Client contracts
- Sign contracts in the LLC's name, and sign as a member or manager of the LLC — not personally — to protect your liability shield.
- Cover scope, deliverables, fees, payment terms, late fees, and who owns the work product (IP).
- Include limitation of liability, confidentiality, termination, and how disputes are resolved.
- State who's responsible for sales tax, since some consulting services are now taxable in Washington.
- Licensed professions (such as accounting, engineering, law, and real estate) must hold their own license from the relevant Washington board or the Department of Licensing.
Professional insurance
- Professional liability (errors and omissions) covers claims that your advice or work caused a client financial loss. Many clients require it in contracts.
- General liability covers injury or property damage, such as at a client's site.
- Cyber liability matters if you handle client data or systems.
- Licensed professionals may be required to carry malpractice coverage by their board.
- If you hire employees in Washington, you must get workers' comp through L&I.
Invoicing
- Since October 1, 2025, Washington sales tax applies to advertising services, live presentations (courses, seminars, workshops), IT services, custom website development, investigation and security, and temporary staffing.
- If your service is on that list, charge Washington sales tax on invoices to Washington customers and report it to DOR. Some new exclusions took effect July 1, 2026.
- Traditional professional services such as general business consulting, accounting, and legal work are still generally not subject to sales tax.
- All service income is subject to Washington's B&O tax, reported to the Department of Revenue.
- Put your LLC name, invoice number, dates, services, amounts, and any sales tax as a separate line on each invoice.
- Keep invoices and tax records for at least five years.
These are Washington state and federal requirements. Cities and counties often add their own. Requirements and fees change — confirm with the agency before you apply. This is general information, not legal or tax advice.
Other Washington Business Types
Washington Construction & Trades: Licenses and Permits
Contractor registration, bonds, insurance, and trade licenses for construction and trades LLCs in Washington State.
Washington Food Business: Licenses and Permits
Food permits, health department requirements, food worker cards, cottage food, and facility permits for Washington food businesses.
Washington Transportation Business: Licenses and Permits
USDOT numbers, operating authority, UTC permits, IRP/IFTA, CDLs, and insurance for Washington trucking and transportation LLCs.
Washington Ecommerce Business: Licenses, Taxes and Policies
Sales tax, marketplace rules, payment processing, shipping, returns, and privacy policies for Washington ecommerce LLCs.