- If this site appears to be broken or down
This site works best with Internet Explorer version 6.0 or version 7.0. Please try using either one if these versions of IE if you are having difficulties with the site.
top
- I completed the Online Business Registration Interview (OBRI), what happens now?
After the electronic registration information is sent to the appropriate Commonwealth agency(ies), each agency will respond directly to you.
A business registration processing timeline has been developed to provide users with information about the expected processing time for each tax and/or service that can be applied for through the OBRI. Click here to view the timeline.
top
- I want to register my business using the Online Business Registration, do I need anything before I can begin?
The items needed to complete the Online Business Registration Interview (OBRI) depend upon many factors. The OBRI is organized into six sections. Each section has a group of interview questions that are individually tailored based upon the answers to previous questions. If required information is not available, use the "Pause" button to suspend your interview. The interview information completed thus far will be securely stored in the briefcase.
top
- Are there any fees associated with registering a business, or using the site,or for using the OBRI?
The Pennsylvania Open for Business web site does not charge a fee for using this site or for using the Online Business Registration Interview (OBRI). However, some Commonwealth agencies do charge a fee for some of the business services for which you will need to register before you can operate your business.
Click here to view a schedule of fees.
top
- Are there phone numbers I can call to speak to someone from a specific agency?
There is a "Help" link on the left navigation bar on each page of the Online Business Registration Interview. Contact information is listed for each agency, based on the type of question.
Questions related to business structure, fictitious name registration, etc. can be directed to the PA Department of State Customer Service at: #717-787-1057.
Tax-related questions can be directed to the PA Department of Revenue Taxpayer Service and Information Center at: #717-787-1064.
If you need additional help regarding starting or expanding your business, please contact the PA Department of Community & Economic Development’s Center for Entrepreneurial Assistance at #800-280-3801.
top
- Where do I find help in defining the terms used?
There is a "Glossary" link on the left navigation bar on each page of the interview. All highlighted terms within the interview are defined within the glossary. If you find a highlighted term that you do not understand i n the interview, click on it and the glossary will appear.
Click here to view the glossary
top
- How do I know that my registration has been received?
A confirmation email is sent to your email address. Also, a confirmation screen appears as part of the OBRI. "The electronic registration information has now been sent to the appropriate agencies within the Commonwealth" appears at the top of the screen.
top
- How can I get copies of the completed forms?
First, visit the PA Open for Business homepage and click on the My Briefcase link on the left navigation. Your paused interview may be stored in your briefcase. If the interview is not in your briefcase, there is a "Help" link on the left navigation bar on each page of the interview. Contact information is listed for each agency, based on the type of question. You will need to contact each agency.
top
- What is an e-Signature?
An electronic signature (e-Signature) is an electronic sound, symbol or process associated with a record, and executed or adopted by a person with the intent to sign the record. It is a way of identifying a person who is conducting electronic transactions with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Certain taxes / services require an e-signature in order to properly complete a transaction.
top
