Thumbtack Pro Requirements

If you want to offer your services on Thumbtack, it helps to understand what the platform expects from pros. Thumbtack connects customers with local service providers in hundreds of categories. To succeed, you need to meet the basic requirements, set up a strong profile, and manage your leads well.

Who can join Thumbtack

You can sign up as a Thumbtack pro if you meet a few simple requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have legal authorization to work in your country
• Follow local rules for licensing, insurance, and business registration

Thumbtack does not check every license, but customers often prefer or require pros with the right credentials.

How to get started

Step 1: Create your Thumbtack account

Creating an account is quick and free. You will:

• Sign up with your email or Google account
• Add your contact information
• Set your service area
• Verify your identity if Thumbtack asks
  

A complete account makes you easier to trust and helps Thumbtack match you with better leads.

Step 2: Build a strong profile

Your profile works like your digital storefront. Customers judge you based on what they see here, so make it count.

Your profile should:

• Clearly explain your services and any specialties
• Share your experience, certifications, or years in business
• Include high quality photos of your work
• Add a simple intro that says why customers should hire you
  

Profiles with complete details tend to get more views and more jobs.

Step 3: Choose your services

Thumbtack covers many categories, such as:

• Home repairs and cleaning
• Plumbing and electrical work
• Photography
• Tutoring
• Fitness and wellness
  

You can choose more than one category if you offer multiple services. Make sure your experience matches what you select so customers get the right impression.

Step 4: Set your service area

Tell Thumbtack where you work:

• Your travel radius
• Specific cities or ZIP codes
• Remote or virtual services if you offer them
  

The more accurate this is, the better your leads will be.

Optional steps that help you stand out

Complete a background check

Thumbtack offers a free background check. It is not required in every category, but passing it gives you a badge on your profile. Many customers prefer working with verified pros.

Understand Thumbtack’s lead and payment system

How you're paid through Thumbtack is important. Thumbtack uses a pay per lead model. You pay for each lead you receive, even if the job does not work out. You keep all the money customers pay you. You can set a weekly budget to control your costs.

Stay licensed and insured

Follow local rules for licenses, insurance, and business registration. Customers often look for pros who are licensed and insured, so keeping this updated helps you book more work.

What to expect as a Thumbtack pro

Managing leads and communication

Your success depends on how well you handle customer messages. To improve your results:

• Reply quickly to all new leads
• Ask questions to understand the project
• Give clear and fair pricing
• Stay polite and professional
  

Thumbtack tracks your response time, and faster replies can help you rank higher.

Reviews and reputation

Reviews play a major role on Thumbtack. To build a strong reputation:

• Ask happy customers to leave reviews
• Respond kindly to any feedback
• Deliver great work so new customers feel confident hiring you
  

More reviews often lead to more leads.

Taxes as a Thumbtack pro

You are considered self employed when you earn money on Thumbtack. You are responsible for:

• Tracking your income
• Reporting expenses
• Paying self employment taxes
  

If you earn more than 400 dollars in a year, you will likely need to file taxes as an independent contractor. Many pros use tax tools for Thumbtack like Everlance to track mileage, income, and expenses so tax season is easier.

Tips to grow your business

To increase your chances of landing more jobs:

• Keep your profile updated
• Respond to new messages fast
• Add fresh photos often
• Ask for reviews from satisfied customers
• Deliver consistent, quality service
  

Active pros with strong profiles usually get more visibility and more leads.