FAQs • Onslow County, NC • CivicEngage

How do I get a business license?: Onslow County does not issue business licenses; however, the Onslow County Tax Department should be contacted concerning business tax status. In reference to a privilege license you should contact the Onslow County Tax Department.

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Finance

1. Does the County get audited?: Yes. Onslow County is audited by an independent external auditing firm on a yearly basis. The auditor's opinion letter is published annually in the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report.

2. How do I get a business license?: Onslow County does not issue business licenses; however, the Onslow County Tax Department should be contacted concerning business tax status. In reference to a privilege license you should contact the Onslow County Tax Department.

3. What are the consequences of writing a worthless check to Onslow County?: In accordance with NCGS 25-3-506 a $25 processing fee will be added to the amount of the check. If the principal amount of the check and the processing fee are not paid to Onslow County within 15 days from the date of the certified letter, the check is taken to the magistrate’s office and a court date is set. If the check is not paid or if the responsible party fails to appear for court on the date set, a warrant is issued for the responsible party's arrest. Court costs are added to the service charge fee and the original amount of the check. This does not apply to checks made payable to the Tax Office for taxes. To obtain information on Tax Office procedures and fees related to non-sufficient checks (nsf) please contact: Onslow County Tax Office.

4. What is the current sales tax rate in Onslow County?: 7% for non food items and 2% for food items.

5. What is the Occupancy Tax Rate?: The Occupancy Tax rate is 3%. For more information about Onslow County 's Occupancy Tax go to the Occupancy Tax page.

6. What is the Payroll Cycle?: Onslow County employees are compensated on a bi-weekly schedule. The pay period is divided into two distinct weeks, the first beginning on Saturday and concluding on the following Friday, and the second beginning the next Saturday and concluding the following Friday. For more details regarding employee compensation, please contact the Human Resources Department.

7. Where can I find phone numbers to other Onslow County departments?: Department contact information may be found in the Staff Directory.

8. Who do I need to speak with about North Carolina Sales Tax?: Begin by contacting the North Carolina Taxpayer Assistance department at 828-667-5087. They should be able to connect you with the correct person.