FAQs • Northampton, MA • CivicEngage

Who must file a business certificate?: Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 110, Section 5 states that any person conducting a business under any title or business name other than the real name of the person conducting the business must file the certificate. A 'person' is defined as an individual, partnership, or corporation. Exemptions to filings are allowed under Section 6 if the corporation is doing business in its true corporate name, or if a legal partnership doing business under any title which includes the surname of any partner. Certain other exemptions exist for trusts and limited partnerships.

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Business Certificates

1. What is a business certificate?: A business certificate is a registration of a business that is conducted in the City of Northampton. It is commonly referred to as a "D/B/A form" or a "Doing Business As form". Its purpose is primarily for consumer protection and public information.

2. Who must file a business certificate?: Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 110, Section 5 states that any person conducting a business under any title or business name other than the real name of the person conducting the business must file the certificate. A 'person' is defined as an individual, partnership, or corporation. Exemptions to filings are allowed under Section 6 if the corporation is doing business in its true corporate name, or if a legal partnership doing business under any title which includes the surname of any partner. Certain other exemptions exist for trusts and limited partnerships.

3. Who must sign the business certificate?: If the business is owned solely by one person, only that person needs to sign. If is 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. All signatures must be made in front of a notary.

4. How do I file a business certificate?: To file a Business Certificate Filing Form, you may visit the City Clerk's Office during office hours. You may also download the form from this site and file via U.S. mail. Fill out the form and remember to have the signature(s) notarized and send it to:
Northampton City Clerk
City Hall Room 4
210 Main St.
Northampton, MA 01060-3148

5. How long is a certificate valid?: The certificate is valid for four years from the date of filing. It is renewable thereafter.

6. What is the filing fee?: There is a $50 filing fee, payable to the City of Northampton. Certified copies of the completed filing are available for $10 each. All payments must be made by bank check or money order. No personal checks accepted.