New Hampshire Business Tax Registration walks Employers and Business Owners through the state steps required To legally hire staff and report business taxes.
This guide explains How To obtain a Federal EIN, register for unemployment insurance with NHES, and set up BPT and BET accounts with the DRA.
1. Overview of New Hampshire Business Tax Registration
New Hampshire requires businesses that meet certain thresholds To register for state business taxes and unemployment insurance.
Completing federal and state registrations helps Employers remain compliant and avoid penalties for late filings or missed accounts.
What Is a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN)?
An EIN is a nine digit number issued by the Internal Revenue Service for federal tax reporting.
Most businesses need an EIN before hiring employees, opening business bank accounts, or registering with state agencies.
How To Apply For an EIN
Apply for an EIN online at the IRS website at no charge and receive the number immediately in most cases.
Use the EIN when registering with the New Hampshire Department of Employment Security and the Department of Revenue Administration.
2. Registering With the New Hampshire Department of Employment Security (NHES)
If you hire employees you must register with NHES To obtain an Employer Account Number for unemployment insurance tax purposes.
Register within 30 days of hiring your first employee to avoid penalties and ensure proper tax reporting.
How To Register With NHES
Online registration is completed by filing the Employer Status Report (Form NHES 0037) on the NHES website.
Online registrations are typically processed within 7 to 10 days while mailed forms may take 3 to 5 weeks.
NHES Contact and Support
For help call NHES at (603) 228 4033 or (603) 228 4034 for Employer account questions.
Keep copies of submitted forms and confirmation numbers for your payroll and HR records.
3. Understanding New Hampshire Business Taxes: BPT and BET
New Hampshire imposes two main business taxes administered by the Department of Revenue Administration.
The Business Profits Tax applies to businesses with gross income above $109,000 and is assessed at a rate of 7.5 percent.
The Business Enterprise Tax applies to businesses with gross receipts over $281,000 or an enterprise value tax base over $281,000 and is assessed at 0.55 percent.
Filing Requirements and Common Forms
Use the appropriate DRA forms based on your business structure such as Form NH 1065 for partnerships and partnership equivalents.
Businesses subject To BET must file the Business Enterprise Tax Return as instructed by the DRA through Granite Tax Connect.
4. Registering With the Department of Revenue Administration (DRA)
Register with the DRA using the Granite Tax Connect portal To establish BPT and BET accounts and manage filings online.
Online registration streamlines filing, payments, and account maintenance for New Hampshire business taxes.
Processing Times and Account Management
Account activations vary but registering online usually accelerates processing and provides immediate access To filing options.
Maintain accurate gross receipts and payroll records to determine whether BPT or BET thresholds apply to your business.
5. Additional Considerations For Employers
New Hampshire has no state personal income tax for wages so Employers do not withhold state income tax from paychecks.
Employers must still manage federal withholding and payroll taxes and remit unemployment insurance contributions to NHES.
Local Licenses and Permits
Check with your city or town clerk for local business licenses, permits, or zoning requirements that may apply to your operation.
Certain regulated activities may require additional state or municipal licensing beyond tax registration.
6. Employer Responsibilities and Best Practices
Register for an EIN before attempting state registrations to prevent delays in account setup.
Register with NHES within 30 days of hiring your first employee and use Granite Tax Connect for DRA accounts.
Keep payroll systems and accounting software updated with Employer account numbers and filing frequencies.
Consult an Accountant or HR professional if you are unsure which taxes apply to your business structure or activities.
7. Quick Reference Table of Accounts and Agencies
| Account Type | Agency | How To Register |
|---|---|---|
| Federal EIN | Internal Revenue Service | Apply online at the IRS EIN application for immediate issuance |
| Unemployment Insurance Employer Account | New Hampshire Department of Employment Security | File Employer Status Report (Form NHES 0037) online or by mail; register within 30 days of first hire |
| Business Profits Tax (BPT) | New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration | Register via Granite Tax Connect if gross income exceeds threshold; file BPT returns as required |
| Business Enterprise Tax (BET) | New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration | Register via Granite Tax Connect if gross receipts or tax base exceed threshold; file BET returns as required |
| Business Formation Filings | New Hampshire Secretary of State Corporation Division | File registration or formation documents as needed for Corporations, LLCs, or Partnerships |
8. Additional Resources For Registration and Forms
- New Hampshire Department of Employment Security (NHES)
- New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration (DRA)
- IRS EIN Application
- Granite Tax Connect Portal
- New Hampshire Secretary of State - Corporation Division
New Hampshire Business Tax Registration: Conclusion
Completing federal and state registrations ensures your business operates legally and meets New Hampshire tax obligations.
Obtain an EIN, register with NHES for unemployment insurance within 30 days of hiring, use Granite Tax Connect for BPT and BET accounts, and confirm any local licensing requirements.







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