Things to Prepare Before Registering with DTI and BIR
Before you jump into registering your business, there are a few important things to understand. This blog isn't a step-by-step tutorial on how to register with DTI or BIR, but rather a preparation guide to help you plan what you need and what to expect.
Disclaimer: This guide is based on my firsthand experience and my understanding of various BIR issuances, including Revenue Regulations (RR) and Revenue Memorandum Circulars (RMC), which I have referenced. While I strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, tax laws and policies may change. This guide does not substitute professional legal or tax advice. For official and case-specific concerns, I recommend consulting the BIR, DTI, or a tax professional. I am not liable for any misinterpretation or consequences arising from the use of this guide.
DTI Registration: What You Need to Know
1. Where to register your business name?
You can register at the DTI Business Name Registration System
👉 https://bnrs.dti.gov.ph/registration
2. Does DTI registration make my business fully legal?
Not yet. DTI registration only gives you the right to use your business name. To be fully compliant, you must also register with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) and usually with your local government unit (LGU) for a Mayor's Permit.
📌Note: BIR issued RMC No. 57-2020, stating that a Mayor's Permit is no longer required before registering a business with BIR. However, it is still needed for full business registration. This means you can register with BIR while processing your Mayor’s Permit from your Local Government Unit(LGU) at the same time.
3. Can I delay BIR registration after getting my DTI certificate?
Yes, but only within 30 days from the issuance of your DTI certificate. Beyond that, you may be charged a P1,000 penalty for late registration.
4. When is it considered late registration?
A business is considered late in registering with the BIR if it fails to register within 30 days from:
-The issuance date of the DTI Certificate (for sole proprietors).
-The start of business operations (if no DTI registration is required).
If you register beyond this 30-day period, you may be subject to penalties. To avoid this, ensure you register with the BIR within 30 days after securing your DTI registration or starting your business.
Read the following:
5. Can I still use my DTI business name if I missed the 30-day deadline?
Yes, but you'll be penalized. In this case, I recommend:
✔️ Cancel the DTI registration and
✔️ Register a new business name
✔️ Make sure to register with BIR within 30 days next time.
6. How to cancel your business name in DTI?
Watch this video.
Before registering with DTI, prepare the following:
- Business Scope - Choose the right coverage: Barangay, City/Municipality, Regional, or National
- Business Name - Avoid tweaking unavailable names just to bypass availability rules. Also, make sure to check if the domain name for your business is still available. This is important in case you decide to create your own website in the future, so that your domain name matches your registered business name, keeping your brand consistent and professional.
- Business Descriptor - Accurately describe your business type (e.g., Printing Services, Printing Shop and etc.).
- Registration Fees - Depends on scope + P30 DST
-Barangay P200
-City/Municipality P500
-Regional P1,000
-National P2,000
💸 Total: P230+
BIR Registration: What You Need to Know
This part can get a little tricky, so it's really best to consult with a tax consultant. Each RDO (Revenue District Office) can give different instructions, so what worked for me might not necessarily work for you.
If you don't have anyone to ask, it's actually better to walk in directly to your RDO. The waiting time can be long but the good thing is you can ask questions on the spot if there's anything you don't understand.
You can try registering through ORUS. The registration process there is usually fast, but I wouldn't recommend it if you have zero knowledge about the steps involved. Right now, it's also not the best option because their system undergoes maintenance.
Another option is the NewBizReg Portal. However, expect to wait a while. It usually takes 3 to 7 days before your RDO replies.
Before registering with BIR, prepare the following:
- Taxpayer Type - Determine whether you are registering as a Sole Proprietor, Professional, or Mixed Income Earner.
- Tax Option - Decide which tax option is best and applicable to your business.
Watch the following videos if you're having a hard time understanding the different tax options:
Video I: Tax for Sole Proprietor
Video II: Which Tax Option Saves You the Most
Video III: 8% OR 3%? Explained by Ms. Ruthie Nuza
Video IV: What is a Barangay Micro Business Enterprise (BMBE)?
Read this for more info:
- Invoice Type - Determine if you need a Sales Invoice or Service Invoice depending on your business. Please read this.
- Accredited Printer - Find a BIR-accredited printer for your receipts/invoices. Be sure to request a copy of the sample invoice layout. This will be required during your BIR registration, so it's best to have it ready early on.
- Book of Accounts - You'll need to buy 4 columnar books. (Journal, Ledger, Cash Receipts Journal, and Cash Disbursement Journal)
- BIR Form 1901: Once you've decided on your taxpayer classification, tax option, and other details, fill out 2 copies of this form.
- Estimated Expenses
Columnar: P132 (P33 x 4) Buy here.
Documentary Stamp: P30 (walk-in) or P50 (online via ORUS + P20 MYEG service fee)
Official Receipt Booklet: P1,500+ (ask your printer for actual price)
💸Total: P1,600+
📌 Registration Checklist for BIR (Self-Employed Individuals)
Use Form F1101.
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Final Tips
- Plan ahead. Don't register with DTI if you're not ready to commit to BIR within 30 days.
- Ask questions at your RDO or with a trusted tax consultant.
- Keep your receipts, invoices, and Books of Accounts organized from Day 1.
- Be honest in your tax declarations to avoid future problems.
READY TO REGISTER?
If you're planning to start a printing business or sell digital/physical products, make sure your foundation is strong. Proper registration with DTI and BIR will not only legitimize your business, but also open opportunities like access to government support, loans, and business growth.
Good luck!
Got questions? Just leave a comment below!
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