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Step-by-Step Guide to Registering Your Business with DTI
If you’re planning to start a sole proprietorship in the Philippines, the first step is to register your Business Name with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). This ensures that your business is legally recognized and that no one else can use the same name in your area.
Follow this quick guide to register your business:
Step 1: Prepare Your Business Details
Before applying, make sure you already have:
- Proposed Business Name (prepare at least 3 options in case your first choice is taken)
- Type of business (e.g., food stall, retail shop, online store)
- Address of your business
- Valid government-issued ID
Step 2: Choose Your Business Scope
When registering, you’ll need to decide where your business name will be valid:
- Barangay – Only within your barangay.
- City/Municipality – Valid only in Dasmariñas City.
- Regional – Valid across the whole Cavite Region (Region IV-A).
- National – Valid across the entire Philippines.
Tip: If you plan to grow beyond Dasmariñas, choose Regional or National.
Step 3: Apply Online or Onsite
You can register in two ways:
- Online Registration – Visit the official DTI Business Name Registration System (BNRS).
- In-Person – Go to the nearest DTI office or Negosyo Center Dasmariñas.
Step 4: Pay the Registration Fee
The cost depends on the territorial scope you choose:
- Barangay – ₱200
- City/Municipality – ₱500
- Regional – ₱1,000
- National – ₱2,000
₱30 Documentary Stamp Tax
Payments can be made online (GCash, PayMaya, credit/debit card) or at accredited banks.
Step 5: Receive Your Certificate
Once payment is confirmed, you’ll receive your DTI Certificate of Business Name Registration:
- If online, you can download and print your certificate immediately.
- If onsite, you’ll get a printed copy directly from the DTI office.
You’re Done!
- Barangay Clearance
- Mayor’s Permit (Business Permit)
- BIR Registration
How to Apply for a Mayor’s Permit in Dasmariñas City
Once you’ve secured your DTI Business Name Registration, the next step is to get your Mayor’s Permit (also known as a Business Permit). This certifies that your business is legally allowed to operate within Dasmariñas City.
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Prepare the Requirements
Make sure you have the following documents ready:
- DTI Certificate of Business Name registration (if sole proprietorship), or SEC/CDA registration (for corporations, partnerships, cooperatives)
- Barangay Business Clearance
- Community Tax Certificate (also called “sedula”)
- Contract of Lease (if rented) or Land Title / Tax Declaration (if owned)
- Sketch / location map of business premises (if required)
- Fire Safety Inspection Certificate (FSIC) from Bureau of Fire Protection (if applicable)
- Zoning or locational clearance (to ensure your business is allowed in that area)
- Sanitary permit or health clearances (especially for food, lodging, health-related businesses)
Step 2: Use eBOSS (Online Application Option)
Dasmariñas has an Electronic Business One Stop Shop (eBOSS) which lets you apply/renew online:
- You can fill out the unified application form online.
- Upload all required documents digitally.
- You receive notifications (via email/SMS) about the status, missing documents, etc.
- Payment can also be made online through systems like Starpay.
Using eBOSS streamlines a lot of steps and helps avoid long queues.
Step 3: Submit the Application (If Onsite or Hybrid)
If you’re not using the online route or need to submit requirements physically:
- Visit the BPLO (Business Permits & Licensing Office) located in Dasmariñas City Hall.
- Submit your filled application form + supporting documents.
- If there are inspections/clearances needed (e.g. fire safety, sanitary, zoning), staff will let you know.
Step 4: Pay the Required Fees & Charges
The cost depends on the territorial scope you choose:
- Once your documents are approved or assessed, you’ll receive a bill/order of payment.
- Payment channels include online payments (via Starpay or other authorized payment methods) or at the city treasurer/cashier’s office.
- Fees will depend on:
• The type of business (retail, manufacturing, services, food etc.)
• Business size or area/location
• Regulatory fees, inspection fees, taxes, etc.
Step 5: Claim Your Mayor’s Permit
Once payment is confirmed, you’ll receive your DTI Certificate of Business Name Registration:
- After payment and completion of all inspections/clearances, you can get your permit.
- If online, you might receive an electronic version (PDF or digital permit). If physical, pick up at BPLO.
- Keep the permit displayed as required by local ordinance.
Important Details & Reminders
- Renewal Period: In Dasmariñas, business permits are usually renewed annually. There is a renewal window (often early in the year). Check the specific deadline to avoid penalties.
- Penalties: Renewing late usually incurs penalties or surcharges.
- Exemptions / Special Cases: Some businesses might have fewer requirements (home-based, very small businesses), but you should verify with BPLO.
- Stay Updated: Rules, fees, and required documents may change—check on the official Dasmariñas City Government or BPLO website for the latest.
SEC Registration Guide for Corporations & Partnerships
If you’re planning to set up a corporation or partnership in the Philippines, you need to register with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). This process gives your business legal personality, protects your company name, and allows you to operate under Philippine law.
This guide will walk you through the steps and requirements.
Why Register with SEC?
- To give your business legal recognition as a separate entity.
- To protect your company name and brand.
- To allow you to open a corporate bank account, enter contracts, and issue official documents.
- To comply with Philippine laws, specifically the Revised Corporation Code.
Who Needs SEC Registration?
- Corporations – Stock corporations (with shareholders), non-stock corporations (foundations, associations), or One Person Corporations (OPC).
- Partnerships – General or limited partnerships.
- Non-Profit Organizations – NGOs, foundations, religious groups, etc.
Step 1: Choose a Business Name
- Propose at least 3–5 options.
- Verify availability through the SEC’s Company Registration System (CRS) or eSPARC (Electronic Simplified Processing of Application for Registration of Companies).
Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents
Depending on your entity type, you’ll need the following:
For Corporations:
- Articles of Incorporation
- By-Laws (except for One Person Corporations)
- Treasurer’s Affidavit
- Cover Sheet / Application Form
- Valid IDs of incorporators and directors
- Bank certificate (if required for paid-in capital)
For Partnerships:
- Articles of Partnership
- Cover Sheet / Application Form
- Valid IDs of partners
- Treasurer’s Affidavit (if applicable)
Step 3: File Online via SEC eSPARC
- Go to esparc.sec.gov.ph
- Reserve your business name and encode company details.
- Upload the required documents.
Step 4: Notarize the Documents
Step 5: Pay the Fees
Fees vary depending on your company’s authorized capital stock (for corporations) or contributions (for partnerships). Expect to pay for:
- Filing fee (usually based on authorized capital)
- Legal research fee
- Name reservation fee
- Documentary stamp tax
Step 6: Submit Final Documents
Submit the notarized hard copies of your documents (if required) to your chosen SEC office.
Step 7: Receive Your Certificate of Registration
Once approved, SEC will issue your Certificate of Incorporation (for corporations) or Certificate of Partnership (for partnerships). This is your proof of being a legally registered entity.
Next Steps After SEC Registration
After getting your SEC Certificate, proceed with:
- BIR Registration – for TIN, books of accounts, and official receipts.
- Mayor’s Permit – from your local government (Dasmariñas BPLO).
- Barangay Clearance – from your barangay office.
- Social Agencies – Register with SSS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG if you will hire employees.
Quick Tips
- Always prepare multiple name options in case your first choice is unavailable.
- Make sure the company purpose in your Articles of Incorporation is clear and specific.
- Keep digital and printed copies of all your documents.
- Use SEC’s online system (eSPARC) to save time and avoid long lines.
Tax Basics for Small Business Owners (BIR Requirements)
Once you’ve registered your business with DTI (for sole proprietors) or SEC (for corporations and partnerships), and secured your Mayor’s Permit, the next step is registering with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR). This ensures your business is tax compliant and can issue official receipts/invoices.
Here’s a simple guide for small business owners in the Philippines:
Why Register with the BIR?
- To get your official Tax Identification Number (TIN) for the business.
- To legally issue Official Receipts (OR) and Invoices.
- To declare your income and pay the correct taxes.
- To avoid penalties, surcharges, or business closure due to non-compliance.
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
For Sole Proprietors (DTI-registered):
- DTI Certificate of Business Name Registration
- Mayor’s Permit (or application)
- Barangay Clearance
- Valid government-issued ID
- Lease contract or proof of business address
For Corporations/Partnerships (SEC-registered):
- SEC Certificate of Incorporation / Partnership
- Articles of Incorporation / Partnership
- Mayor’s Permit (or application)
- Valid IDs of incorporators/partners
- Lease contract or proof of business address
Step 2: Go to Your RDO (Revenue District Office)
Visit the RDO that has jurisdiction over your business address. This is where your business records will be kept.
Step 3: Fill Out and Submit BIR Forms
- BIR Form 1901 – For sole proprietorships, professionals, and self-employed individuals.
- BIR Form 1903 – For corporations, partnerships, and cooperatives.
Submit your completed form along with your documents to your RDO.
Step 4: Pay Registration Fee
- ₱500 Annual Registration Fee (BIR Form 0605) – payable every January.
- ₱30 Documentary Stamp Tax (DST) – for the registration of books of accounts.
Payment can be made at Authorized Agent Banks (AABs) or online via BIR payment partners (GCash, PayMaya, etc.).
Step 5: Register Your Books of Accounts
You can choose between:
- Manual Books – bound journals and ledgers.
- Loose-leaf – computer-printed, requires approval.
- Electronic Books – for larger businesses using accounting systems.
Step 6: Apply for Authority to Print (ATP) Receipts/Invoices
File for BIR Form 1906 to get approval for your Official Receipts (OR) and Invoices. You must have them printed by a BIR-accredited printer.
Step 7: Claim Your BIR Certificate of Registration (COR)
Once approved, you will receive BIR Form 2303 – Certificate of Registration. This document outlines your tax obligations.
Ongoing BIR Compliance
As a small business owner, here are your usual tax responsibilities:
- Percentage Tax (BIR Form 2551Q) – for businesses with gross sales not exceeding ₱3M annually (non-VAT).
- Value Added Tax (VAT) (BIR Form 2550M/Q) – if annual gross sales exceed ₱3M or if you voluntarily register.
- Income Tax Return (ITR) –
- Sole proprietors: BIR Form 1701 (Annual ITR) and 1701Q (Quarterly ITR).
- Corporations/Partnerships: BIR Form 1702-RT (Annual ITR) and 1702Q (Quarterly ITR).
- Withholding Taxes (if applicable) – if you hire employees or pay suppliers subject to withholding.
Quick Tips for Small Business Owners
- Register within 30 days of securing your Mayor’s Permit to avoid penalties.
- Always issue BIR-registered receipts/invoices for every sale or service.
- File and pay your taxes on time late filing comes with hefty penalties.
- Keep proper accounting records; even small businesses are required to.
- Consult with an accredited tax practitioner or accountant if you’re unsure.
How to Renew Your Business Permit Every Year
Every business in the Philippines is required to renew its business permit annually with the local government. For entrepreneurs in Dasmariñas City, renewal is usually done at the Business Permits and Licensing Office (BPLO) every January 1–20. Failure to renew on time may result in penalties or even closure of your business.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you stay compliant.
Why Renew Your Business Permit?
- It keeps your business legally operational.
- It allows you to continue paying taxes and filing with the BIR.
- It avoids penalties, surcharges, or closure orders from the LGU.
- It builds credibility with customers, partners, and suppliers.
Why Renew Your Business Permit?
Prepare the following documents:
- Last year’s Business Permit
- Barangay Clearance for renewal
- Financial Statement or Gross Sales (for the previous year)
- Community Tax Certificate (CTC/Cedula)
- Contract of Lease or Tax Declaration (if applicable)
- SSS / PhilHealth / Pag-IBIG clearance (if hiring employees, may be required)
- Other supporting documents requested by BPLO
Step 1: Secure Barangay Clearance
- Go to your business’s barangay office.
- Submit last year’s business permit and pay the clearance fee.
Step 2: Proceed to the BPLO (Business Permits & Licensing Office)
- Submit your barangay clearance, last year’s permit, and other requirements.
- Fill out the renewal application form.
Step 3: Assessment of Fees
- The BPLO will compute your local business taxes, regulatory fees, and charges based on your declared gross sales.
Step 4: Payment of Fees
- Pay at the City Treasurer’s Office or designated cashier.
- Keep the Official Receipt (OR) as proof of payment.
Payment can be made at Authorized Agent Banks (AABs) or online via BIR payment partners (GCash, PayMaya, etc.).
Step 5: Claim Your New Business Permit & Plate/Sticker
- Once all payments are settled, claim your renewed Business Permit, Mayor’s Permit, and the corresponding sticker or plate to display in your business premises.
Deadlines & Penalties
As a small business owner, here are your usual tax responsibilities:
- Renewal Period: January 1–20 every year.
- Penalty for Late Renewal: Usually 25% surcharge on fees plus 2% interest per month of delay.
- Businesses operating without renewal may face closure orders from the city government.
Tips for Hassle-Free Renewal
- Renew early in January to avoid long lines.
- Keep your financial records updated for accurate tax computation.
- Double-check requirements with the BPLO in case of changes.
- If you have employees, ensure compliance with SSS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG contributions to avoid delays.
Free Download: Business Plan Template for Startups
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