Where to Register Your Business & BIR RDO Guide (2026)
A practical overview of the complete business registration flow in the Philippines for 2026 — from DTI/SEC and Barangay to Mayor's Permit and BIR, with indicative fees and where to file.
What you’ll learn in this BIR RDO and registration flow guide
This guide explains where to register your business and which BIR RDO to go to, walking you through the full registration flow in the Philippines from DTI/SEC and Barangay to Mayor’s Permit and BIR.
For more detail on each step, check our DTI Business Name Registration Guide, SEC Registration Guide, Barangay Business Permit Guide, BIR Business Registration Guide, and Business Registration & Bank Account Guide.
After registration, you can also use our free BIR Book of Accounts Tool to generate and manage BIR-compliant books of accounts for your business.
Business registration in the Philippines usually follows a fixed path: DTI/SEC → Barangay → Mayor's/Business Permit → BIR. This guide walks you through each step, what office to go to, and the typical fees as of 2026.
Fees can vary by location (LGU) and business type. Some registrations are renewed annually, while BIR registration is generally a one-time process followed by ongoing tax compliance.
Register Your Business Name
For Sole Proprietors & Freelancers (DTI)
Register your business name with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
DTI Business Name Registration Fees by Territorial Scope:
- Barangay: ₱200
- City/Municipality: ₱500
- Regional: ₱1,000
- National: ₱2,000
A Documentary Stamp Tax (DST) of ₱30 is also required.
For Partnerships & Corporations (SEC)
Register with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for partnerships and corporations.
SEC registration fees for corporations typically include around ₱2,000+ in filing fees plus other charges (e.g., stock and transfer book, bylaws, legal research fee).
Look up your exact fee using the SEC schedule based on capital and entity type.
Secure Barangay Clearance
Go to the Barangay Hall where your business is located.
- Submit your business registration (DTI/SEC), lease contract or proof of address, and valid ID.
- Fill out the Barangay Business Clearance application form.
- Barangay clearance fees usually range from about ₱300–₱1,000, depending on the barangay and business size.
Some barangays may conduct an on-site inspection before issuing the clearance.
Obtain Mayor's / Business Permit
Apply at the Business Permits and Licensing Office (BPLO) or Business One-Stop Shop of your City or Municipal Hall.
- Submit your Barangay Clearance and other required documents (DTI/SEC, lease, IDs, etc.).
- Fees vary by LGU but typically range between ₱2,000–₱5,000 depending on the nature and size of your business.
- Mayor's / Business Permit is usually renewed annually.
Register with BIR (Find Your RDO)
Where to Register
Register at the Revenue District Office (RDO) that covers your business's registered address.
- Use the BIR RDO directory on the official BIR website to identify your correct RDO.
- For home-based businesses, this is usually your residential address RDO.
- For office or store locations, use the RDO of the actual business site.
How to Register
- Submit your application at the RDO or via the BIR NewBizReg Portal (if your RDO accepts online submissions).
- Typical documents include DTI/SEC registration, Mayor’s Permit, valid ID, lease contract, and other supporting documents.
The original annual ₱500 BIR registration fee is still referenced in some guides. Always verify with your RDO or the latest revenue regulations whether this fee is currently collected. A ₱30 DST is commonly required.
Additional Compliance (Receipts & Books)
- Apply for Authority to Print (ATP) official receipts and invoices with a BIR-accredited printer. Cost often ranges from ₱2,500–₱5,000.
- Maintain Books of Accounts (e.g., 4–6 columnar ledgers), typically costing around ₱200–₱500.
These are one-time or occasional setup costs; ongoing compliance includes monthly/quarterly and annual tax filings.
💰 Summary of Estimated Registration Fees (2026)
| Requirement | Estimated Fee (₱) |
|---|---|
| DTI/SEC Business Name | ₱230–₱2,530 |
| Barangay Clearance | ₱300–₱1,000 |
| Mayor’s / Business Permit | ₱2,000–₱5,000 |
| BIR Registration Fee (if applicable) | ₱500 |
| Documentary Stamp Tax (BIR) | ₱30 |
| Official Receipts / Invoices Printing | ₱2,500–₱5,000 |
| Books of Accounts | ₱200–₱500 |
These amounts are estimates and can vary by location, business size, and type. Some permits (like Mayor's Permit and Barangay Clearance) require annual renewal. Always verify with your local LGU, RDO, DTI, SEC, and BIR for the latest fees and requirements.