How to start a cleaning business in New Jersey

Why start a cleaning business in New Jersey?

Are you tired of your day job and ready to start your own business? Well, have you ever considered starting a cleaning business in the great state of New Jersey? Not only is it the most densely populated state in the US, but with its beautiful beaches, bustling cities, and quaint towns, there’s never a shortage of places to clean. But before you get started, there are a few things you should know.

This article will provide all the essential information you need to know on how to start a home cleaning company in the state of New Jersey, 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 New Jersey.

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 New Jersey?

To clean professionally in New Jersey, you don’t necessarily need a cleaning license, but you may need to register with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs as a Home Improvement Contractor or a Service Contract Provider, depending on the type of cleaning you will be doing.

To learn more about cleaning codes and cleaning certifications, save this post to read next. 

Apply for an EIN (Employer Identification Number) for New Jersey

You can apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for your home cleaning business in the state of New Jersey 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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey

The state of New Jersey requires that all businesses register with Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services, which is part of the New Jersey Department of the Treasury.

The cost to register an LLC or Corporation in New Jersey can vary depending on the type of entity you’re registering and how you choose to file. The fee usually starts at $150 if filing online. 

To file as an LLC in New Jersey, you’ll need to file a Certificate of Formation with the New Jersey Department of Treasury. This document includes basic information about your business, such as the name, address, and purpose of the LLC. 

To file as a corporation in New Jersey, you’ll need to file Articles of Incorporation with the New Jersey Department of Treasury. This document includes information about your corporation, such as its name, purpose, and the names and addresses of its officers.

For more filing instructions and a full list of expected costs, please visit the state’s online portal.

Business License Requirements in New Jersey

New Jersey does require a business license for general house cleaning businesses. But as things often change, check with the state’s licensing needs when registering a new business.

Be sure to also check with your individual county, city, or local municipality. 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 New Jersey 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.

Other Resources

New Jersey Chamber of Commerce

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.