Create a Business Plan

• Writing out business goals and action steps helps you clarify and organize your priorities.

Choose a business structure

• When starting a business, you will need to select a business structure for your business. This decision impacts how much you pay in taxes and your personal liability (i.e. who is legally responsible for debts). You will need to decide before registering your business.

Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN)

• An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is also known as a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) or Federal Tax Identification Number. It is a unique nine digit number assigned by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
• Generally, businesses need an EIN to pay employees and to file business tax returns.

Register your business in San Francisco

• If you register your business before choosing a final location, you will have to update your registration with the new address. This can cost money and time.

Choose and file a business name

• If you choose to conduct business under a name different than your own (ie. John Doe), you must file a Fictitious Business Name (FBN) with the SF Office of the County Clerk.

Hire staff

• Register for Mobile Washer Permit if you offer mobile washing services such as power washing. Completion of a Mobile Washer Permit application form is required to operate a mobile washer operation.
• Adopt workplace safety measures that comply with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements for the cleaning industry. These include providing a workplace free of hazards, training employees to do their jobs safely, notifying government administrators about serious workplace accidents, and keeping detailed safety records.
• Register with the California Labor Commissioner's Office and provide employees with sexual harassment prevention training once every two years
• Dispose of hazardous materials properly. You can dispose of up to 220 pounds or 27 gallons of hazardous waste using the City’s drop off program at SF Recycling and Disposal Inc. Call (415) 330–1425 for an appointment.
• Consider obtaining insurance to cover accidents. In a cleaning business, you will be performing various types of physical activity and operating in other people’s offices or homes. As a result, it is more likely for injuries and property damage to occur.
• Note: The SF Department of the Environment offers a green cleaning pilot program that certifies local cleaning businesses as Green Businesses.

• Solicit work. There are a number of ways to seek out work, including using the web, word-of-mouth, advertising, and partnerships. 
  • Note: Ask for references from existing customers.  Word-of-mouth can be the most effective way to gain new customers.
• Negotiate compensation & payment plan prior to signing a contract. Consider taking a class or seeking other advice on contracts. 
• Prepare and pay your local, state, and federal taxes.