Worcester business owners trust 1-800Accountant's expert CPAs to manage their bookkeeping and tax needs, freeing up valuable time to focus on growth and profitability.
Business Tax Preparation: Have your taxes prepared and filed by a CPA with expertise in your industry so you're always confident in your business tax situation. Our CPAs, with more than 17 years of experience on average, can save you thousands annually when you delegate complex Worcester tax preparation to them!
Bookkeeping: Solidify your financial base and manage cash flow with precise, error-free bookkeeping done for you that saves time and provides crucial insights that empower you to make important data-backed business decisions. This meticulous process delivers essential tools for interpreting data with easy-to-understand reporting, enabling your accountant to develop vital financial modeling.
Tax Advisory: Business tax considerations don't end in April. Through our affordable tax advisory service, you can receive the guidance you need when you need it year-round from a dedicated small business tax advisor. Strategic planning helps minimize your business tax liability in Massachusetts throughout the year while ensuring compliance.
Payroll: Save hours each pay period with comprehensive payroll services handled for you, with regular tax submissions to the city of Worcester, ensuring accuracy and freeing you to focus on other vital aspects of your business.
Business Formation: Enjoy the advantages of officially establishing your business in Massachusetts with our complimentary incorporation services. Simply cover any Worcester fees, and we will manage the rest. This puts you on a path to hiring employees and creating a business bank account as you experience the benefits of an optimized business structure and maximum tax savings.
Level | Rate |
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State Tax Rate | 6.25% |
County Tax Rate | None |
Municipal Tax Rate | None |
Combined Sales Tax Rate | 6.25% |
City-Specific Taxes |
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Businesses that own commercial real estate in Worcester pay a tax of $30.04 per $1,000 of assessed property value under the Commercial Property Tax. |
Licenses and Permits |
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All Worcester businesses operating under a name different from the owner's legal name must file a Business Certificate (DBA) with the City Clerk's Office, valid for 4 years. |
The following businesses require city-specific licensing: entertainment venues, restaurants, special events. |
New businesses or those changing locations need zoning approval from Worcester's Inspectional Services Department. |
Building permits are required for any construction or renovation of business premises. |
Grants and Funding in Worcester | Grants and Funding Information |
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Small Business Grant Program | Assists new and existing small businesses in Worcester with funding for creation, expansion, or physical improvements. The program particularly focuses on businesses in targeted commercial corridors throughout the city. |
Diverse Business Certification Grant Program | Provides $5,000 grants to Worcester businesses that obtain state certifications as Minority-Owned, Women-Owned, Veteran-Owned, Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned, LGBT-Owned, or Disability-Owned. Businesses must complete certification with the Massachusetts Supplier Diversity Office (SDO) or affiliated certifiers. Applications accepted on a rolling basis through November 1, 2025. |
Economic Development Incentive Program (EDIP) | State program supporting business growth with tax credits for job creation and development projects in Worcester. Part of Massachusetts' comprehensive business support initiatives that help businesses start, expand, or relocate within the city. |
Tax Incentives | Local and state tax incentives offered to qualifying businesses that start, expand, or relocate within Worcester. Programs vary by business size, industry, and location within the city, providing financial relief to encourage economic development. |
When choosing an accountant or bookkeeper for your Worcester small business, you should consider the following factors:
Certifications and State Compliance: Seek professionals with appropriate credentials, particularly CPAs familiar with Massachusetts tax laws. Worcester businesses must navigate both state-specific requirements and local ordinances, so your accountant should demonstrate thorough knowledge of Massachusetts tax filing deadlines and compliance standards.
Industry-Specific Experience: Look for accountants with experience serving Worcester's growing sectors like healthcare, biotechnology, higher education, and manufacturing. A financial professional who has worked with similar businesses in the Worcester area will better understand your fiscal challenges and opportunities, providing more tailored guidance for your operation.
Knowledge of Local Economic Landscape: Select an accountant who understands Worcester's unique business environment, including the city's transition from traditional manufacturing to education, healthcare, and technology sectors. This knowledge helps contextualize financial decisions within Worcester's evolving economic landscape, especially as the city continues revitalizing areas like the Canal District.
Familiarity with Massachusetts Tax Incentives: Massachusetts offers various tax credits and incentives, including those for research and development, life sciences companies, and historic rehabilitation projects. A Worcester-focused accountant can help your business access relevant programs like the Massachusetts Life Sciences Tax Incentive Program or identify opportunities within Worcester's designated Economic Opportunity Zones.
*Based on a $12.2k average 2022 tax refund per client, which is 4x the cost of a full-service package. Source: first-party data.
*Includes average business tax preparation, form completion and submission, record keeping, and other misc admin time. Source.
*Historical first-party data.