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Business Tax Returns for taxpayers in Classification 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D and 5 are due February 28, 2012 and were mailed January 4, 2012 from the Tennessee Department of Revenue. Beginning this year, Revenue will NOT mail tax returns to taxpayers who are required to file electronically or who already voluntarily file their returns electronically. Taxpayers who are required to file electronically but choose instead to file a paper tax return will be subject to a $500 penalty per location for each return that was filed incorrectly Additionally, those that pay by check when they should have paid electronically will be charged a 5% penalty.
300 Main Ave, Knoxville, TN 37902
Monday- Friday
8:00am - 4:30pm
In order to process a Driver License, Marriage License or Passport we ask that you arrive at least 30 minutes prior to office closing times. The closing time listed does not always reflect applicants will be accepted up to that time. It may be necessary to cease taking applicants earlier in order to complete processing by the end of the day.
Business Tax License Information
The following information is intended to inform you of Business Taxes in general, and is not designed to completely address all laws and regulations. After reading the information outlined below, direct your questions accordingly:
- For questions regarding tax law, filing or paying business taxes, call 1-800-342-1003.
- For questions regarding Knox County Business Tax Licenses, please call 865-215-2392.
Business Tax License Application Process
Most businesses within Knox County must obtain a business license. Those businesses located within the municipal boundaries of the City of Knoxville must also register with the City of Knoxville Department of Finance.
When applying for a business tax license, you must provide the following information:
- Business name, address, and
telephone number - Owner’s name(s), home address, home telephone number, social security number
- Dominant business activity of items sold or services rendered, start date
- Signature of owner(s)
From their start date, new businesses have a 20 day grace period to obtain a license. To apply, you may either complete the online application at the link above, or download an Application for Business Tax License. Mail the completed application along with the fee of $15.00 payable to “Knox County Clerk” to:
Knox County Clerk’s Office
Business Tax Division
P.O. Box 1566
Knoxville, TN 37901
Annual Business Taxes
Tennessee businesses pay business tax each year to the Tennessee Department of Revenue based on their gross receipts during a certain time period.
Additional information is available at the Tennessee Department of Revenue’s website, or by calling 1-800-342-1003. The call center is available Monday through Friday 8:00 to 5:00 CST.
New Business Tax Workshops
The Tennessee Department of Revenue sponsors free tax workshops for new businesses. The sessions normally include business tax, sales and use tax, and state unemployment tax. To register for the free course, download the Registration Form, and fax or mail the completed form to the contact information listed.
Frequently Asked Questions
I am closing my business. What do I need to do?
If you decide to close your business, you must file a final business tax return with the Department of Revenue and pay any tax that is due within 15 days of the closing date. Please also notify our office by completing the Business Tax Account Change Form and remit to Knox Co Clerk Business Tax Division, P.O. Box 1566 Knoxville, TN 37901. Additionally, you must advise the Property Assessor’s Office regarding the closure and remit any taxes due to the Trustee’s office.
I am moving my business. What do I need to do?
If you are moving your business location within Knox County, please complete the Business Tax Account Change Form and remit to Knox Co Clerk Business Tax Division, P.O. Box 1566 Knoxville, TN 37901 within 5 business days prior to the last day of business at the old location. The fee to transfer a license from one location to another is $5.00. T.C.A. 8-21-701.(3)
My business tax license has expired. How do I renew it?
Contact the Tennessee Department of Revenue to file and pay your business taxes. This office will automatically mail your updated business license upon notification from the Department of Revenue that the annual business tax has been paid.
Still have questions?
You may email your inquiry here: Email the County Clerk.
Responses are provided Monday - Friday 8:00am to 4:30pm.
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