Local Business Guides
Category-by-category checklists for finding and verifying local businesses and professionals.
Good local businesses are easy to verify. These guides show you which licenses, registrations and records exist in each category, where to look them up for free, and what to ask before you sign or pay. They are written for readers anywhere in the United States; rules vary by state, so each guide points you to the right local authority.
Home Services
How to choose a contractor, plumber, electrician or cleaner: licensing, insurance, estimates and permits.
Healthcare Providers
How to check a doctor, dentist or clinic: licenses, board certification, insurance networks and costs.
Professional Services
Vetting accountants, tax preparers, consultants and agencies: credentials, scope of work and contracts.
Restaurants & Dining
Reading reviews critically, finding health inspection results and planning for allergies and accessibility.
Auto Repair & Service
Choosing a repair shop: ASE certification, written estimates, recall checks and your warranty rights.
Education & Tutoring
Evaluating schools, tutors, childcare and training programs: accreditation, licensing and outcomes.
Legal Services
Finding and checking a lawyer: bar status, fee structures, engagement letters and free legal aid.
Financial Services
Checking advisers, brokers, insurers and banks with BrokerCheck, the SEC, the CFP Board and regulators.