Business License Frequently Asked Questions

Business License Frequently Asked Questions

How is my tax calculated?

Business occupation taxes are calculated using a combination of total gross receipts, applicable profitability ratios, the number of employees, and a flat-rate tax component.

View the Schedule of Rates for detailed pricing information.

Is my company required to have an E-Verify number?

Businesses with 11 or more employees who:

• Receive a W-2
• Work 35 or more hours per week
• Have payroll taxes withheld

are required to obtain an E-Verify number.

Register through E-Verify.

Business licenses will not be issued until the City receives a valid E-Verify number. E-Verify numbers are 4–6 digits and contain numbers only.

Do I need to submit my identification document again?

Identification must be resubmitted if the document has expired within the past year.

What if my business moved outside Sandy Springs?

Sign and date the Discontinued section on the first page of your renewal form and return it to the City.

Can I pay the $400 professional practitioner fee?

Only practitioners identified in O.C.G.A. 48-13-9(c) qualify for the flat fee.

Eligible professions include:

• Attorneys
• Physicians
• Dentists
• Chiropractors
• Veterinarians
• Architects
• Engineers
• Public Accountants
• Psychologists
• Professional Counselors
• Marriage and Family Therapists
• Social Workers
• And other professions listed in O.C.G.A. 48-13-9(c)

Do I need to provide a list of professional practitioners at my location?

Yes. Include a list of all qualifying practitioners working at your location and submit the applicable fee of $400 per practitioner.

Who is considered an employee?

Generally, all W-2 workers are considered employees. Business owners are not considered employees for occupation tax purposes.

What payment methods are available?

Business license fees may be paid online through the online payment portal.

• Credit and debit card payments: 5% processing fee
• eCheck payments: $5.00 processing fee

The City also accepts checks and money orders by mail or in person.

Do I need to submit the affidavit forms each year?

Yes. All businesses operating in Sandy Springs must submit the required Business License Affidavit Forms (PDF) with their annual renewal application and payment.

Need additional assistance?

Phone: 770-206-2075
Email: revenue@sandyspringsga.gov
Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 7:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Location: Revenue Department, Sandy Springs City Hall