West Virginia Collection Agency License Guide

In West Virginia, entities who – directly or indirectly – collect or solicit accounts, bills, or indebtedness for others are required to obtain a Collection Agency License. This license is also required for any individual who uses a fictitious name in an attempt to collect their own accounts or claims.

The West Virginia State Tax Department regulates debt collection activity and issues Collection Agency licenses.

All application forms are available online on the Business Registration page via the Tax Department. If you are interested in obtaining a Collection Agency license, complete the following:

• Business Registration form available here .

(The Business Registration acts as the collection agency´s license.)

Note: As document links are updated regularly, they may have expired. If you’re having trouble accessing the forms, go directly to the WV State Tax Department page to find the application you need.

Along with your completed Business Registration form, you are also required to provide the following:

• Employer Identification Number (EIN) - Applicants with employees are required to provide an Employer Identification Number when applying. You can apply for an EIN online through the Internal Revenue Service .

• Workers’ Compensation - All employers in West Virginia must obtain proper workers’ compensation insurance coverage from a licensed insurer. For further information, contact the West Virginia Offices of the Insurance Commissioner.

• Statement of Good Standing - This Statement can be requested online via the State Tax Department.

Collection Agency license applicants are required to file a continuing surety bond with the Tax Commissioner. The bond must be executed by a surety company that is authorized to conduct business in the State of West Virginia.

• Bond Amount : $5,000

All fees are non-refundable. Fees may be paid with credit card or a check/money order.

• Business Registration Fee : $30

The completed Collection Agency license application must be filed electronically via West Virginia’s Business Services Online Portal or via mail, along with the registration fee and any other applicable documentation. Applications must be sent to the following address:

Mailing Address:
West Virginia State Tax Department
PO Box 11425
Charleston, WV 25339

For assistance or additional information, contact the Tax Department at [email protected] or (304) 558-3333.