How to Start an at Home Tutoring Business

If you have specialized knowledge and the ability to share your expertise in a clear and concise way, then consider starting an at-home tutoring business. Traditionally, tutors help school age children master concepts from their daily curriculum. While the demand for this service continues, additional areas of focus include college entrance exam preparation, assistance with college courses and even preparation to start kindergarten. The low start-up costs make this business an attractive way to earn part-time income. However, so many parents want to give their kids a competitive edge that there is enough work for a viable full-time business.

Step 1

Identify your areas of expertise. Formal certification is not required to set up shop. However, clients will look for demonstrated experience or training. Teacher certification and specialized courses will provide credibility and make marketing a tutoring business easier.

Step 2

Choose a legal structure and name the business. A sole proprietorship or partnership if a second owner is involved is usually sufficient. If a name other than the owner's name will be used, then register a fictitious name with the state secretary.

Step 3

Obtain licenses and permits. Almost any business requires registration with local authorities, even if the business is operated from home. Check with the city and county governments where the business is located for requirements.

Step 4

Establish policies, procedures and pricing. Some decisions include how to handle no-shows, make up lessons and "emergency" questions. A written agreement with the parent regarding services will help alleviate misunderstandings. Check with other tutors to see if your pricing is competitive.

Step 5

Obtain learning tools as needed for clients. The library and internet are good sources for free materials. Invest in a good set of reference books for the main subject areas.

Step 6

Set up an office with a phone and computer access. Administrative tasks, such as marketing and billing, are easily conducted from home. Meetings with clients can be conducted at the student's home or in your own home. A quiet place free from interruptions is needed. Check deed restrictions and with local authorities to ensure that ongoing meetings in your own home are allowed. Note that libraries often prohibit the use of their facilities by paid tutors.

Step 7

Advertise the tutoring business in mediums and places your target market frequents. Place fliers on school bulletin boards, provide brochures to teachers and students and participate in parenting networks. Create a resume with references to provide to potential clients. Maintain an email list and consider sending a periodic newsletter with study tips and information related to areas of focus.

Step 8

Provide home-based tutoring services through on-line companies, such as Tutor.com. This avenue will supplement the income made through face-to-face clients and allow tutoring skills to be honed in the area of expertise. A computer with high-speed Internet access is needed. Generally, the tutor is considered an independent contractor.

Things Needed

• Licenses and permits
• Reference materials
• Phone
• Computer with Internet connection (if tutoring online)

References (4)

• Business.gov: 10 Steps to Starting a Business
• Entrepreneur: Tutor Your Way to Profits
• Entrepreneur: Business Idea Center: Home Tutor
• How to Start an at Home Tutoring Business

Resources (1)

• Tutor.com

Photo Credits(2)

• children teaching image by Julia Britvich from Fotolia.com
• How to Start an at Home Tutoring Business