Business Tax Filing and Compliance

• Online Tax Portal

Roanoke City has introduced a new online tax portal to facilitate tax payments for residents and businesses, making it easier to pay bills online. The portal covers various taxes, including real estate, stormwater, solid waste, personal property, and miscellaneous invoices.

• Business License Tax

Businesses operating in Roanoke are subject to a business license tax assessed on each business. New businesses must obtain a business license before conducting any business activities. The licenses need to be renewed annually by March 1, with renewal notices sent at the beginning of the tax year. 

• Business Personal Property Tax

Businesses are required to file business personal property tax annually on furniture, fixtures, machinery, and tools used in their operations. The filing deadline for business personal property returns is typically February 15, with a 10% late filing penalty for returns filed after this date.

Compliance Assistance and Resources

• Business Owner’s Guide

The City of Roanoke provides a Business Owner’s Guide to assist businesses in understanding the economic development services, programs, and regulatory processes necessary for compliance with city and state codes and regulations. The guide offers an overview of the procedures required for a successful business launch, expansion, or relocation.

• Verification and Refunds

Businesses with physical locations in Roanoke require verification to ensure compliance with building safety and zoning codes. Additionally, businesses closing in Roanoke may be eligible for a refund by submitting a signed statement with the out-of-business date and gross receipts information. 

• Tax Rates and Assessments

The tax rate for the City of Roanoke is $3.45 for every hundred dollars of assessed value, established by the Roanoke City Council. Assessments for business personal property are based on a percentage of the original full cost for the year of acquisition of the asset. 

• Leased Equipment and Vehicles

Leased equipment is taxable based on the lease agreement, and vehicles are assessed for business personal property tax, prorated according to the months located in Roanoke. Businesses must notify the Commissioner of the Revenue’s office of any changes related to vehicles within 30 days.