Do you need a business license to do magic? For instance if you are an independent contractor/self-employed and have a manager/agent would you need a business license? If so what happens if you travel and perform in multiple states?

No you do not need a business license as you are a service independent contractor. You will need a license if you have a retail shop and sell merchandise.

Go to your local government building and check it out. They will tell you the same thing. Now if your city has laws for street vendors and you wnat to stand on a street corner selling tricks or busking for cash, that may be a different situtation.

It all depends on what you are speaking of when you say, "to do magic?", if you want to show tricks to your family and friends, then you do not need a license.

Respectfully, the correct answer is: It depends on your local laws. Some areas, like mine, license entertainers the same as they do amusements (video games, inflatables, etc.) North Carolina ( and several other states ) have bills pending that will require services to pay sales tax just like retailers - and, in North Carolina, clowns & magicians are specifically addressed. Check with your local tax office to see what licensing requirements are available in your area. Don't wait for them to hunt you down and hit you with past fees, taxes and penalties.

Ummm.. I wouldn't check with the tax office.. contact a CPA..

They know the laws better than the tax "Officials" and most of the time want to help you

the government office will tell you to pay for more and more and more even if you don't need it..

Thank you guys, I appreciate the help. This is why this place is so great, can always get help and answers no matter what they are. Thank You