.
  • Some professions require state licensure through the MT Department of Labor & Industry. Check your board at MT DLI – Professional & Occupational Licensing.
• Lodging and short-term rentals
  • Montana taxes lodging and certain accommodations. Confirm filing and registration requirements with the Montana Department of Revenue. Billings does not levy a general sales tax.
  • Life-safety inspections (fire, building) may apply for hotels, motels, and STRs within the City. Ask the City via 406-657-8200 about current inspection requirements before booking your first guest.
• Construction contractors and trades
  • Montana Department of Labor & Industry handles contractor registration and the Independent Contractor Exemption Certificate (ICEC). Start at MT DLI – Contractor Resources.
  • City building permits and inspections are required for many projects. See City of Billings – Building Division and ask about your specific project.
• Child care
  • State licensing is required through the MT Department of Public Health & Human Services’ Child Care Licensing. Start at Montana DPHHS – Child Care Licensing.
  • City zoning and inspections for childcare locations apply. Verify spacing, drop-off/pickup traffic, and safety compliance with the City.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you can’t find a clear checklist, call the relevant agency’s main number (City Hall 406-657-8200; RiverStone Health 406-247-3200) and ask for the program desk that handles your business type.
• For complex launches (alcohol, cannabis, large restaurants), schedule a pre-application meeting with City staff and RiverStone Health to map out sequence and timing.

5) State Tax Accounts You Might Need

Montana does not have a general statewide sales tax. That said, many businesses still need state tax accounts.

• Employer withholding: If you have employees, you must register for Montana employer withholding with the Department of Revenue. Start at Montana Department of Revenue – Withholding.
• Unemployment insurance (UI): Employers must register with the Montana Department of Labor & Industry’s UI division. Start here: Montana UI eServices for Employers.
• Workers’ compensation: Most employers must carry workers’ comp. Many choose Montana State Fund. See: Montana State Fund.
• Alcohol and tobacco taxes: If you sell regulated products, you must obtain state licenses and handle relevant taxes. Start at Montana Department of Revenue.
• Lodging facility taxes: If you provide lodging, you must register and remit lodging-related taxes through the Department of Revenue. See Montana Department of Revenue. Rates can change; verify current amounts for your category.
• Cannabis taxes: Cannabis licensees must register and remit state cannabis taxes. Start at the Cannabis Control area at Montana Department of Revenue.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Use the contact pages at mtrevenue.gov and uid.dli.mt.gov to reach a live agent. If you have a local accountant, ask them to help register these accounts in the correct order.

6) Employer Basics in Montana (Only If You’re Hiring)

Do this before your first payday to avoid penalties.

• Get an EIN (free) at the IRS: Apply for an EIN online. EIN issuance is typically immediate online and costs $0.
• Register for Montana employer withholding: Use the employer resources and e-filing options at Montana Department of Revenue.
• Register for Unemployment Insurance (UI): Employers register and file/pay through Montana UI eServices for Employers.
• Workers’ compensation coverage: Get a quote and bind coverage before your first employee works. See Montana State Fund and/or your insurance broker.
• New-hire reporting: Montana employers must report newly hired and rehired employees generally within a short window (commonly within 20 days, verify current requirement). Check current instructions via DPHHS – Child Support Services for links to the State New Hire Reporting system.
• Required labor posters: Federal and Montana posters must be displayed where employees can see them. Check the current poster lists at U.S. Department of Labor – Poster Advisor and MT DLI – Labor Standards.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If UI or withholding registrations won’t process, call the agency contact numbers listed on the respective websites (DOR and DLI).
• For workers’ comp questions, call your agent or the Montana State Fund contact center listed on their website.

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Realistic Timelines (Billings + Montana)

Processing times can shift based on staffing and volume. Use this as a planning tool, not a promise.

Table: Typical Sequence and Estimated Timeframes

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask the agency for current average times and whether an expedited option exists. Submit complete, legible, signed documents to avoid resets.
• Build at least a few weeks of buffer into your opening plan, more for alcohol and cannabis.

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Costs and Budgeting for Compliance

Your final costs depend on your entity type, local license category, professional licenses, health permits, and insurance. Confirm amounts directly with each authority before you set prices or sign contracts.

• Entity filing fees and annual report fees: Check the current amounts at Montana Secretary of State – Business Services. Fees can differ for LLCs, corporations, and assumed business names.
• City of Billings license fees: Check the City’s current fee schedule via the City licensing page or call 406-657-8200.
• Health permits (RiverStone Health): Fee schedules vary by category (e.g., restaurant, mobile food, temporary food). Get current fees via RiverStone Health – Environmental Health or call 406-247-3200.
• Workers’ comp: Premiums vary by payroll, class codes, and experience. Get a quote at Montana State Fund.
• Alcohol/cannabis licenses: Significant costs and transfer prices can apply. Confirm all amounts at Montana Department of Revenue before proceeding.

Table: Cost Planning Worksheet (fill in with current quotes)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you cannot locate a current fee list, call the agency’s main number or scheduling desk and request a written quote or link to the fee schedule.

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Documents You’ll Likely Need (Keep a digital folder)

• Government photo ID for all owners/managers.
• Business plan, floor plan, or site plan (as needed for zoning/health/fire).
• Entity documents (Articles, Operating Agreement, or ABN/DBA filings from the SOS).
• EIN confirmation letter (IRS).
• Lease or proof of property control.
• Certificates of insurance (workers’ comp, liability).
• Professional licenses (if your trade or profession requires it).
• Any health department approvals or plan reviews (food/body art/pools).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re missing a document, ask the agency if a temporary placeholder is acceptable and for how long. Keep all correspondence.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Signing a lease before confirming zoning and use approvals for your exact address.
• Buying equipment before you get health plan review approval (food service).
• Assuming Montana’s lack of general sales tax means no tax accounts are needed.
• Skipping workers’ comp when hiring “part-time” or “on-call” staff.
• Forgetting the annual report with the Secretary of State.
• Not reporting new hires on time.
• Operating a mobile business without confirming where you can and cannot vend.
• Ordering exterior signage before you secure a sign permit.
• Underestimating alcohol/cannabis licensing timelines and local zoning limits.
• Not keeping copies of all submitted forms, permits, and approvals.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’ve already made a misstep, call the relevant agency, explain the situation, and ask for corrective steps. Fixing it early is cheaper than later.

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Real-World Examples (Billings-Focused)

• Mobile coffee trailer
  • Steps that mattered most: site permissions for daily locations, RiverStone Health plan review, City verification for mobile vending, fire safety.
  • Pitfalls: buying a trailer layout that fails handwashing or refrigeration standards; parking where vending isn’t allowed.
  • Pro tip: before ordering the build, submit your plan to RiverStone Health and confirm power/water/trash logistics at planned sites.
• Home-based Etsy seller (Billings address)
  • Steps that mattered most: City home occupation rules, SOS filing for an LLC (optional), EIN for marketplace tax reporting, tracking shipping/deliveries.
  • Pitfalls: unapproved signage, excess deliveries affecting neighbors.
  • Pro tip: email Planning for a quick home occupation read on your specific craft/volume.
• Neighborhood hair studio (by appointment)
  • Steps that mattered most: Montana Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists licensing, City use review/home occupation (if at home), RiverStone Health (if applicable to sanitation), and state employer accounts.
  • Pitfalls: setting up a “studio” in a space not zoned for customers or not meeting bathroom/ventilation standards.
  • Pro tip: Ask the City if your use needs a commercial space instead, and confirm parking minimums.
• Small lunch cafe downtown
  • Steps that mattered most: RiverStone Health plan review and inspections, City business license and sign permit, Fire Department occupancy review, withholding/UI/worker’s comp.
  • Pitfalls: tight timelines for plan review; discovering vent hood or grease interceptor needs mid-build.
  • Pro tip: schedule a pre-construction meeting with City, Fire, and RiverStone Health to confirm the path before you spend money.

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Inclusivity, Diversity, and Accessibility Resources (Montana + Billings)

If you identify with any of the groups below, these resources can help with training, certification, and contracting.

• Women-owned businesses
  • Certification: SBA Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Program — federal contracting eligibility and free certification portal.
  • Training: Montana’s SBA partners (SBDC/WBC) provide free counseling. Start at SBA – Montana District Office.
• Minority-owned businesses
  • Certification: National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) — private-sector supplier diversity.
  • Transportation contracting: Montana Department of Transportation – DBE Program — certification for highway-related work; use MDT’s site to reach the DBE office.
• Veteran-owned businesses
  • Certification: SBA Veteran Small Business Certification (VetCert) — for VA/SBA set-asides and sole-source awards.
  • Support: Connect with SBA’s Veterans Business Outreach Centers via SBA – Veteran-owned business.
• LGBTQ+-owned businesses
  • Certification: NGLCC – National LGBT Chamber of Commerce — widely recognized private-sector certification and supplier diversity network.
• Disability-owned businesses
  • Certification: Disability:IN – Disability-Owned Business Enterprise (DOBE) — private-sector supplier inclusion.
  • Support services: Montana Vocational Rehabilitation & Blind Services can advise on workplace accommodations and entrepreneurship. Start at MT DPHHS – Vocational Rehabilitation and Blind Services.
• Immigrant-owned businesses and language access
  • Language help: Many Montana agencies can arrange interpreter services on request. When you call or visit, ask for language assistance and your preferred language.
  • Legal help and compliance: Use official agency websites and ask for translated forms or interpreter support when available.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re unsure which certification helps your goals (government vs. corporate contracts), schedule a free consult with your local SBDC or SBA resource partner via SBA – Montana District Office.

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Local and State Contacts You’ll Use Often

Table: Key Agencies and How to Reach Them

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If a phone queue is long, use the agency’s contact form or email listed on their site. Keep a record of your request and follow up in 48–72 hours if you don’t hear back.

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Step-by-Step: How to Apply (Condensed Checklists)

These checklists prioritize actions that most often delay openings.

• City of Billings licensing and zoning
  • Confirm your address is eligible for your use with Planning & Community Services (City site or 406-657-8200).
  • If home-based, review home occupation rules and apply if needed.
  • Apply for City business license/registration via the City portal or form.
  • Ask if Fire inspection is required for your use. Schedule early.
  • Apply for sign permit before ordering signs.
  • If food-related, coordinate with RiverStone Health for plan review.
• Montana Secretary of State
  • Search name at biz.sosmt.gov.
  • File your entity or assumed business name.
  • Mark your annual report due date in your calendar.
• Taxes and employer accounts
  • Apply for EIN (free) at the IRS online.
  • Register for employer withholding (DOR) and UI (DLI) if you’ll hire.
  • Set up workers’ comp coverage before your first employee works.
  • If lodging, alcohol, tobacco, or cannabis is involved, register with DOR for the right tax and license accounts.
• Health, professional, and industry-specific approvals
  • Submit plans to RiverStone Health for food-related operations.
  • Confirm professional licensing with the relevant MT DLI board.
  • For alcohol/cannabis, request a pre-application consult with DOR and the City for zoning/site viability.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask the City for a single point-of-contact for your case (especially for multi-agency projects). Keep that person in the loop as you check off each step.

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“If-Then” Paths for Common Billings Business Types

Table: Triggered Approvals by Business Scenario

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Reality Checks, Warnings, and Tips

• Don’t underestimate build-out costs in older spaces. Upgrades for accessibility, ventilation, and fire safety add up.
• A “previous use” at your address doesn’t guarantee you can do the same thing now. Codes change.
• For alcohol and cannabis, budget months for approvals and consider site control clauses that let you exit if permits aren’t approved.
• For food, plan review happens before equipment is purchased and installed. Submit complete plans to avoid rework.
• Keep your annual SOS report due date in your calendar with reminders 30 days and 7 days before due.
• Scan all permits and keep a cloud folder so you can respond fast during inspections or renewals.

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What to Do If You’re Stuck or Behind Schedule

• Call the City main line at 406-657-8200 and ask for the specific desk you need (Business Licensing, Planning, Building, Fire).
• For food/health permits, call RiverStone Health at 406-247-3200 and ask for Environmental Health.
• For entity filings and annual reports, use the support options at sosmt.gov/business.
• For DOR tax and license accounts, use the contact options at mtrevenue.gov.
• For hiring roadblocks (UI/workers’ comp), use uid.dli.mt.gov and Montana State Fund.
• If you need hands-on coaching, schedule a meeting with a local advisor through SBA – Montana District Office or Big Sky Economic Development via bigskyeconomicdevelopment.org.

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Frequently Asked Questions (Montana + Billings)

• Does Billings require a general business license for all businesses?
  • Billings regulates most business activity inside city limits and may require a business license/registration plus zoning verification. Confirm the current rule at the City of Billings website or call 406-657-8200. Requirements can differ by business type and location.
• Does Montana have a state sales tax?
  • Montana is one of the few states without a general statewide sales tax. That said, industry-specific taxes (e.g., lodging, alcohol, tobacco, cannabis) still apply. Verify your tax obligations with the Montana Department of Revenue.
• When is the Montana annual report due for LLCs and corporations?
  • Annual report rules and deadlines can change. Historically, annual reports have been due in the spring. Check the current deadline and fee on the Montana Secretary of State – Business Services.
• Do I need a health inspection to sell food in Billings?
  • If you’re operating a restaurant, food truck, or catering business, yes—plan review and inspections are handled locally by RiverStone Health. Start at RiverStone Health – Environmental Health or call 406-247-3200.
• How long does it take to get an alcohol license in Montana?
  • Timelines vary widely and can run weeks to months. Quota areas like Billings often require purchasing or transferring an existing license. Start at Montana Department of Revenue – Alcoholic Beverage Control and confirm current steps.
• Do home-based businesses in Billings need a permit?
  • Many do. Check the “Home Occupation” rules and apply if needed via the City. Start at City of Billings – official site or call 406-657-8200.
• How soon do I need workers’ comp when I hire?
  • Before your first employee starts work. Contact Montana State Fund for coverage options or speak with your insurance agent.
• Do I have to report new hires in Montana?
  • Yes. Employers must report new and rehired employees within a short period (commonly 20 days, verify current rule). Check the latest process via DPHHS – Child Support Services.
• I’m just doing online sales. Do I still need to register?
  • If you’re operating from a Billings address, check City home occupation rules. For the state, consider an SOS filing (LLC/Corp/DBA) and obtain an EIN for tax reporting. Links: City of Billings, SOS – Business Services, IRS EIN.
• Where can I get free help with a Billings business plan and permits?
  • Start with Big Sky Economic Development and the SBA Montana District Office. They offer no-cost advising and can point you to the right City/State contacts.

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Tables You Can Print and Use

Table: City vs. State – Who Handles What?

Table: Pre-Opening Checklist by Week (Adjust to Your Project)

Table: Paperwork Bucket List (Keep in a Shared Folder)

Table: Who to Call When (Print and pin it)

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What to Do If This Doesn’t Work (Plan B Options by Topic)

• City approvals delayed
  • Ask for a status update and whether anything is missing. Request a checklist of outstanding items. Consider a pre-opening walk-through with inspectors.
• Health plan review issues
  • Request a call with the reviewer to go line-by-line on corrections. Ask for sample plan sheets or templates.
• SOS or IRS issues
  • For the SOS, use the contact form and ask for a callback. For the IRS EIN, try again next business day or use the fax/mail options listed on the IRS site.
• Employer accounts delayed
  • Keep proof of your application submission. If payroll is near, talk to a payroll provider that can help expedite account setups.
• Alcohol/cannabis barriers
  • Ask DOR and City staff whether a different license type or site has a clearer path. Consider a consultant who specializes in that license category.
• Budget overruns
  • Re-scope the build-out, negotiate with your landlord, and seek local grants or microloans via SBA partners listed at SBA – Montana District Office.

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Sources and Citations (verify before you rely)

• City of Billings – official website and site search for licensing, planning, permits, and fire: City of Billings. Use the internal search for the latest forms, fee schedules, and contacts. Verified September 2025.
• RiverStone Health (Yellowstone County public health authority) for Environmental Health licenses and inspections: RiverStone Health – Environmental Health. Verified September 2025.
• Montana Secretary of State – Business Services (entity filings, annual reports): SOS – Business Services and online filing at biz.sosmt.gov. Verified September 2025.
• Montana Department of Revenue – business taxes, withholding, alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, lodging: Montana Department of Revenue. Verified September 2025.
• Montana Department of Labor & Industry – Unemployment Insurance and professional/occupational licensing: DLI – Main site and UI eServices. Verified September 2025.
• Montana State Fund – workers’ compensation: Montana State Fund. Verified September 2025.
• SBA – Montana District Office – local advisors and resource partners: SBA Montana District. Verified September 2025.
• IRS – Obtain an EIN online (free): IRS – Apply for EIN. Verified September 2025.

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About This Guide

• This guide focuses on practical steps and verified official sources for starting and licensing a business in Billings, Montana.
• Links point to official government agencies or widely recognized statewide/local authorities. For each claim that needs facts or law, we refer you directly to an official page so you can confirm the current rule.
• Fees, deadlines, and processes change. Use the linked official sources and phone numbers to confirm details before you spend money or commit to a location.

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Disclaimer

This guide is for general information only and is not legal, tax, or compliance advice. Program rules, fees, taxes, deadlines, and eligibility criteria change. Always confirm current requirements with the relevant agency using the official resources linked above or by calling the listed numbers (for the City of Billings: 406-657-8200; for RiverStone Health: 406-247-3200). If you have specific legal or tax questions, consult a licensed attorney or CPA in Montana.