Massachusetts requires anyone who is conducting business under an alias (i.e. any other name than their own), including corporations, to file a business certificate in the community where their business is principally headquartered. This form, also called a "DBA" which stands for "doing business as", contains the name and address of the business and the names and residences of the principals of the business. This certificate must be signed in the presence of a designated clerk in the Office of the City Clerk or a Notary Public. The certificate is effective for four years and the filing fee is $20.00. The fee for filing an amendment is $10.00.
Business Certificate Form (PDF file, opens in PDF reader)

Is this the right time to start your business? Check out this informational questionnaire from the Small Business Development Center. Speak with the Community Development Department at Peabody City Hall about your idea to see how it would fit into Peabody. Contact the Business Liaison at 978-538-5775.

• Contact local banks and credit unions, including those listed in the Peabody Area Chamber of Commerce Directory under Banking, Financing and Insurance
• Small Business Administration for business loans.
• You can also contact the Community Development Department for various local loans including Community Development Authority Business Loans.

To make sure your business name is properly registered and protected and web-ready, contact the Small Business Administration for information.

Meet with a building inspector at City Hall regarding zoning requirements, licenses and permits.

Contact local businesses, including those listed in the Peabody Area Chamber of Commerce Directory under Advertising and Media, for assistance with logo design, advertising & promotion, website design, signs, window dressing, etc.

Check with local businesses, including those listed in the Peabody Chamber of Commerce Directory, for local business accounting, bookkeeping and tax services.

Contact the North Shore Workforce Investment Board for help finding workers. Learn about new hire reporting, employer tax obligations, workers compensation, withholdings, health and safety standards, and minimum wage information.

Prior to registering your business, you will need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) issued by the IRS. To register your business, contact the Building Inspectors Office at Peabody City Hall for the proper paperwork, and once processed, bring it to the City Clerk’s Office at Peabody City Hall to receive your Business Certificate.