You do not need a Montana handyman license for your business unless you plan to hire employees. However, you must have an independent contractor license if you perform home repair or a related trade, occupation, or profession and you work as a sole proprietor rather than as an employee of a larger contracting company. The independent contractor process does not apply to electrical and plumbing work, which requires separate licenses.
If you eventually need a team to assist with your home repair projects, you will need to know how to get a handyman license in Montana at that time. This comprehensive guide provides the details you need to operate legally as a handyman in the state.
Disclaimer: This article is not legal advice. You should consult your local regulations and a qualified attorney for legal advice.
Do You Need a License to be a Handyman in Montana?
You only need a handyman license in Montana if your contracting business has employees. However, you must register as an independent contractor in the state.
Montana Handyman License Requirements
To register as an independent contractor in Montana, you must complete the application from the Department of Labor and Industry and pay a fee of $125. You also have to certify that you do not have employees to obtain an exemption from Montana’s workers’ compensation insurance requirements.
Insurance Requirements
To work as a registered handyman in Montana, you must either show proof of workers’ compensation insurance or obtain an independent contractor exemption certificate. Even without employees, however, you may want to purchase a general liability policy to protect your personal and business assets from legal action.
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Montana Handyman Licensing and Registration Fees
The fee to register as an independent contractor in Montana is $125.
Handyman Training and Certification Programs
You do not need to pursue training or certification to get a handyman license in Montana. However, if you continue your education and build new skill sets, you can potentially further your career opportunities.
Specific certifications or memberships, such as obtaining a home inspector certificate or joining The Association of Certified Handyman Professionals, can lend credibility to your business. It is also essential to understand fundamental business principles, which you can gain through an online training program.
Montana Handyman License Application
You can download a PDF of the independent contractor exemption certificate application from the Department of Labor and Industry. You must print, complete and mail the form to P.O. Box 8011
Helena, MT 59604.
The site also has a payment portal so you can submit your $125 online. The application requires you to provide basic information about your business, such as name, address, and legal entity, as well as a notarized statement indicating that you do not have employees.
Handyman License Montana FAQ
Get the facts behind the most commonly asked questions about handyman license requirements in Montana.
1. What Happens If I Do Not Have the Right License?
Montana charges $1,000 per violation if you perform handyman work without a valid independent contractor exemption certificate or if you misrepresent yourself as a registered independent contractor in the state. Keeping your registration updated can help you avoid these costly fines.
2. How Long Is My Montana Handyman License Valid?
You must renew your Montana handyman independent contractor certificate every two years. The state does not require continuing education credits, but you must pay a $125 renewal fee. You will receive an application for renewal in the mail about 90 days before your certificate experience.
*3. Who Can I Contact If I Have Questions?
You can reach the Employment Relations Division of the Montana Department of Labor and Industry at 406-444-6543.
With this guide, you have everything you need to get a Montana handyman license if you need one. Pursuing a career as an independent contractor can create impressive profit and solid job stability.
For More License and Career Guides
To find out how to become a Handyman in another state, start here.
For information on other trades in Montana, click on a link below to learn more about the licensing requirements:
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