Online Tax Transactions
Information for New Businesses
Starting a new business in Fairfax County? Welcome! There are many things to consider including trade name registration, incorporation, licenses, permits, and taxes.
BPOL Licenses
Most businesses operating in Fairfax County must possess a Business, Professional and Occupational License (BPOL). The associated tax is based on gross receipts (or gross purchases for wholesale merchants).
Other County Licenses
In addition to the BPOL license, auto graveyards, bondsmen, fortune tellers, carnivals/circuses, as well as businesses who permit public dancing and/or serve mixed beverages require additional licenses.
Business Tangible Property and Vehicles
Businesses in Fairfax County are required to pay taxes on tangible properties. Tangible properties include office furniture, computer equipment, machinery, and tools. Businesses also pay tax on their vehicles.
Changes in 2022 for Machinery and Tools
The tax rate for Machinery and Tools (M&T) was changed from $4.57 per $100 in assessed value to $2, as of January 1, 2022. In addition, M&T equipment is assessed at 50% of its original cost for the first year of ownership.
Other Business Taxes
In addition to business licenses and tangible property tax, some businesses are subject to additional taxation. If you are a short-term rental business, hotel, motel, bank, or rent your home, apartment, or a room on short-term basis, these additional taxes may apply to you:
Appealing Business Tax Assessments
Any person or business assessed a Business, Professional and Occupational License (BPOL), machinery and tools or business tangible property tax may seek a review of their assessment. View procedures for local business tax appeals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions relating to business taxes in Fairfax County.
Planning and Land Use System (PLUS)
Planning and Land Use System (PLUS) will be the central platform to create and submit applications online, pay fees, track application status and receive electronic notifications. Customers will complete their zoning, building, permitting or other land development and environmental health processes online through the PLUS portal.