Business Certificates
A Business Certificate is a local registration of a business that is located in the Town of Holbrook per MGL Ch. 110, §5. It is commonly known as a “d/b/a” (doing business as) form.
A Business Certificate is not a license to do business in the town. Its primary purpose is to disclose business ownership information. A business certificate creates a public record of the name and address of the owner(s) of a business. Many banks consider it a requirement for opening a business banking account. Additional licenses and/or permits may be required by other Town Departments or State Agencies in order to do business.
Starting a Business in Massachusetts
Business Certificate Forms
Business Certificate Application is required for any business when first applying for a business certificate. Multiple departments are required to sign off on the application before processing it at the Clerk's Office.
Business Certificate - Renewal/Notarized Form is used for all business certificates renewals and when all owners are unable to sign the certificate in the presences of the Town Clerk’s Office, in which case all owners must have their signatures notarized. Please enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope, check or money order payable to the Town of Holbrook along with the notarized business certificate. A registered copy of the Business Certificate will be returned to you.
The fee for a Business Certificate is $40.00. A business certificate is in force and effect for four (4) years from the date of issue. A new filing must be made every four years as long as the business is conducted.
Business Certificate - Amendment Form is used to process one of the following changes:
- Discontinue or retired a business
- Deceased or withdrawal of one of the owners
- Change of owner residence
- Change of business location
- MINOR change in name of business
The fee for each amendment is $10.00.