How to Get a Reseller License in New York

To sell goods in New York, resellers must obtain a Certificate of Authority from the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance. Registration is free and completed online through NY Business Express. You must register at least 20 days before starting business, and processing takes approximately 20 days.

You will need:

• NY.gov Business account
• Form DTF-17.1 (Business Contact Questionnaire)
• SSN or EIN
• Business address

Once registered, your Certificate remains valid as long as you file and pay taxes on time. To make tax-exempt purchases for resale, use Form ST-120 (Resale Certificate). Operating without a certificate incurs penalties up to $500 the first day and $200/day thereafter (max $10,000). New York's state rate is 4%, with local rates adding 4-4.875% for combined rates up to 8.875%.