Kansas City, MO Business License Guide

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The Ultimate Kansas City, Missouri Business License Guide (2025)

Last updated: August 2025

This guide walks you step-by-step through getting a business license in Kansas City, Missouri (KCMO), plus the other government registrations, inspections, and taxes most Kansas City small businesses need. It links directly to official city and state sources and flags the common snags that slow people down.

Quick help (save these)

At-a-glance: the fastest path to being legal

If you need the punch-list, here it is. Then we go deeper with details and links.

Stage What to do Where Cost Typical timing
Pick/legalize your entity Form an LLC/corp or register a fictitious name (DBA) if using a trade name Missouri SOS filings LLC online filing is 50∗∗;FictitiousNameis∗∗50**; Fictitious Name is **7 (see SOS fee schedule) Online approvals often same day to 2 business days
Get tax IDs IRS EIN and Missouri tax registration (sales/use, withholding if hiring) IRS EIN; MyTax Missouri EIN 0∗∗;DORregistrationgenerally∗∗0**; DOR registration generally **0 (security/bond may be required in some cases per DOR) EIN instant online; DOR 1–10 business days
Check zoning/occupancy Confirm your location is allowed and obtain Certificate of Occupancy if needed CompassKC Fees vary by permit; see Planning & Development Simple changes 1–2 weeks; buildouts take longer
Apply for KCMO Business License Register and file via Quick Tax Quick Tax Fees vary by business classification. See official fee schedule in Quick Tax If no inspections needed, often 1–3 business days after complete application
Industry-specific permits Food, liquor, contractor, child care, STRs, mobile food, etc. See sections below (Health, Regulated Industries, CompassKC) Fees vary; see linked official fee pages Plan for 2–8+ weeks when inspections or hearings apply
Local taxes Set up the KCMO 1% Earnings Tax withholding/net profits Quick Tax 1% city tax on wages and net profits (see KCMO Earnings Tax) Registration minutes; filings per schedule

Sources: Missouri SOS, IRS, Missouri DOR, KCMO – Planning & Development, KCMO Quick Tax, KCMO Finance – Earnings Tax. Sources last reviewed August 2025.

Start here: confirm you need a Kansas City, MO business license

Action first:

  • If you are doing business in Kansas City, MO city limits—home-based, storefront, mobile, or remote but operating from an address in KCMO—you generally need a KCMO Business License. Apply and manage it in the Quick Tax portal.

Why it matters:

  • Kansas City enforces licensing by address, not just by whether you have a storefront. The city’s 1% Earnings Tax also applies if you live or work inside KCMO. See KCMO Finance – Earnings Tax for who must file.
  • KCMO crosses four counties (Jackson, Clay, Platte, Cass). County lines don’t change your need for a city license if you are inside city limits. Use the KCMO Address Lookup to confirm your address is within KCMO.

Real-world example:

  • A freelance designer works from a home office near Waldo. She has no storefront. Because her home is in KCMO, she needs a city Business License and must file the city’s 1% Earnings Tax. She does not need a state sales tax license unless she sells taxable goods or certain taxable services. See DOR – Sales/Use Tax.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If Quick Tax says you’re outside the city but you believe you are in KCMO, verify using the KCMO Property Search map and contact 311 at 816-513-1313 to confirm the boundary.
  • If you conduct work both in KCMO and outside, you may still need the business license for activity inside city limits and must handle the 1% Earnings Tax withholding/refunds correctly. Review guidance in KCMO Earnings Tax FAQs.

Step 1: Register your business with the State of Missouri (entity + name)

Do this before applying for your city license.

Key facts and figures (official):

  • Missouri LLC online filing fee is $50. See SOS Fee Schedule (official State fee schedule; last reviewed Aug. 2025).
  • Registering a Fictitious Name (DBA) in Missouri costs $7. See SOS Fictitious Name info and Fees.
  • Foreign (out-of-state) entities doing business in Missouri must register to do business in Missouri (“foreign qualification”). Fees vary by entity; see SOS Fees.
  • You can search existing names at the SOS Business Entity Search.

Documents you’ll likely need:

  • Owner/officer information.
  • Missouri registered agent details.
  • Business address in Kansas City, MO (or other Missouri address if not yet leased—update later).

Tips and reality checks:

  • Don’t skip the fictitious name if you’re a sole proprietor using any name other than your personal name. Banks usually need the filed DBA to open a business account. See SOS – Start a Business.
  • If you’re leasing space soon, you can still file the entity first and update the address when finalized.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

Step 2: Get your tax IDs (IRS + Missouri DOR)

You’ll need these for your city license and bank accounts.

Which state tax accounts you might need (official guidance):

What to do if this doesn’t work:

Step 3: Verify zoning and occupancy (before you sign a lease or start work)

This is where many startups hit delays. Confirm your location works for your use.

  • Check zoning, review needed permits, and apply for Certificate of Occupancy in CompassKC. The City Planning & Development department maintains requirements and processes at Planning & Development.

What to check:

  • Is your planned use allowed in the building’s zoning district?
  • Does your space need building permits for remodels or a new layout?
  • Will you need a Fire inspection (e.g., assembly, commercial kitchen, fuel-powered vehicles inside, or mobile food unit)?
  • For home-based businesses: review home occupation rules. See KCMO Planning & Development – Home Occupations (navigate to zoning/home occupation guidance).

Documents you may need:

  • Floor plan layout.
  • Intended use description (e.g., “coffee shop with seating for 20”).
  • Lease or property owner consent.
  • Contractor/trade licenses if doing buildout (see “Contractors” below).

Real-world example:

  • A hair salon takes over a former retail boutique. Even if plumbing and electrical seem “fine,” you cannot open until the city issues a new Certificate of Occupancy for “personal services” and passes inspections. Plan for at least 2–6 weeks depending on buildout. Source: KCMO Planning & Development.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Ask for help early from Kansas City BizCare and file a pre-application or zoning verification in CompassKC.
  • Call 311 at 816-513-1313 and ask for City Planning & Development assistance for your address and intended use.

Step 4: Apply for your Kansas City, MO Business License

This is the city license itself.

Key points:

  • License classifications and fees depend on your business type. The official fee schedule is inside the application process and on city finance pages. See KCMO Business License info – Finance/Revenue and the Quick Tax portal.
  • Expect to provide: EIN/SSN, Missouri Tax ID (if applicable), business entity details, ownership roster, physical address, and any required occupancy/health/liquor/trade license approvals depending on your industry.
  • You must be current on city taxes to issue or renew a license. If you owe back Earnings Tax or other city taxes, resolve it via Quick Tax.

Renewals and timing:

  • Licenses renew annually. The city assigns your license term and renewal date. Log in to Quick Tax to see your specific renewal deadline and pay on time.
  • If your business requires inspections (e.g., food service), allow extra time. Some licenses cannot be issued until inspector approvals post to your record.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If the portal flags a tax delinquency, contact the Finance/Revenue Division through Quick Tax support or call 311 at 816-513-1313 to be routed to Revenue.
  • If your classification or fees are unclear, contact BizCare for a review and warm handoff to the Business License unit.

Step 5: Industry-specific city and state permits (only if they apply to you)

Get these moving early. Some require plan review, hearings, or background checks.

Food and beverage (restaurants, food trucks, catering)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Schedule a pre-opening inspection walk-through with the Health Department via the Food Protection Program page. For process issues or delays, ask BizCare to coordinate across departments.

Personal services (salons, barbers, esthetics, massage)

  • State professional licenses are required for many personal services. See the Missouri Division of Professional Registration: Cosmetology & Barber Examiners and Massage Therapy.
  • City licensing still applies (KCMO Business License) plus occupancy and any remodel permits via CompassKC.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If state licensing timelines are a barrier, contact your board directly from the official pages above and consider temporary staffing options that comply with state rules.

Contractors and construction trades

  • Kansas City, MO requires certain contractor and trade licenses/registrations for work inside city limits (e.g., general building contractor registrations, and licensing for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing trades). Start at KCMO City Planning & Development – Permits & Contractor Info and file/license via CompassKC.
  • Pull required building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits before starting work. Inspections are scheduled in CompassKC.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • For code questions, request a preliminary meeting through Planning & Development. If licensing status holds up your permit, ask BizCare or call 311 (816-513-1313) to reach Development Services.

Transportation for-hire, security, pawn, entertainment and other regulated businesses

  • Many activities are regulated by the City’s Regulated Industries Division (RID). This includes liquor establishments, adult entertainment, billiard halls, security/patrol, and more. RID typically requires background checks and compliance inspections.
  • Confirm whether your activity is RID-regulated before you sign a lease.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Ask RID about the license class and timeline for your business type. If your location faces neighborhood concerns, plan for extra outreach and time.

Child care

  • Missouri licenses child care providers through the Department of Health & Senior Services (DHSS). See DHSS – Child Care Licensing. City occupancy, zoning, and fire safety also apply via CompassKC.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • DHSS regional offices can help you plan a compliant layout. If fit-out costs are high, consider starting with a smaller capacity that meets code now.

Short-term rentals (Airbnb, VRBO) and lodging

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your property is in a restricted zoning district, explore Type 1/Type 2 STR options or seek alternative locations where STRs are permitted.

Step 6: Don’t miss Kansas City and Missouri taxes

Get these right from day one.

  • Kansas City 1% Earnings Tax is required on wages earned in KCMO and on net profits of businesses operating in KCMO. Rate: 1%. File and pay via Quick Tax. See details at KCMO Finance – Earnings Tax.

Key city tax items:

  • Employers must withhold the 1% Earnings Tax from employee wages for work performed in KCMO and file via Quick Tax. Refunds may be claimed for days worked outside KCMO; see the official Earnings Tax Refund information for rules and forms.
  • Sole proprietors, partnerships, and corporations with income derived from KCMO file net profits returns via Quick Tax. See KCMO Earnings Tax page for current due dates.
  • Some industries must also file city-level taxes such as Convention & Tourism taxes (e.g., hotels, prepared food/beverages) in Quick Tax. See KCMO Finance – Taxes Overview.

State and county items:

  • Missouri sales/use tax: collect and remit as required to Missouri DOR. Base state rate is 4.225%; local rates vary. Use the rate lookup.
  • Employer taxes: Missouri Withholding (DOR) and Unemployment Insurance (UI) with the Division of Employment Security – UInteract.
  • Business personal property: File declarations with your county assessor (e.g., Jackson, Clay, Platte, Cass) by typical statutory deadlines (commonly by March 1; check your county). See county assessor websites such as Jackson County Assessment and your county’s official site if outside Jackson.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re unsure which city taxes apply, call 311 (816-513-1313) and ask for the Finance/Revenue Division or use the contact tools in Quick Tax.
  • For sales tax questions or rate disputes, use DOR’s official contact channels at DOR Contact.

Required documents: checklists you can copy

Have these on hand to save time.

Business license application (typical):

  • EIN confirmation letter or SSN (for sole proprietors without employees).
  • Missouri Tax ID (if you have sales tax or withholding accounts).
  • Entity documents (LLC Articles, corporate Articles) or DBA filing.
  • Physical address inside KCMO; mail address if different.
  • Owner/officer information.
  • Certificate of Occupancy/permit number (if applicable).
  • Health permit numbers (for food businesses), liquor license info (if applicable).
  • Proof you’re current on city taxes (Quick Tax will check).

Zoning/occupancy and buildout (if applicable):

  • Site plan/floor plan.
  • Scope of work and contractor/trade license info.
  • Fire safety details (e.g., hood suppression specs, extinguisher types).
  • Accessibility plan (ramps, restrooms) if required.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Scan everything into PDFs and upload through CompassKC or Quick Tax as requested. If you hit roadblocks, ask BizCare to review your packet.

Cost snapshot (with official links)

Exact fees depend on your business classification, square footage, inspections, and permits. Use this as a map; click into each agency for current amounts.

Item Who charges it Current known amount Source
LLC formation (online) Missouri SOS $50 SOS fee schedule
Fictitious Name (DBA) Missouri SOS $7 SOS fees
EIN IRS $0 IRS EIN
Missouri Sales/Use registration Missouri DOR Generally $0 to register; bond/security may be required case-by-case DOR – Business Tax
KCMO Business License City of KCMO Varies by classification; see Quick Tax KCMO Quick Tax
Health permits (food) KCMO Health Dept. Varies by risk/type; see fee schedules KCMO Food Safety
Liquor license (City + State) KCMO RID + MO ATC Varies by license type KCMO RID; MO ATC
Building/Trade permits KCMO Planning & Development Varies by scope CompassKC
Earnings Tax City of KCMO 1% (wages and net profits) KCMO Finance – Earnings Tax

Sources verified August 2025.

Typical timelines (realistic expectations)

These are common ranges. Complex projects take longer.

Process Typical timing Notes/Source
Missouri LLC (online) Same day to 2 business days SOS online filings
EIN Immediate (online) IRS EIN
Missouri DOR registration 1–10 business days MyTax Missouri
Zoning/occupancy review 1–2 weeks for simple use; longer if buildout CompassKC
Food plan review + inspections 2–8+ weeks KCMO Food Safety
KCMO Business License (simple) 1–3 business days once all prerequisites met Quick Tax
Liquor (City + State) 4–12+ weeks depending on type, hearings, background checks KCMO RID; MO ATC

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Use pre-application meetings via CompassKC to catch issues early.
  • Ask BizCare to coordinate if multiple departments are involved. If your opening date is slipping, set a realistic soft-open target and communicate with your landlord.

Real-world walkthroughs (how it plays out)

Coffee truck (mobile food unit):

  • Register LLC (50∗∗)andgetEIN(∗∗50**) and get EIN (**0) using the links above.
  • Secure commissary agreement and truck build specs; file plan review with KCMO Food Safety and coordinate KCFD Fire Prevention for suppression system inspections.
  • Apply for KCMO Business License via Quick Tax.
  • Register for Missouri sales tax (coffee and prepared drinks are taxable) at MyTax Missouri.
  • Plan 6–10 weeks for truck build, plan review, and inspections before first sale.

Solo consultant (home-based in KCMO):

  • File a DBA if using a trade name (7∗∗)andgetanEIN(∗∗7**) and get an EIN (**0) if preferred for banking.
  • Review home occupation rules (noise, customer visits) via Planning & Development.
  • Get the city Business License via Quick Tax and set up the 1% Earnings Tax filings. No sales tax if only non-taxable professional services.

Neighborhood salon:

  • Confirm the space can be used for a salon in CompassKC; get occupancy and any trade permits for plumbing/electrical upgrades.
  • Owner must hold state license and the salon must meet state board requirements: Cosmetology & Barber Examiners.
  • Apply for city Business License via Quick Tax. Build in 4–8+ weeks for fit-out and inspections before opening.

General contractor:

  • Register the business with SOS; ensure contractor registration/licensing with the city via Planning & Development and pull all permits in CompassKC.
  • Set up Earnings Tax via Quick Tax and withhold the 1% for employees working inside KCMO. Track job locations for correct withholding and potential refunds.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Signing a lease before checking zoning and occupancy. Use CompassKC first. A cheap lease in the wrong district can cost months.
  • Assuming “no storefront” means “no license.” Home-based businesses in KCMO still need the city Business License and must handle the 1% Earnings Tax. See KCMO Earnings Tax.
  • Skipping state licenses for personal services. The city license doesn’t replace your state cosmetology, barber, or massage licenses. See MO Division of Professional Registration.
  • Starting buildout without permits. Unpermitted work can force tear-outs and re-inspections. Apply in CompassKC and wait for permit issuance.
  • Waiting to file for liquor until late. City and State liquor approvals can take 4–12+ weeks. Start with KCMO RID and MO ATC early.
  • Mishandling remote work for Earnings Tax. If employees work part of the time outside KCMO, follow the official refund/withholding guidance in KCMO Earnings Tax FAQs.
  • Forgetting county business personal property declarations. Check your county assessor (e.g., Jackson County) by March 1.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Don’t guess. Contact 311 at 816-513-1313 for a referral to the right city unit, and use BizCare to walk through a checklist tailored to your business type.

Kansas City taxes you’ll likely encounter (cheat sheet)

Tax Who pays Rate/When Where to file Official link
Earnings Tax – Withholding Employers with employees working in KCMO Withhold 1% from wages; file per assigned schedule Quick Tax KCMO Finance – Earnings Tax
Earnings Tax – Net Profits Businesses with net profits from KCMO 1% of net profits; due per city schedule Quick Tax Same as above
Convention & Tourism Taxes Hotels, some food/beverage operators Rates vary by ordinance and district Quick Tax KCMO Finance – Taxes
Sales/Use Tax (state/local) Sellers of taxable goods/services State 4.225% plus local; due per DOR schedule MyTax Missouri DOR Sales/Use

Note: Always confirm filing frequencies and due dates in your Quick Tax and DOR accounts (they vary based on liabilities).

Home-based businesses in Kansas City, MO

You still need a city Business License if you operate from home inside KCMO.

  • Review home occupation rules in the zoning code (parking, signs, customer visits). Start at City Planning & Development and search for “home occupation.”
  • If your activity increases traffic or involves on-site retail, the city may limit it or require additional approvals.
  • Apply for the Business License through Quick Tax. Set up Earnings Tax filings for 1% of net profits (and withhold 1% from any employees working in KCMO).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Ask Planning & Development via 311 (816-513-1313) whether your activity qualifies as a home occupation and what limits apply.
  • If your home address doesn’t work, consider a small office suite or coworking space that is properly zoned.

Signs, patios, and public right-of-way use

These are easy to overlook and can trigger fines if installed without approval.

  • Sign permits: Almost all exterior signs need permits. Apply via CompassKC. See sign standards under Planning & Development.
  • Sidewalk cafes/outdoor dining: If you use the public right-of-way, you may need an encroachment agreement or permit (and sometimes additional insurance). Start with Public Works and apply in CompassKC.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If designs get bounced, request a plan review meeting through CompassKC or ask BizCare for a design standards check.

Inclusivity, diversity, and accessibility: certifications and local resources

These programs can open up contracting and support networks.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

Working on both sides of the state line (MO and KS)

Many KC businesses operate in both Missouri and Kansas. Licensing and taxes don’t “cross over.”

  • If you also do business in Kansas, register with the Kansas Secretary of State and obtain any local city licenses where you operate (for example, Kansas City, Kansas – Business Licensing for KCK). Missouri and Kansas have separate sales tax systems and rates.
  • Keep clean records by job location for the KCMO 1% Earnings Tax and for state sales tax reporting on both sides.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • For cross-border tax questions, use the Missouri DOR contact page and the Kansas DOR Contact Us. For planning, ask the UMKC SBDC to review your footprint.

Where to get help (official and proven)

Need Contact Link
City general help and routing KCMO 311 – 816-513-1313 KCMO 311
One-on-one city startup help Kansas City BizCare BizCare
City e-filing for license and taxes Quick Tax portal Quick Tax
Permits, zoning, occupancy CompassKC CompassKC
State entity filings Missouri SOS SOS Business Filings
State taxes Missouri DOR MyTax Missouri
Food safety permits KCMO Health Dept. Food Safety
Liquor licensing KCMO RID; MO ATC RID; ATC
Contractor/trade licensing City Planning & Development KCMO CPD
Small business counseling Missouri SBDC at UMKC UMKC SBDC
Resource network KCSourceLink (UMKC) KCSourceLink

All links verified August 2025.

FAQs: Kansas City, MO business licensing (10 quick answers)

  • Do I need a KCMO Business License if I’m home-based?
    Yes. If your home is inside KCMO, you generally need the city Business License and must handle the 1% Earnings Tax. See KCMO Earnings Tax and apply via Quick Tax.
  • What is the Earnings Tax rate in Kansas City?
    It’s 1% on wages earned in KCMO and 1% on net profits of businesses operating in KCMO. Source: KCMO Finance – Earnings Tax.
  • How much does the KCMO Business License cost?
    Fees vary by classification and sometimes by size, receipts, or other factors. Check the official schedules inside Quick Tax or the Finance/Revenue pages. Avoid third-party fee charts because they may be outdated.
  • How fast can I get the license?
    If your application is complete and your business doesn’t need inspections, it can be issued in as little as 1–3 business days. Inspections (health, fire, building) can extend timelines to 2–8+ weeks. Sources: Quick Tax, KCMO Health, CompassKC.
  • Do I need a state license for my profession?
    Some professions are state-licensed (e.g., cosmetology, barbering, massage, contractors/trades have city-level licensing). Check MO Division of Professional Registration and KCMO Planning & Development.
  • I live in Kansas but work in KCMO. Do I owe the Earnings Tax?
    Yes, if you work inside KCMO you are subject to the 1% Earnings Tax on wages earned in the city. Employers withhold it. Days worked outside KCMO may be eligible for refunds—see KCMO Earnings Tax refund info.
  • I sell online from a KCMO warehouse. Do I need state sales tax?
    Likely yes if you sell taxable goods shipped to Missouri addresses. Register at MyTax Missouri and use the rate lookup to set correct rates. See DOR – Sales/Use.
  • I’m a landlord. Do I need city registration?
    Rental housing in KCMO falls under the Health Department’s Healthy Homes Rental Program. Registration and inspections are required. See KCMO Healthy Homes Rental Program for current requirements and contacts. You may also need a Business License depending on activities.
  • What if my address is near the city limit?
    Use the official KCMO Property Search to confirm the parcel is inside KCMO. If still unclear, call 311 (816-513-1313).
  • Where can I get hands-on help filling out applications?
    Start with BizCare, UMKC SBDC, and the Quick Tax help tools. For permits and zoning, file in CompassKC and request assistance.

“If this doesn’t work” playbook (Plan B by scenario)

Problem Try this Official resource
Quick Tax account won’t verify Confirm your SOS and DOR records match your city application (legal name, ID numbers). Use the portal’s help and 311 for Finance routing Quick Tax; KCMO 311 – 816-513-1313
Unknown zoning or denied occupancy Request a zoning verification or pre-application review; ask BizCare to coordinate CompassKC; BizCare
Health permit delays Ask for a pre-opening meeting; confirm your plan review submittal is complete KCMO Food Safety
Liquor license stalled Check both City RID and State ATC requirements; ensure background checks and neighborhood approvals are complete KCMO RID; MO ATC
Contractor license or permits stuck Verify trade licensing and insurance; request a code consult KCMO CPD
Sales tax setup confusion Confirm business activity; use DOR phone directory or chat Missouri DOR contact

Extra notes on compliance (the stuff that saves headaches later)

  • Keep separate business banking from day one. Many city verifications request EIN and may ask for proof of operations later.
  • Track remote and outside-city work days for Earnings Tax purposes to handle withholding and refunds correctly. See KCMO Earnings Tax FAQs.
  • Renew every license on time. City license terms and renewal dates show in Quick Tax. Some industry permits (health, liquor) have separate renewal calendars.
  • If you change location or ownership share, update with the City (Quick Tax), State (SOS), and State tax (DOR). Mismatches cause filing errors.

Tables you can print and use with your team

Table: Core setup checklist (owner)

Task Where Done?
Choose entity and file with MO SOS SOS filings
Get EIN IRS EIN
Register for MO taxes MyTax Missouri
Check zoning/occupancy CompassKC
Apply for KCMO Business License Quick Tax
Industry permits (if any) See sections above
Set up payroll/withholding (if hiring) MyTax Missouri; Quick Tax
Add city/state filing due dates to calendar Quick Tax/DOR portals

Table: Food business quick map

Step City/State division Link
Plan review KCMO Health Dept. Food Safety
Fire safety KCFD – Fire Prevention KCMO Fire
Occupancy City Planning & Development CompassKC
City business license Finance/Quick Tax Quick Tax
Sales tax Missouri DOR MyTax Missouri
Liquor (if applicable) KCMO RID + MO ATC RID; ATC

Table: Personal services (salon/barber/massage) quick map

Requirement Agency Link
State operator/shop license MO Division of Professional Registration Cosmetology & Barber; Massage Therapy
Zoning/occupancy KCMO Planning & Development CompassKC
City Business License KCMO Finance Quick Tax

Table: Contractor quick map

Requirement Agency Link
City contractor registration/trade licensing KCMO Planning & Development KCMO CPD
Pull building/trade permits CompassKC CompassKC
City Business License + Earnings Tax KCMO Finance Quick Tax
State unemployment insurance (if hiring) MO Division of Employment Security UInteract

Table: Contacts and escalation

Topic First contact Backup
City licensing/taxes Quick Tax 311 – 816-513-1313
Zoning/occupancy CompassKC BizCare
Health permits Food Safety 311 – 816-513-1313
Liquor RID MO ATC
State taxes MyTax Missouri DOR contact
Free advising UMKC SBDC KCSourceLink

Reality checks, warnings, and tips

  • If a space seems “move-in ready,” still budget time for occupancy and fire inspections. Surprise issues (exits, bathrooms, ADA access) can delay openings.
  • For liquor, neighborhood input and crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED) can matter. Work with RID early to understand expectations.
  • If you’re importing goods or doing e-commerce, consider sales tax nexus beyond Missouri. Missouri’s DOR Sales/Use and your sales platform’s tax tools can help, but consult a CPA for multi-state compliance.
  • Health and liquor renewals run on their own calendars. Put all renewal dates on one shared calendar with alerts 30 days ahead.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If costs or timelines balloon, consider a phased opening (e.g., retail without food service first) or a different location with a compatible existing use. Ask BizCare to sanity-check your plan.

About this guide

Disclaimer

This guide is for general information only and is not legal, tax, or accounting advice. City and state rules, fees, forms, and deadlines change. Always verify current requirements with the relevant agency using the official links in this guide. If your situation is complex, consider speaking with a qualified attorney or CPA.