DUA Employer Registration (Unemployment Insurance): Boston restaurant guide
Massachusetts Department of Unemployment Assistance
What it is
Every employer that pays wages for work done in Massachusetts must register with DUA for unemployment insurance, then file quarterly wage reports and pay contributions.
When a restaurant needs it
Once you pay wages to your first employee.
How to apply
Register online through Unemployment Services for Employers (you can save progress for 30 days); most registrations are processed immediately and DUA emails next steps.
Documents you’ll need
- Legal business name and FEIN
- Entity type and incorporation details
- Owner/officer SSNs
- Principal business activity in Massachusetts
- Acquired-business details (if you bought an existing restaurant)
Good to know
If you're taking over an existing restaurant, DUA asks about the acquired business — the prior owner's experience rating can follow you.
Official source
Answer a few questions about your space and get every permit in order, with a timeline, a cost range, walkthroughs, and every application filled in for you to sign with Open.
Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.