Business Tax Frequently Asked Questions

 

Do I need a Business Tax Receipt?

Yes, you need a Business Tax Receipt (BTR) to operate in Fort Lauderdale, and you actually need two separate receipts. Per City of Fort Lauderdale Code of Ordinances Section 15-28, any individual or entity engaging in or managing a business, profession, or occupation within the city limits must pay an annual business tax. 


Am I required to obtain a Broward County Business Tax Receipt?

Yes. Most businesses are required to obtain both a City of Fort Lauderdale Business Tax Receipt and a Broward County Business Tax Receipt before conducting business. In most cases, the City Business Tax Receipt must be obtained first.



How long does the approval process take?

Standard processing ranges between 30 business days currently, once all correct documentation is submitted. It depends highly on internal multi-departmental reviews and the number of applications in processing at any given time.  


Can I begin operating my business before my Business Tax Receipt is approved?

Generally, no. A business cannot operate before the final application is fully approved, paid, and physically posted. Business owners may complete setup activities before opening, but may not conduct business until the receipt is approved.



How do I make a payment on my Business Tax Receipt account?

1. Visit LauderBuild
2. Scroll down and enter Record Number (BT/BL)
3. Search
4. Select Payments - Fees
5.Select: Pay Fees 
6.Verify amount and select Continue Application/Check Out
7. Select Payment Option (credit card or bank account)
8. Submit payment 
 This takes you to a 3rd party which charges 2.75% service charge fee
9. Enter payment information
10. Next

Accepted payment types are Visa, MasterCard, American Express or e-Check. Please note that a service fee of 2.75% of the total payment amount will be applied to all credit and debit card payments. The service fee does not apply to payments made by the following alternative payment methods: recurring ACH or one-time EFT transactions OR check payments made online via e-Check, 


I submitted my business tax application. What's the status?

If you have already submitted your Business Tax application, you can check its status online by following these steps:

  1. Go to https://aca-prod.accela.com/FTL/Default.aspx.
  2. Enter your application number in the search bar and click Search.
  3. Select your application from the search results.
  4. Click Record Info, then select Processing Status to view the current status of your application.
  5. Review the information displayed. If additional documentation or action is required, follow the instructions provided.

Please complete the Business Tax Assistance form for application status or further assistance.

Do I need to apply for a business tax receipt If I have a home-based business?

Yes. The City issues restricted business tax receipts to work out of the home. You'll be required to include a copy of your Florida driver's license or state-issued identification and submit the Home-Based Business Affidavit(PDF, 341KB) and Home(PDF, 140KB)-Based Business Checklist(PDF, 140KB) with your application.

Is there a service charge when making a payment with a credit card or bank account?

Yes, when you pay your Business Tax Receipt fees using a credit card or bank account, a service charge of 2.75% will be applied to your transaction. This fee is assessed by the third-party payment processor to cover processing costs. Please verify the total amount, including the service charge, before submitting your payment


When is my Business Tax Receipt due for renewal?

Renewal season starts July 1, annually. Your Local Business Tax Receipt (BTR) payment is due by September 30. A courtesy renewal notice is sent out annually on July 1 to your email on record. The active renewal window spans three months from July 1 through September 30. If your payment is not processed by the deadline, your BTR automatically becomes delinquent on October 1.  The notices are considered courtesies. Failure to receive a notice does not excuse nonpayment or pause late penalties. 


How long will my receipt remain valid?

Local BTRs operate on a fiscal year. They are valid until September 30th and must be renewed annually by October 1st to avoid delinquency. Renewal season starts July 1, annually.


How do I make a change to my Business Tax account? (Change of address, Business name, ownership, close the business or update contact information)

1) Go to LauderBuild

2) Login/Sign in

3) Apply

4) Business Tax

5) Agree to terms and conditions

6) Continue Application

7) Scroll down to Business Tax

8) Use drop down, select Business Tax Change of Information

9) Continue Application

10) Select relative account and request change

Keep in mind these changes may trigger new reviews and there is an associated cost.


Do vacation rentals require a Business Tax Receipt?

Yes. You must first apply via Vacation Rentals, before proceeding to a Business Tax application.



Who can I contact if there is an escalated issue with my Business Tax Receipt?

Please contact the Program Manager, Gail Jagessar at 954-828-6814 or GJagessar@fortlauderdale.gov.

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