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1. Who must file?

Any person conducting a business under any title (business name) other than the full name of the person conducting the business must file a certificate. A person is defined as an individual, a partnership, or a corporation.

2. Where do I get the application, and how do I file?

You can download a Business Certificate Application (PDF), or you can obtain and file your application at the Town Clerk’s Office, located at:
29 Middle Road
Boxborough, MA 01719

During normal business hours:
Monday through Thursday
8 am to 4 pm

Forms can be signed in person at the Town Clerk’s office, or you can have your application notarized and mailed to the Town Clerk at the previously listed address, along with a check for $20 made out to the Town of Boxborough.

3. Who must sign on behalf of the business?

If the business is owned solely by one person, only that person needs to sign. If it is a partnership of two or more people (but not a formal legal entity), both or all of the "partners" must sign. If it is a legal partnership, any officer who has authority to sign on behalf of the partnership may do so. If it is a corporation, an officer who has signatory authority must sign - which is usually the President, but not always.

All signatures must be made in front of a notary, the Town Clerk, or the Assistant Town Clerk. Do not sign the certificate unless it is in front of one of these three individuals. An individual must be 18 years of age or older to legally sign a business certificate.

4. How long is a business certificate valid?

Business Certificates are valid for a period of four years from the date of its original filing. They must be renewed every four years for as long as the business is being conducted.

5. Does filing a business certificate protect me from others using the same name?

No. The protection of a trademark in Massachusetts is accomplished through the Secretary of State’s Office.

6. What is the fee for filing/renewing a business certificate?

The fee for filing/renewing a business certificate is $20.

7. Must I display the certificate?

The law states that copies of your certificate must be available at the address at which the business is conducted, and shall be produced for inspection upon request during regular business hours to any person who has purchased goods or services from such business.

8. What is the penalty for failure to file a business certificate?

The law states that violations will be punished by a fine of not more than $300 for each month during which the violation continues.

9. Where do I get tax information regarding my business?

The Massachusetts Department of Revenue (DOR) can answer all of your questions regarding collecting sales tax or other tax questions you may have. The Taxpayer Assistance Bureau is open from 8:45 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday. The toll free number is 800-392-6089 or 617-887-6367.

You obtain an Federal Employer Identification Number (FID) number from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) at 800-829-1040 or 617-523-1040.