Is SELF being replaced with another online system?
Yes. Seattle has partnered with other WA state cities to adopt
FileLocal (www.filelocal-wa.gov)
as our multi-jurisdictional online portal for business licensing and tax.
When will SELF be decommissioned?
We estimate that the system will be taken offline in 2020*. To prepare for this transition,
we encourage businesses to get their business accounts set up with their license(s) linked in FileLocal as soon as possible.
Additionally, SELF users should download copies of their returns filed online that they wish to retain.
At this time, Seattle is not planning to leave SELF up in an archival capacity so past filed forms will be
irretrievable once the system is taken offline.
*Final notification will be distributed prior to going offline.
Will my SELF login work in FileLocal?
No. A business must first register at FileLocal by creating a Business Account then the Seattle license can be linked.
A new User Name and Password will be created during your setup, and the system will request your City Account Number
to complete the link for each business location. You can look up your City Account Number(s) here:
http://www.seattle.gov/business-licensing-and-taxes/find-a-licensed-business
Tax Preparers can set up a Prepare Account to file for multiple businesses. The Business Account owners for
each account will be notified when a Preparer requests access.
For information about Account Setup in FileLocal, or for assistance with account retrieval or password resets
please contact their web support directly at 1-877-693-4435.
Does FileLocal function the same as the SELF system?
No. Since FileLocal is a multi-city portal, we were unable to make the system function exactly like SELF.
However, we believe the benefits of using the same portal for your multi-jurisdictional tax and licensing needs
offsets the interface differences between the two systems.
Notable differences between the two systems are:
- Users can link licenses for multiple cities to each location registered, allowing them to renew licenses
and file/pay taxes for multiple jurisdictions in one system.
- Users will no longer be able to prepare/submit a tax form and pay separately with a check by mail.
A tax filing must be accompanied by electronic payment in order to file via FileLocal. If you are unable
to pay electronically, please contact our office to request a paper tax form after the SELF system is taken
offline (tax@seattle.gov).
- Returns where no taxes are owed may still file without electronic payment.
- Payments for Seattle’s Regulatory License fees cannot be paid via FileLocal. We are sorry for any inconvenience this may cause.
Can I apply for a Business License Tax Certificate with SELF?
No. Online applications are only accepted through the FileLocal system
(www.filelocal-wa.gov).