What licenses do I need to operate in Montana?

Montana has no statewide general business license; local business licenses required in many cities; professional licenses from the Department of Labor and Industry. Requirements vary by business type, industry, and location. Contact Montana Department of Labor and Industry, Business Standards Division; various professional boards for specific requirements.

What happens if I miss an annual report filing?

Missing your annual report deadline can result in penalties, loss of good standing, and eventually administrative dissolution of your entity. Most states offer a grace period before dissolution.

Do I need workers' compensation insurance?

In Montana, workers' compensation insurance is required for businesses with 1 or more employees[src:https://www.dol.gov/agencies/owcp/wc|DOL Workers' Comp]. Operating without required coverage is a criminal offense in most states.

What is the minimum wage in Montana?

The minimum wage in Montana is $10.30/hr[src:https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/minimum-wage/state|DOL Wage Data]. Tipped employees may have a lower minimum wage. Federal FLSA overtime rules require 1.5x pay after 40 hours per week[src:https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/flsa|DOL FLSA].

Topic guideUpdated 2026-02-27

Montana Business Compliance — Licensing, Taxes & Regulations

Business licensing, tax obligations, annual filing requirements, and employment compliance for Montana businesses.

Every business in Montana must comply with federal, state, and local regulations. Failure to maintain proper licenses and permits can result in fines, penalties, or forced closure.

Business Licensing

Montana has no statewide general business license; local business licenses required in many cities; professional licenses from the Department of Labor and Industry.

Licensing is managed by Montana Department of Labor and Industry, Business Standards Division; various professional boards.

Tax Obligations

No sales tax; corporate income tax (6.75%), individual income tax (1–6.75% graduated), pass-through for LLCs, no franchise tax.

Collect and remit sales tax if applicable

File and pay estimated income/franchise taxes quarterly

Withhold and remit employee payroll taxes

File annual tax returns by the deadline

Annual Filing Requirements

Montana LLCs and corporations must file annual reports with the Secretary of State. Filing fees for LLC documents are set by the Secretary of State rather than fixed in the statute; check the current Secretary of State fee schedule for the annual report fee and deadline, and confirm requirements with a lawyer..

Employment Compliance

If you have employees in Montana:

Obtain workers' compensation insurance (required for 1 or more employees)^{[DOL Workers' Comp]}

Comply with wage and hour laws (state minimum wage: $10.30/hr)^{[DOL Wage Data]}

Post required workplace notices

Maintain I-9 forms for all employees

File quarterly payroll tax returns

✓Create a compliance calendar marking all filing deadlines for your business entity type. Missing a filing deadline can result in penalties, loss of good standing, or even administrative dissolution.

Prepare for Your Consultation

Quick checklist (Small Business)

Gather these before your first consultation.

Business formation docs

(articles of org., EIN, operating agreement)

Contracts and agreements

(client contracts, vendor agreements, leases)

Licenses and permits

(business license, permits, tax registrations)

General preparation tips only. Specific needs depend on your state and business type.

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