Do I Need a Seller's Permit in California? (2026)
Updated: Nov 2
Quick answer: If you sell or lease physical products in California that are normally taxed when sold at retail, the law requires a seller's permit from the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA). The state does not charge for the permit itself, but it can ask for a security deposit, and once you have the permit you must report sales and use tax on the schedule CDTFA assigns. Short-term sellers may need a temporary permit instead.
Hi, I'm Karla. Market vendors, online shops, crafters and food sellers in the Concord area often ask me this first, before they even pick a business name. The answer depends on what you sell and where, and getting it right from the start avoids problems with your tax returns later.
The steps to get a California seller's permit
Confirm that what you sell is taxable. A permit is required if you sell or lease tangible items (things you can touch) that are normally subject to sales tax. This applies to retailers and wholesalers, whether you are an individual, a partnership, an LLC or a corporation.
Have your business and owner information ready. The state asks for details about the business and about the people who run it, such as partners, officers, managers or members.
Account for every selling location. If you sell from more than one separate place, each location may need its own permit.
Register with CDTFA. In some cases CDTFA sets a security deposit when it reviews your registration.
Display your permit and file your returns. Display the permit where it's clearly visible at your location, keep good records and report sales and use tax on the schedule CDTFA gives you.
Quick FAQ
Is a seller's permit free?
CDTFA does not charge a fee for a seller's permit. It may ask for a security deposit in some cases.
I only sell at a few events a year. Do I still need one?
If you sell for short periods, such as holiday or craft sales, you may need a temporary permit instead. Very occasional sellers may not need a permit at all. CDTFA usually issues these for sales lasting no more than 90 days at one location.
Do I need a permit for each location?
Possibly. If you sell from more than one separate place, CDTFA asks for details on all of them and you may need a permit for each.
What I do for you
Check whether you need it. We review what you sell and where, including events, markets and online sales.
Prepare your registration. I gather your business and owner information and complete the registration with you, so nothing is entered wrong.
Keep you on schedule. Your sales tax filing dates go on a calendar with reminders, so no return is missed.
Let's do it together
Selling at markets, online or from home? Let me handle the permit paperwork so you can focus on selling. I offer a free first consultation in English or Spanish, remote or in person, for small businesses in the Concord, CA area, serving Contra Costa, Alameda and San Francisco counties.
Karla I. Vasquez · KCK Professional Services by Karla
510-998-7004 · kckprofessionalservices@gmail.com · kckproservices.com
Sources: California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA), Publication 107 and guidance for temporary sellers. Information current as of November 2026.
This article is general information to help you understand the process. It is not legal, tax or financial advice. Karla I. Vasquez and KCK Professional Services are not attorneys, CPAs or tax advisors and are not a law firm. Fees, forms and rules change, so always confirm with the official agency before you file. For advice about your situation, talk to a licensed attorney or tax professional.
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