Do You Need a License to Start a Cleaning Business in Georgia?

Georgia does not require a special state cleaning license. You must register with the Georgia Secretary of State. You also need a local business license and state tax registration. Atlanta and its suburbs each have their own requirements.

What Licenses Do You Need for a Cleaning Business in Georgia?

Georgia is one of the most business-friendly states. There is no state-level cleaning license or permit.

But you still need a few things in place. Here is what Georgia requires to run a legal cleaning business:

• Business registration — file with the Georgia Secretary of State
• Local business license — get an occupational tax certificate from your city or county
• State tax registration — register with the Georgia Department of Revenue
• Employer Identification Number — get one free from the Internal Revenue Service
• Workers' compensation insurance — required if you have three or more employees

How Do You Register Your Business in Georgia?

Georgia offers online registration through the Secretary of State. The process is fast and simple.

Choose Your Business Structure

Most cleaning business owners choose a limited liability company. It protects your personal assets from business debts.

You can also run as a sole owner. This is simpler but offers less protection.

File With the Secretary of State

To form a limited liability company in Georgia, follow these steps:

1. Pick a unique business name — search the Georgia Secretary of State website to check if your name is available
2. File Articles of Organization — submit online at the Georgia Secretary of State portal
3. Pay the filing fee — the fee is $100 online or $110 by mail
4. Name a registered agent — this person receives legal documents for your business
5. Get your confirmation — online filings process in one to two business days

Register a Trade Name

If your business name differs from your legal name, file a trade name. This is sometimes called a "Doing Business As" registration. You file it with the county clerk where you operate.

What Taxes Do Cleaning Businesses Pay in Georgia?

Georgia has several taxes that apply to cleaning businesses. The good news is that cleaning services are not taxed.

State Income Tax

Georgia charges a flat income tax rate. The rate is dropping each year toward 4.99 percent. You pay this on your business profits.

Sales Tax on Cleaning Services

Georgia does not charge sales tax on cleaning services. You do not collect sales tax from your clients.

You still pay sales tax on supplies you buy. The state rate is 4 percent. Local taxes can add up to 5 percent more.

Register With the Department of Revenue

Every business must register with the Georgia Department of Revenue. You can do this online through the Georgia Tax Center. This registration covers your state income tax and any employer taxes.

Employer Taxes

If you hire workers, you owe employer taxes. These include state unemployment tax and federal payroll taxes. You must also withhold state income tax from employee paychecks.

What Insurance Is Required for Cleaning Businesses in Georgia?

Georgia does not require general liability insurance by law. But most clients and contracts require proof of coverage.

General Liability Insurance

This covers damage to a client's property. It also covers injuries that happen during your work. Most policies cost $30 to $60 per month.

Almost every commercial client will ask for proof. Many homeowners expect it too.

Workers' Compensation Insurance

Georgia requires workers' compensation if you have three or more employees. This includes part-time workers. It pays for medical bills and lost wages when a worker gets hurt.

Cleaning business rates run about $2.43 to $3.31 per $100 of payroll. Sole owners and limited liability company members can exempt themselves from coverage.

Commercial Auto Insurance

If you use a vehicle for your cleaning business, you need commercial auto coverage. Personal auto policies do not cover business use. This protects you if you are in an accident while driving to a job.

For a complete breakdown, read our cleaning business insurance guide.

Do You Need an Employer Identification Number in Georgia?

Yes, most cleaning businesses need an Employer Identification Number. This is a tax number for your business.

When You Need One

You must get one if you form a limited liability company. You also need one if you hire employees. Banks require it to open a business bank account.

How to Get One

Apply online at the Internal Revenue Service website. It is free and takes about 10 minutes. You get your number right away after you finish the form.

Sole owners with no employees can use their Social Security number instead. But a separate number keeps your personal information private.

What Are Local Permit Requirements in Major Georgia Cities?

Each city and county in Georgia has its own rules. Most require an occupational tax certificate. This is your local business license.

Here are the requirements for the six largest cities in Georgia:

Costs vary by your revenue and number of employees. Call your local city hall for the exact fee. Some cities also charge a home occupation permit if you work from home.

Atlanta Metro Area Details

Atlanta has the strictest requirements in the state. You need a license from the city of Atlanta itself. If you also work in surrounding cities, you may need separate licenses.

Popular suburbs like Marietta, Roswell, and Sandy Springs each have their own licensing. Check with each city where you plan to work.

How Much Do Georgia Cleaning Business Licenses Cost?

Starting a cleaning business in Georgia is affordable. Here is a breakdown of every cost you can expect.

Your total first-year cost runs between $200 and $700. This does not include insurance, which depends on your coverage level.

Georgia is one of the cheapest states to start a cleaning business. Read our Georgia cleaning business pricing guide to plan your rates.

What Are the Renewal and Compliance Deadlines?

Georgia has clear deadlines for keeping your business in good standing. Missing a deadline can lead to fines or losing your license.

State Registration Renewal

Your limited liability company annual registration is due by April 1 each year. The filing window opens on January 1. The fee is $50 plus a small service charge.

File through the Georgia Secretary of State website. Late filings result in penalties and possible dissolution.

Local License Renewal

Most cities require annual renewal of your business license. Deadlines vary by city. Atlanta renews on a calendar year basis.

Check your city's website for the exact renewal date. Set a reminder so you do not miss it.

Compliance Timeline

Set reminders 30 days before each deadline. This gives you time to gather documents and file on time.