Mobile computer repair and tech help

Households, older adults who want help at home, remote workers, and small offices without an IT department.

Flat fee for common jobs or an hourly rate with a minimum call-out charge. Parts are billed at cost plus a markup. Small offices can become repeat clients.

• Troubleshooting hardware and software
• Comfortable with Windows, macOS and basic networking
• Patient, clear explanations for non-technical people

• General liability insurance, and ask about coverage for customer data and equipment you work on
• Check with your city or county about a local business license, and your state about sales tax on parts
• Customer privacy: get written permission before accessing files, and back up data before any repair
• Some states may have rules on repair or data-handling work, so check your state requirements

Startup costs are typically around $500 to $3,000, depending on your tools, diagnostic software, spare parts, insurance and vehicle needs. These are estimates, so build your kit around the jobs you plan to take.

Monthly revenue is typically around $800 to $4,500, depending on how many jobs you book, your rates, travel time and whether you also sell parts. Treat this as an estimate.

Check general liability insurance, including coverage for customer data and equipment. Check your city or county for a business license and your state for sales tax on parts. Get written permission before accessing files, and check for any state repair or data-handling rules.