How to Start a Senior Errand Business
Starting an errand service for seniors may be an easy business to get up and running. It takes very little to run an errand, especially if you already have a car. The errands can vary for each senior, depending on that person’s needs and wants. They can include mail and package pick-up or delivery, grocery shopping, making a bank deposit, dropping off books at the library or taking a items of clothing to the dry cleaners. Depending on the time you have available, you may even offer to take the client to a doctor’s appointment.
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Instructions
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Evaluate what you need in order to start a senior errand business. A dependable car is a must as it will get you from place to place in order to complete the errand. You need to have a cell phone to conduct calls in case there is a change in plan, or to ask the client a question. A computer will help you stay organized with client’s names, addresses, phone numbers, invoices and email addresses. Utilize a printer to print out necessary invoices for each client. A printer may also come in handy if you need to print out driving directions.
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Decide if you have the time to invest in starting a business. Although the business may start off slow, demand for help may increase. A senior may need a list of groceries or a required daily medication, and waiting around until the next day may not be an option for that particular person.
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Take a business or accounting class if you do not already have these skills. Be sure you know and understand how to handle money, various financial transactions and tax-related issues. Familiarize yourself with creating files, spreadsheets and emails. Staying on task and being organized with receipts and invoices is a necessary to start any type of business.
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Market the business. Create flyers and drop several off at local places where you may find senior citizens. These places may include doctor’s offices, hospitals and assisted living or retirement communities. Visit a health club that offers aerobics or low impact work out classes for seniors. Create a website, and order a set of business cards to help spread the word about the business.
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Get a business license from the Revenue Collection or Business License Division in your city. If the state you are starting the errand business has a state tax, you will need to register for an employer identification number at the state Department of Revenue or Treasury. A personal auto insurance policy will cover you if you drive your own vehicle. If you drive a vehicle titled in the company’s name, you need commercial vehicle coverage for complete coverage.
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Tips & Warnings
Store expense receipts for tax-related purposes in a file or folder.
Back up all documents to an external hard drive to prevent loss data.
Require upfront payment before completing an errand.
