Dog and House Sitting

I have been taking care of critters and their homes for about 7-8 years here in Duluth while their owners are on vacation and such and was recently thinking of making up fliers and business cards. Would I have to “register” or something as a business owner? Is there a certain amount of money you need to make to have to pay taxes? I just don’t want to do something illegal by accident. Any help appreciated.

7 Comments

jkent

about 13 years ago

The best source of information on starting a business in Minnesota that I'm aware of is this:
 http://www.ci.moorhead.mn.us/eda/pdf/A_Guide_To_STARTING_A_BUSINESS_IN_MINNESOTA.pdf

I believe you will find that if you do business as a sole proprietor in your own name, there's really nothing you have to do.  If you do business under a name other than your own, you have to file a Certificate of Assumed Name with the Minnesota Secretary of State's office.

You do have to pay income and self-employment taxes on the money you make (that's true anyway), but you get to deduct legitimate business expenses.

Lou

about 13 years ago

In addition to any info you may have it is important to understand that some sort of liability insurance should be a part of your small business growth.  It is only there when you need it unless you inform the pets/home owners that you have no insurance but you have excellent credentials with which they can speak.  An insurance opt out form would be nice for the homeowners letting them know that you have no insurance.  Good luck.

Slingfade

about 13 years ago

I'd take the time to get bonded and insured as most people won't hire a complete stranger without some proof of legitimacy.

Bad Cat!

about 13 years ago

References and reviews would be a biggie for me.

j

about 13 years ago

I would definitely utilize a service like this at times, even just for a day or two.  However, I would definitely want references and I do most of my research online so a website with credentials, etc. would be good.

wildreed

about 13 years ago

I agree with j. I am often looking for local services like this, but I do my searching online as well, and I imagine a good web site would be useful as part of your marketing tools.

TopOfTheHillMan

about 13 years ago

I used to travel for work more than I do now and utilized someone who offered services like your are offering.  I don't need you anymore, but would also advise along with getting bonded, etc. for business get some kind of vet/grooming training or having had experience working in one.  The person I had was fabulous with my dog, took it home for the evening to play with her dog and family, took him to the lake, etc. Also took wonderful care of my house providing extra services. You have no idea how wonderful it is coming in after a hard week on the road and a long day of crappy air travel and finding your mail stacked, carpet vacuumed, and your dog happy to see you. References would be a must. Rememebr this is a job, and you are in someone else's space.  Act accordingly.

Leave a Comment

Only registered members can post a comment , Login / Register Here

Do NOT follow this link or you will be banned from the site!
Read previous post:
What’s with all the Skeeters?!

Has anybody else being driven crazy by all the mosquitoes in Duluth the past week?! Seriously, it's like Alaska out...

Close