Child Care / Day Care Permits & Licenses in Roswell, NM

Complete guide to permits and licenses required to start a child care / day care in Roswell, NM. Fees, renewal cycles, and agency contacts.

Domestic Limited Liability Company (LLC) Registration

New Mexico Secretary of State
Required
Fee: $50.00-$50.00
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

Required for all LLCs. Annual report required thereafter ($25 fee, due annually by last day of anniversary month).

Biennial Report (LLC)

New Mexico Secretary of State
Required
Fee: $25.00-$25.00
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

Applies to all LLCs formed after July 1, 2017; biennial filing.

Child Care Facility License

New Mexico Children, Youth and Families Department (CYFD)
Required
Fee: $100.00-$100.00
Renewal: one time
Type: license

Required for all child care facilities serving 1+ unrelated children for 3+ hours/day. Types include family day care, group day care, center-based. Prerequisites: background checks, facility inspections, training (e.g., CPR/First Aid), minimum standards compliance.

Child Care Facility Background Check Registration

New Mexico Department of Public Safety (DPS)
Required
Fee: $15.00-$15.00
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

Mandatory for all owners, directors, employees, volunteers in child care facilities. Includes FBI, state, and registry checks via CYFD licensing process.

Assumed Name (DBA) Registration

New Mexico Secretary of State
May Apply
Fee: $12.00-$12.00
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

Applies if using trade name/DBA different from LLC legal name. Published in county newspaper required.

New Mexico Tax Identification Number (CRS-1)

New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department
Required
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

Required for all businesses with nexus (sales, employees, etc.). Combined Reporting Schedule (CRS-1) for gross receipts tax.

New Mexico Gross Receipts Tax (GRT) Registration

New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department
Required
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

All businesses providing services or selling goods in New Mexico must register for Gross Receipts Tax, including child care providers. Child care services are subject to GRT at the applicable local rate (typically 5.125%–9.4375% depending on jurisdiction). Filed and paid electronically via Taxpayer Access Point (TAP).

Employer Withholding Tax Registration

New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

Required if the LLC hires employees. Employers must withhold state income tax from employee wages and remit it to NM Taxation and Revenue. Registration is done through the same portal as GRT (TAP).

Unemployment Insurance Tax Registration

New Mexico Workforce Solutions Department
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

All employers with one or more employees must register with the New Mexico Workforce Solutions Department. Employers pay unemployment insurance tax annually; new employers typically pay 1.0% on first $8,000 of each employee's wages (as of 2024).

New Mexico State Income Tax Filing Obligation

New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department
Required
Renewal: one time
Type: filing

LLCs taxed as pass-through entities do not pay entity-level income tax in New Mexico. However, owners must report their share of income on personal returns. If the LLC elects corporate taxation, it must file Form CIT-1. Most child care LLCs are pass-through; this entry reflects informational filing responsibility.

Local Business Tax or Privilege License

Varies by municipality
May Apply
Fee: $35.00-$150.00
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

Some municipalities (e.g., Albuquerque, Santa Fe) require a local business license or privilege tax. For example, Albuquerque charges an annual $35 base fee plus gross receipts tax surcharge. Check with city clerk or county assessor. Not required statewide but common in urban areas.

OSHA workplace safety compliance

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
May Apply
Fee: $500.00-$2000.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Child care providers must maintain a safe workplace, including injury and illness prevention, hazard communication, and OSHA Form 300 (injury log) if required. Employers with 10 or fewer employees are generally exempt from maintaining OSHA injury logs unless otherwise notified.

Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN)

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

Although not a state tax, EIN is required for federal tax purposes and often needed for state registrations. Apply online via IRS.gov. All LLCs with employees must have an EIN; single-member LLCs without employees may use SSN but often obtain EIN for liability protection.

New Mexico Franchise Tax Filing

New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department
May Apply
Fee: $50.00-$50.00
Renewal: one time
Type: filing

New Mexico imposes a franchise tax on certain entities. For LLCs, the tax applies only if the total capital exceeds $1 million. Most small child care businesses will not meet this threshold and are exempt. Filing of Form FT-1 is still required if threshold is met.

City of Albuquerque Basic Business License

City of Albuquerque Planning Department
May Apply
Fee: $55.00-$55.00
Renewal: annual
Type: license

Required for all businesses including child care centers; family child care homes may have exemptions - verify with Planning

Bernalillo County Business Registration

Bernalillo County Treasurer's Office
May Apply
Fee: $35.00-$35.00
Renewal: one time
Type: license

Separate from state requirements; applies to businesses outside city limits

Albuquerque Zoning Compliance for Child Care

City of Albuquerque Planning Department
May Apply
Fee: $100.00-$500.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Child care centers require C-1/C-2 zoning; family day homes allowed in residential zones with restrictions (max 12 children)

Albuquerque Home Occupation Permit (Family Child Care)

City of Albuquerque Planning Department
May Apply
Fee: $50.00-$50.00
Renewal: annual
Type: permit

Limited to 4 non-related children; traffic/parking restrictions apply

Albuquerque Building Permit

City of Albuquerque Planning Department
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Required for playground installation, room additions, safety modifications

Albuquerque Fire Safety Inspection and Permit

Albuquerque Fire Rescue
May Apply
Fee: $100.00-$300.00
Renewal: annual
Type: permit

Requires fire alarms, extinguishers, exit lighting, evacuation plans

City of Albuquerque Health Department Child Care Facility Permit

Albuquerque Environmental Health Department
May Apply
Fee: $150.00-$150.00
Renewal: annual
Type: permit

Food handler certification required for staff; sanitation inspections

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Compliance for Child Care Facilities

Department of Justice (DOJ)
Required
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

All child care providers, regardless of size, are considered public accommodations under Title III of the ADA. Must make reasonable modifications to policies, practices, and facilities to ensure access for children and parents with disabilities. Includes physical access, program modifications, and non-discrimination.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Lead Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Rule

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
May Apply
Fee: $100.00-$150.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

If the child care provider performs renovations (e.g., painting, repairs) in pre-1978 facilities, they must use EPA-certified firms and renovators. This applies even if the work is done by the owner. Exemptions exist for minor repairs (<6 sq ft interior or <20 sq ft exterior).

Albuquerque Sign Permit

City of Albuquerque Planning Department
May Apply
Fee: $75.00-$200.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Size/location restrictions by zoning district

Bernalillo County Fire Certificate of Occupancy

Bernalillo County Fire Department
May Apply
Fee: $150.00-$150.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Verifies fire code compliance

Albuquerque Alarm System Permit

Albuquerque Police Department
May Apply
Fee: $49.00-$49.00
Renewal: annual
Type: permit

Required for monitored systems

Workers' Compensation Insurance

New Mexico Workers' Compensation Administration
May Apply
Fee: $1.50-$5.00
Renewal: one time
Type: certificate

Mandated under the Workers' Compensation Act (NMSA 1978, §52-1-1 et seq.). All employers with one or more employees must carry coverage. Sole proprietors without employees are exempt unless in construction. LLC members may be excluded if properly classified, but must file a waiver.

General Liability Insurance

Not applicable (no state mandate)
May Apply
Fee: $500.00-$2000.00
Renewal: one time
Type: certificate

Not mandated by general state law but required as part of child care licensing regulations (NMAC 7.12.2). CYFD requires proof of general liability insurance as a condition of licensure. Minimum coverage typically $1 million per occurrence.

Surety Bond (Child Care License Bond)

New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department (CYFD)
May Apply
Fee: $100.00-$300.00
Renewal: one time
Type: certificate

A surety bond of $5,000 is required for all licensed child care centers and group homes under NMAC 7.12.2.12. The bond must be issued by a state-approved surety and filed with CYFD. It protects against violations of child care licensing laws and regulations.

Commercial Auto Insurance

New Mexico Motor Vehicle Department (MVD)
May Apply
Fee: $1200.00-$2500.00
Renewal: one time
Type: certificate

New Mexico law (NMSA 1978, §66-5-201) requires all motor vehicles registered in the state to carry minimum liability coverage: $25,000 bodily injury per person, $50,000 per accident, and $10,000 property damage. Applies to any vehicle used for child transportation.

Professional Liability / Errors and Omissions Insurance

Not applicable
May Apply
Fee: $800.00-$2000.00
Renewal: one time
Type: certificate

Not explicitly mandated by statute, but strongly implied through licensing standards requiring risk management. While not listed as a direct mandate, CYFD regulations require safe practices and accountability. Many licensed providers carry E&O insurance as part of compliance best practices. Not a standalone legal mandate but often bundled with general liability.

Product Liability Insurance

Not applicable
May Apply
Fee: $500.00-$2000.00
Renewal: one time
Type: certificate

No state mandate for separate product liability insurance. However, businesses selling tangible goods assume liability under New Mexico Product Liability Act (NMSA 1978, §38-11-1 et seq.). Coverage is typically included in general liability policies. Required only if products are sold, not for standard child care services.

Liquor Liability Insurance

Not applicable
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: certificate

Only applicable if the child care facility holds a liquor license, which is extremely rare and generally prohibited due to licensing conflicts. Not relevant for standard child care operations. Mandated only if ABC license is obtained under NMSA 1978, §60-6A-1 et seq.

Child Care Facility Bond

New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department (CYFD)
May Apply
Fee: $100.00-$600.00
Renewal: one time
Type: certificate

Bond amount varies by facility capacity: $5,000 (1–12 children), $10,000 (13–24), $25,000 (25+). Must be issued by a state-approved surety and filed with CYFD. Required under NMAC 7.12.2.12.

Employer Identification Number (EIN) for LLC

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

Even single-member LLCs without employees may need an EIN to open a business bank account or comply with state requirements. While not always mandatory federally for sole proprietors without employees, it is strongly recommended and often functionally required.

Federal Income and Self-Employment Tax Filing for LLC

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
Required
Renewal: one time
Type: filing

LLCs are pass-through entities by default. Single-member LLCs report income on Schedule C of Form 1040. Multi-member LLCs file Form 1065 and issue Schedule K-1s. Self-employment taxes (Social Security and Medicare) apply to net earnings.

Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Compliance with Advertising and Consumer Protection Rules

Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
Required
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Child care providers must ensure all advertising (websites, brochures, social media) is truthful and not misleading. Applies to claims about safety, staff qualifications, curriculum, capacity, and accreditation. FTC enforces against deceptive or unsubstantiated claims.

Department of Labor (DOL) Wage and Hour Compliance (Fair Labor Standards Act)

Wage and Hour Division, U.S. Department of Labor
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Child care providers must comply with federal minimum wage ($7.25/hour), overtime (1.5x regular rate after 40 hours/week), and recordkeeping requirements. Some exemptions may apply for certain administrative or professional staff, but most child care workers are non-exempt.

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) compliance

Department of Labor (DOL)
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Eligible employees are entitled to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for qualifying family and medical reasons. Most small child care providers do not meet the 50-employee threshold, but larger centers may.

I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification

U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

All employers, including child care providers, must complete Form I-9 to verify identity and work authorization for every employee. E-Verify is not required federally unless in a state or contract that mandates it.

Federal Child Care Licensing and Reporting (via Child Care and Development Fund)

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: filing

While federal law does not license child care providers directly, participation in the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) requires compliance with federal standards and reporting. New Mexico providers accepting subsidies must meet federal oversight and data reporting requirements.

Annual Report Filing for LLC

New Mexico Secretary of State
Required
Fee: $50.00-$50.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

All LLCs registered in New Mexico must file an annual report with the Secretary of State to maintain good standing. The report updates business information such as principal address, registered agent, and management structure.

Child Care License Renewal

New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department (CYFD)
Required
Fee: $120.00-$120.00
Renewal: biennial
Type: license

All child care centers and group homes must be licensed by CYFD. Licenses are issued for two years. Renewal requires compliance with the Child Care Licensing Act and rules, including staff background checks, facility inspections, and program standards.

Fire Safety Inspection

New Mexico Fire Marshal’s Office
Required
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

All licensed child care facilities must pass an annual fire safety inspection. The inspection includes review of exits, fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and evacuation plans. Results are reported to CYFD.

Health Inspection (Food and Sanitation)

New Mexico Environment Department - Local Public Health Offices
Required
Renewal: annual
Type: permit

Child care facilities that prepare or serve food must undergo annual health and sanitation inspections. Inspections cover food handling, handwashing, diapering areas, and disease prevention protocols.

Building and Safety Inspection

Local Building Department or CYFD
Required
Renewal: biennial
Type: permit

Inspections ensure compliance with building codes, electrical safety, playground safety, and accessibility. Conducted by CYFD or local authorities as part of licensing and renewal.

Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) Annual Filing (Form 940)

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
May Apply
Renewal: annual
Type: filing

Form 940 reports Federal Unemployment Tax Act (FUTA) tax. Applies only if the business employs staff. Even if no tax is due, filing may be required.

Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) Quarterly Filing (Form 941)

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
May Apply
Renewal: varies
Type: filing

Form 941 reports income taxes, Social Security, and Medicare taxes withheld from employees. Due quarterly. Required for all employers with W-2 employees.

New Mexico Withholding Tax Filing

New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department
May Apply
Renewal: varies
Type: filing

Employers must withhold state income tax from employee wages and file returns. Filing frequency is based on the amount withheld.

New Mexico Sales Tax Filing

New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department
May Apply
Renewal: varies
Type: filing

Child care services are generally exempt from gross receipts tax in New Mexico under NMSA 1978, Section 7-9-403(D)(1), but any taxable sales (e.g., food, merchandise) must be reported. Confirm exemption status with TTD.

Continuing Education for Child Care Staff

New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department (CYFD)
Required
Fee: $20.00-$100.00
Renewal: annual
Type: certificate

All child care staff must complete 12 hours of professional development annually, including pediatric CPR and first aid certification. Training must be from an approved provider.

Required Postings in Facility

New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department (CYFD)
Required
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Required postings include: current child care license, emergency procedures, staff qualifications, parent handbook, and applicable labor law posters (e.g., minimum wage, OSHA).

OSHA Poster (Employment Rights and Responsibilities)

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

The OSHA Job Safety and Health: It's the Law poster must be displayed in a prominent location accessible to employees. Required for all employers with workers.

New Mexico Minimum Wage Poster

New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Employers must display the current minimum wage poster, which includes state and federal rates, pay requirements, and employee rights.

Record Keeping for Child Care Operations

New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department (CYFD)
Required
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Required records include attendance logs, medication administration, incident reports, staff training documentation, emergency contacts, and health records. Must be available for inspection.

Background Checks for Staff and Volunteers

New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department (CYFD)
Required
Fee: $40.00-$60.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

All staff and volunteers over 18 must undergo fingerprint-based criminal history record check through the FBI and New Mexico Bureau of Criminal Investigations (BCI).

New Mexico Gross Receipts Tax Filing

New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department
Required
Renewal: one time
Type: filing

Child care services are generally exempt from GRT under NMSA 1978, Section 7-9-403(D)(1), but revenue from sales of tangible goods must be reported.

Step-by-Step Compliance Guide

  1. First, obtain a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS, which is required even if you don't plan to hire employees.
  2. Next, ensure compliance with FTC advertising and consumer protection rules, as the Federal Trade Commission regulates how you market your day care services.
  3. You must also adhere to Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards, with potential costs ranging from $5000.00 to $10000.00 for compliance.
  4. Federal Income Tax Return filing with the IRS is required annually, using Form 1120 or 1065 depending on your business structure.
  5. Secure Professional Liability/Errors & Omissions Insurance, with premiums potentially ranging from $500.00 to $2000.00.
  6. Comply with Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) regulations, especially concerning products used by children in your care.
  7. Understand your Federal Tax Filing Obligations as an LLC, ensuring accurate and timely submissions to the IRS.
  8. Finally, maintain awareness of Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Truth-in-Advertising and Consumer Protection Compliance requirements.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Assuming state and local permits cover all federal requirements is a common error.
  • Failing to file federal income taxes on time can result in significant penalties.
  • Ignoring ADA compliance can lead to lawsuits and substantial fines.
  • Neglecting to obtain an EIN when required can cause issues with banking and taxes.
  • Believing that no industry-specific federal licenses are needed means overlooking crucial CPSC regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What federal permits are specifically required for a child care business in Roswell, NM?

Currently, no industry-specific federal licenses are required for child care operations; however, several federal compliance requirements apply, such as those from the FTC and CPSC.

What is the cost associated with FTC compliance?

The fee for FTC Compliance with Advertising and Consumer Protection varies, but it's important to understand the regulations regarding advertising and consumer protection.

Is there a fee for obtaining an EIN from the IRS?

No, obtaining a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS is free of charge, but it is a required step for many businesses.

What does ADA compliance entail for a day care center?

ADA compliance means ensuring your facility is accessible to individuals with disabilities, which can include physical modifications and policy adjustments, with costs varying widely.

What are the implications of not complying with CPSC regulations?

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) sets safety standards for children's products; non-compliance can result in product recalls, fines, and legal action.

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