How to start a cleaning business in Arkansas

Why start a cleaning business in Arkansas?

Arkansas is a good state for starting a cleaning business thanks to its growing economy and increasing demand for cleaning services. The state’s stable job market, affordable cost of living, and supportive business environment provide entrepreneurs with the resources they need to succeed. Arkansas also has diverse industries that create a need for professional cleaning services in both residential and commercial spaces.

Thinking of starting your cleaning business in Arkansas? This article will provide all the essential information you need to know on how to start a home cleaning company in the state of Arkansas, including necessary permits, training for staff, equipment needed, insurance requirements, and more. Let’s get started!

Read this guide first: How to Start a Cleaning Business

For an overview and general guide, including a checklist, to starting a cleaning business, start here: How to Start a Cleaning Business in 10 Steps. 

We suggest you read that first if you haven’t already, then return to this guide to continue with the specific requirements for Arkansas.

Choose a Business Structure for your Cleaning Business 

This is an important step that cannot be skipped. Go here for more information on the different legal structures and which one to choose for your cleaning business.

Do I need a cleaning license in Arkansas?

In Arkansas, there is no state-wide licensing requirement for operating a cleaning business. However, you will likely need a city or county license, depending on where you live. Take time to research the specific licensing laws in your county — we’ll share how to do that in a minute! First, here’s how to apply for an Employer Identification Number:

Apply for an EIN (Employer Identification Number) for Arkansas

You can apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for your home cleaning business in the state of Arkansas by following these steps:

1. Determine if you need an EIN: An EIN is a unique nine-digit number assigned by the IRS to identify a business for tax purposes. You may need an EIN if you have employees or if your business is a partnership or corporation.
2. Gather the necessary information: To apply for an EIN, you will need your legal business name and address, as well as the name and Social Security number of a principal officer.
3. Apply online: The quickest and easiest way to apply for an EIN is online through the IRS’s website. You can fill out the online application form and receive your EIN immediately.
4. Apply by mail or fax: You can also apply for an EIN by mail or fax by completing Form SS-4 and sending it to the IRS. This process can take several weeks.
5. Apply by phone: You can also apply by phone by calling the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line at 1-800-829-4933.

Please make sure you have all the documents ready and also check the state laws in Arkansas as well for any additional requirements.

Here are the steps for an online application:

1. Visit the IRS website at www.irs.gov/businesses and select the option to “Apply for an EIN online.”
2. Complete the online application form, providing information about your business, such as the name and address of the business, the type of business entity, and the name and Social Security Number of the business owner.
3. Submit the application.
4. Once your application has been processed, the IRS will provide you with your EIN.

File/Register your business with Arkansas

The state of Arkansas requires that all businesses register with the Arkansas Secretary of State. 

The cost of registering a business in Arkansas can vary depending on the type of business structure you choose and the specific requirements of your local government. Here are the fees commonly associated with registering an LLC or Corporation in Arkansas:

LLC: A limited liability company (LLC) must file Articles of Organization with the Arkansas Secretary of State, which costs $50.

Corporation: Incorporating a business in Arkansas requires filing Articles of Incorporation with the Secretary of State, which costs $50, as well as obtaining a business license from your local government, which typically costs between $50 and $100.

Business License Requirements in Arkansas

Arkansas does not require a state-wide business license for general house cleaning businesses. But as things often change, check the Secretaty of State guidelines when registering a new business. 

Be sure to also check with your individual county, city, or local municipality at the Local Government Portal. Requirements can vary and some may need a general business tax, licensing, or other filing requirements for business. 

Call your local municipality office and inquire if this is required.

Get Business Insurance 

For a breakdown of why you need insurance, the different kinds of insurance to consider, plus the difference between insurance and bonding, read this guide first.

It is recommended to have business insurance when starting a cleaning business in Arkansas. Business insurance can help protect your business and personal assets in the event of a lawsuit or other legal claim. Common types of business insurance to look into for cleaning businesses include general liability insurance, worker’s compensation insurance, and commercial property insurance.

Get Organized from Day One

Starting a cleaning business in Arkansas comes with a lot of moving parts, and staying organized from the beginning can make all the difference. That’s where ZenMaid comes in. Unlike other scheduling tools, ZenMaid was built specifically for maid services like yours — so you won’t spend hours figuring out features you don’t need.

Our users often tell us that ZenMaid hasn’t just streamlined their scheduling but has actually helped them run a more efficient, less stressful cleaning business. With everything in one place — from booking and scheduling to automated client reminders — it’s designed to save you time and help you focus on growing.

ZenMaid makes it simple to keep things running smoothly from day one. Get started with a 14-day free trial and see how it fits your new cleaning business.

Other Resources

Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce

Owning a Business in Arkansas Government Page

New Business in Arkansas Resource

 The ZenMaid Mastermind

Check these guides out next:

Ways to market your cleaning service for free

How to price your cleaning services 

Free cancelation policy templates

5 automations to grow your cleaning business (that cost less than $100/month)

Still have questions or looking for advice from a fellow cleaning business owner? Ask your question in The ZenMaid Mastermind.