How to start a cleaning business in Mississippi is one of the most searched questions among new service entrepreneurs looking for a low-cost, high-demand market. Mississippi offers affordable startup costs, low competition in many areas, and steady demand across residential and commercial cleaning. However, knowing how to start a cleaning business in Mississippi correctly means understanding local tax rules, registration requirements, and city-level regulations before taking on your first client.
For national startup costs, read:
👉 The Cost to Start a Cleaning Business in the USA: The 2026 Complete Guide
Step 1: Mississippi Sales Tax on Cleaning Services
Unlike some states, Mississippi taxes cleaning services.
The Rule
House cleaning, janitorial services, and commercial cleaning are considered taxable services by the Mississippi Department of Revenue (DOR).
What You Must Do
You must register for Mississippi Sales Tax before taking your first paid job.
Register here:
👉 Mississippi Department of Revenue – Sales Tax
The Rate
- 7% state sales tax
- Some cities may add local tourism or special taxes
Example:
If you charge $150 for a house clean in Jackson, you must collect $160.50 from the customer and remit the tax to the state.
⚠️ Warning:
If you forget to collect sales tax, Mississippi will still demand payment — directly from you — plus penalties and interest.
Step 2: Registering Your Cleaning Business (LLC or Sole Proprietor)
If you want to know how to start a cleaning business in Mississippi legally, business registration is non-negotiable.
Forming an LLC in Mississippi
- Cost: $50 (one-time filing fee)
- Where: Mississippi Secretary of State
File here:
👉 Mississippi Secretary of State – Business Services
Annual Reports
Mississippi LLCs must file an annual report by April 15th every year.
- Cost: $0
- Missing this deadline can result in administrative dissolution.
Step 3: DBA (Doing Business As) Rules
If you operate as a sole proprietor and use a business name like “Magnolia Maid Services”, you must file a DBA.
- Filed with your County Chancery Clerk
- Required in each county you operate in
Step 4: Local Permits & City Rules
Mississippi does not require a statewide cleaning license, but cities and counties may.
Examples:
- Jackson: Business privilege licenses
- Gulfport & Biloxi: Local business permits
- Commercial cleaning: Possible environmental rules for chemical disposal
Always check your local city or county website before operating.
Step 5: Insurance & Hiring Employees
General Liability Insurance
Strongly recommended. Mississippi property owners expect professionalism, especially for commercial jobs.
Workers’ Compensation
Mississippi requires workers’ comp once you have 5 or more employees. Even with fewer workers, many commercial contracts demand proof of coverage.
Learn more:
👉 Mississippi Workers’ Compensation Commission
Step 6: Operating Across Mississippi (Travel Strategy)
Mississippi may not have Texas-sized cities, but rural distance adds up fast.
- Long drives between towns increase fuel costs
- Weather and rural roads affect scheduling
- Efficient routing is essential to stay profitable
This is where smart systems matter.
Why ProCleanerUS Works for Mississippi Cleaning Businesses
If you’re serious about how to start a cleaning business in Mississippi and scale it, ProCleanerUS is built for it.
âś” Automated sales tax calculations
âś” Route optimisation for rural and city jobs
âś” Mobile app for cleaners in low-signal areas
âś” Professional invoicing and payment tracking
âś” Built for US-based cleaning companies
Start your free trial here:
👉 Start Your 7-Day Free Trial Today
Ready to Build a Profitable Cleaning Business in Mississippi?
Mississippi rewards business owners who do things properly from day one. When you understand how to start a cleaning business in Mississippi, follow tax rules, and use the right tools, you position yourself for steady growth — not costly mistakes.
Take the smart first step and build your cleaning company the right way in 2026.