How to Start a Cleaning Business In Michigan

Here are a few steps to take to start a new cleaning business (part or full-time) in the state of Michigan.  These links will help you start just about any type of cleaning business including: residential house cleaning, commercial cleaning, office cleaning, janitorial services, power washing, carpet cleaning, and more.
Getting started- The state of Michigan has a website about starting a new business in Michigan here:  http://www.michiganbusiness.org/start-up/business-assistance/#guidance

1. Select your business structure.

Sole-proprietor, LLC, Partnership, Corporation, etc.  Most small businesses start out as sole-proprietors, but if you want some legal protection, you may want to consider an LLC.

2. Register your new cleaning business name with Michigan.

You need to register your cleaning business name with the state of Michigan.  Check for name availability here: Name Availability

 For help in deciding on a cleaning business name: Choosing a Cleaning Business Name

3.  Register your new cleaning business with Michigan.

You can register your cleaning business with the state of Michigan here: http://www.michigan.gov/taxes/0,4676,7-238-43519_43521_69027_69032-155361–,00.html

4. Open a Business Checking Account.

You will need to open a separate bank account for your cleaning business using your new business name.

5. Find out about taxes and hire an accountant.

You may want to file your own taxes if you are a small business. As you grow, it will be easier to have an accountant do the work. More info about taxes here: http://www.michigan.gov/taxes/ and http://www.irs.gov/Businesses/Small-Businesses-&-Self-Employed/Starting-a-Business

6. Liability Insurance.

You may wish to have liability insurance depending on what type of cleaning business you are starting.  Liability insurance will help protect you from any job-related accidents or problems.

7. City License.

You may be required to obtain a license operate your cleaning business in a particular locale, whether you are a resident, or not.