USA State Payroll Rates + Resources: State of Arizona: Obtaining a TIN + Unemployment Insurance

Purpose

This document outlines the processes and requirements associated with becoming a new employer in the state of Arizona. Specifically, we will be covering how to obtain a Tax Identification Number and Register for Unemployment Insurance.

Good to Know!

Note: Federal Employer requirements (obtaining a federal identification number, withholding of federal income tax, and FICA and filing of all applicable federal returns (FUTA, 940, 941, and 1099-C) will not be covered below - just the state of Arizona's requirements. Click here or a basic (not all-inclusive) IRS checklist for Starting a New Business.

Obtaining a TIN + Unemployment Insurance

Companies that pay employees in Arizona must register with the AZ Department of Revenue for a TPT (Arizona Joint Tax Application (JT-1). This is used to apply for Employer Withholding and Unemployment Insurance. The application is called "joint" because it is used by both ADOR (Employer Withholding) and The Department of Economic Security (Unemployment Insurance) and allows the business owner to apply for any multiple licenses and registrations on a single application.

There are three ways to apply for a TPT license:

Online: Go to AZTaxes.gov and register for an online account. This option enables businesses to register, file, and pay TPT online (except for construction contractors). Click here for a step-by-step guide to help you with new user registration and setting up your AZTaxes.gov account.

Mail: Download and complete the Joint Tax Application (JT-1) and mail it to the address indicated on the form.

Arizona Department of Revenue
PO Box 29032
Phoenix, AZ 85038-9032

In-Person: Go to a state office and deliver a completed JT-1 paper application.

When applying in person, only the owner or principal officer of a business who has signed the application can receive the license. Proof of identity will be required. Otherwise, the license will be mailed to the applicant unless a power of attorney is provided. Please note construction contractors must mail or hand-deliver a completed JT-1 paper form.

Overall, vendors who file complete and accurate applications can expect to receive their Arizona TPT license in the following timeframes:

Online: 3-5 business days
By Mail: Mailing time plus 3-5 business days of processing time
In-Person: 3-5 business days