Steps to Launch a Handyman Service in the US

Starting a handyman service can be a profitable opportunity for US small business owners. With demand for repairs, installations, and maintenance steadily growing, entrepreneurs can build a successful business by combining hands-on skills with careful financial management. Leveraging professional accounting services in the US ensures your finances stay organized, compliant, and scalable.

1. Write a Handyman Business Plan

A solid business plan is the foundation of a thriving US small business.

• Define the services you will offer (repairs, installations, maintenance, etc.)

• Identify your target market and ideal clients

• Set pricing, goals, and projected revenues

Tip: Planning ahead allows you to track costs, revenue, and growth with accounting services in the US

2. Get Required Licenses and Permits

Licensing requirements vary by state and local jurisdiction.

• Some states require a handyman license or general contractor license for certain projects

• Example: In California, unlicensed handypersons can perform work up to $1,000 (materials + labor) if no permit is needed and no workers are hired (effective Jan 1, 2025)

• Requirements differ widely in other states, so always check your local licensing office

• Common licenses and permits may include:

  • General business license

  • Contractor license

  • Building permits for specific projects

  • Insurance certificates

3. Register Your Business

Proper registration protects your business legally and simplifies taxes.

• Choose a business structure: sole proprietorship, LLC, partnership, or corporation

• Register your business name with your state or county clerk

• Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS if you have employees or register as an LLC/corporation

Tip: Accurate registration helps with bookkeeping and compliance when using accounting services in the US

 Still doing accounting the old way? Your competitors aren’t. Counto’s AI handles the boring stuff while experienced accountants ensure everything’s perfect. See the future of accounting here.

4. Secure Funding

Funding ensures you can cover startup and operational costs.

• Estimate startup costs for tools, vehicles, insurance, and marketing

• Explore financing options: personal savings, bank loans, or small business grants

• Track all expenditures with accounting services in the US to manage cash flow effectively

5. Set Up Finances and Insurance

Financial organization and risk management are critical.

• Open a dedicated business bank account

• Obtain handyman business insurance:

  • General liability insurance

  • Workers’ compensation if hiring employees

• Use accounting services in the US to streamline invoicing, track expenses, and prepare taxes

6. Buy Tools and Equipment

Quality tools and reliable transportation are essential for efficiency and client satisfaction.

• Invest in professional-grade tools for the services you offer

• Maintain a dependable vehicle for transporting tools and materials

• Proper cost tracking ensures profitability for your US small business

7. Market Your Business

Effective marketing drives client acquisition and business growth.

• Build an online presence: website, social media, and local business directories

• Network with real estate agents, property managers, or local communities

• Advertise services online or in local publications

• Track marketing spend and ROI using accounting services in the US

How Counto Can Help

Running a handyman service involves more than just performing repairs—it requires smart financial management. Counto helps US small business owners handle the financial side so you can focus on your trade:

• Accounting Services in the US: Track project costs, revenue, and profitability

• Payroll Management: Pay employees or subcontractors efficiently and compliantly

• Tax Compliance: Stay up-to-date with federal, state, and local tax obligations

• Financial Insights: Analyze performance and make informed growth decisions

With Counto, you get the combination of smart automation and expert accountants, helping your handyman business run smoothly and profitably.

Summary

Launching a handyman service is a strong opportunity for US small business owners. From licensing and registration to marketing and project management, success depends on careful planning and financial oversight. Leveraging professional accounting services in the US ensures you track costs, stay compliant, and make informed decisions—turning your handyman skills into a sustainable and profitable business.

Modern Accounting That Finally Gets Your Business

Running a small business means wearing too many hats. Your accounting shouldn’t add to that burden. Yet traditional bookkeeping services keep asking the same questions month after month.

Counto delivers outsourced accounting that gets smarter over time. Our AI platform learns your unique business patterns and automatically handles daily transactions, while expert accountants ensure everything’s accurate. With direct WhatsApp access to your Customer Success Manager, you get enterprise-level financial management without the enterprise price tag.

Experience accounting that works as hard as you do. Our small business clients cut bookkeeping time by hours and never miss a tax deadline. Ready for accounting that understands your business? To get started, speak to us directly on our chatbot, email [email protected], or use our contact form.

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