A home-based business still needs the usual setup (registration, EIN if applicable, licenses) plus a check of your city home occupation rules and HOA or lease restrictions. Decide whether customers visit you or you go to them, protect your home address online if needed, and use a service-area Google Business Profile if you do not serve customers at home.
Home-business checklist
- City home occupation permit or business license checked
- HOA or lease rules checked
- Insurance discussed (home policies often exclude business use)
- Dedicated phone number and business email
- Business bank account
- Decide: customers visit you, or you go to them
Keeping your home address private
- Use a service-area Google Business Profile with the address hidden if customers do not visit you
- Use a registered agent address for state filings where allowed
- Show a service area, not your street, on your website
Worked example
A graphic designer starts from home. She checks the city's home occupation rules, which allow her business since clients rarely visit, and confirms her HOA allows home offices. She uses a mailbox service for her business mailing address, sets up her Google profile without showing her home address, and asks her insurer whether home business equipment is covered.
Common mistakes
- Assuming home businesses never need a license
- Listing a home address publicly when customers never visit
- Storing inventory or chemicals in ways the lease or HOA forbids
- Mixing business and household expenses
- Forgetting to tell the insurer about business equipment
Setting up the workspace
Set aside a dedicated space for work, keep business records and equipment separate, and set working hours so household and business don't blur. If clients visit, keep the area tidy, safe and accessible, and confirm the rules allow visits.
Common questions
Can I list my home on Google?
If you serve customers at your location, yes. If you travel to customers, Google asks service-area businesses to hide the address.
Do I need a business license for a home business?
In many cities, yes. Check your city business license and home occupation rules.
Can clients visit my home office?
Some cities limit customer visits or parking for home businesses; check rules before inviting clients.
Is my home insurance enough?
Often not for business equipment and liability; ask your agent about home business coverage.
Can I deduct home office expenses?
Possibly, under IRS rules for business use of the home. Ask a tax professional how they apply to you.
Do I need a separate phone line?
Not required, but a separate number or app helps keep business calls organized.
Can employees work at my home?
Many home occupation rules limit non-resident employees; check before hiring.
Sources
Sources checked October 6, 2026. Rules, fees and forms change; confirm details with the agency or provider before you act. This guide is general information, not legal, tax or insurance advice.
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