Home Improvement Contractor License Requirements by State [Guide]

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Looking to obtain a new license for your home improvements business? Here is a state-by-state listing of the general requirements to complete to become legal in your state.

Generally, contractors will need to fill out an application and submit or mail those documents with an application fee to state or county officials, depending on their location. Once approved, you'll have a lot more freedom to take on work.

Alabama

Home improvement contractors in Alabama need to show proof of a license based on the project they are undertaking.  Industrial and commercial jobs estimated to cost at least $50,000, or residential jobs estimated to cost $10,000 or more require a license.

Swimming Pools

With swimming pools, anything over an estimated $5,000 requires a license.

The Alabama Licensing Board for General contractors has reciprocity with Mississippi, Tennessee, Arkansas, and Louisiana.

Alaska

In Alaska, home improvement contractors need to successfully pass the Alaska Craftsman Home Program or show proof of having completed post-secondary Arctic engineering. Alaska requires a separate license for home and commercial contracting work. There’s also a lesser certification called the Residential Contractor Endorsement, which requires a 16-hour long cold climate course. 

Handyman contractors may perform work on projects with an aggregate contract of $10,000 or less for each project. This aggregate total is to include all labor, materials and other items for that site or project

Contractors working with dangerous paint, boilers, and explosives, among others, need to show a business Certificate of Fitness for the Trades.

Arizona

Similar to Alaska, Arizona requires that a home improvements contractor have two separate licenses to undertake commercial and residential projects. 

Any business which contracts or offers to contract to build, alter, repair, add to, subtract from, improve, move, wreck or demolish any building, highway, road, railroad, excavation or other structure, development or improvement, or to do any part of the work, must be a licensed contractor.

Also included in work requiring a license is the erection of scaffolding, connections to utility service lines, metering devices and sewer lines, mechanical or structural service to a structure or improvement, and any other work in connection with the project.

The term "home improvement contractors" includes subcontractors, floor covering contractors, hardscape contractors, and consultants representing themselves as having the ability to supervise or manage a construction project for the benefit of the property owner.

Generally, if labor and materials exceed $1,000 OR a permit is required (regardless of the price of labor and materials), then a license is required. Please read the Arizona Revised Statutes on "Persons not required to be licensed; penalties; applicability" ARS §32-1121.

Contractors must be properly licensed before submitting bids.

Work-related to electrical, plumbing, air conditioning systems, boilers, swimming pools, spas, and water wells must be subcontracted to an appropriately licensed contractor. 

Alternatively, for projects that cost more than $750, professionals must have a license. 

Arkansas

In Arkansas, if the job costs less than $2,000, then a license is not needed. However, for projects equalling or exceeding that amount, it is legally mandated that the contractor be licensed. If the general license is not in possession of one, then the responsibility falls on the subcontractor to get the necessary qualifications. See the generally applicable statutes governing residential contracting licensing here. 

California

For the most part, for projects that cost more than $500 in California, the contractor must have a license - in most cases as a residential remodeling contractor. In these cases, you will be required to take a licensing examination. To be safe, it is best to confer with the legal authorities to determine the procedure that you should adopt. 

Colorado

Unlike most states, Colorado’s contractors’ licenses are administered at the local level, rather than the state level. Contractors must obtain a business license, one which is different from a contractor’s license. 

Connecticut

In Connecticut, there's a home improvement contractor registration requirement if: 

  • You perform work on residential property (single or multi-family dwellings of six units or less), condominiums, or common interest communities; and

  • You charge more than $1,000 for home improvement contracts during any 12 consecutive months.

You do not need to be registered as a Home Improvement Contractor if:

  • You work only as a subcontractor for a registered Home Improvement Contractor;
  • You only build new houses;
  • You only do commercial work; or
  • You hold a trade license issued by the state, and the work you are doing is within the scope of that license. Requirements for New Home Construction Registrations

A home improvement contractor who does new homes must obtain a New Home Construction Contractor registration from the Department of Consumer Protection. This is a separate registration from a Home Improvement Contractor. If you get both registrations, you will not have to pay the registration fee for the New Home Construction Contractor registration, but you will have to pay into the New Home Construction Guaranty Fund.

For more information, download the Connecticut Home Improvement and New Home Construction Handbook for Contractors.

Delaware

Delaware law defines contractors as “every person engaged in the business of Furnishing labor or both labor and materials in connection with all or any part of construction, alteration, repairing, dismantling or demolition of buildings, structures, driveways, roads, bridges, viaducts, sewers, water and gas mains and every other type of structure as an improvement, alteration or development of real property.”

Delaware’s a small state and has several license requirements for those who live outside of the state. Out-of-state contractors also need to post a surety bond.

Florida 

In Florida, contractors may choose between registered and certified licenses to work in compliance with State Law. Registered professionals are eligible to work on a local scale while certified contractors can work on projects anywhere in the state. Applicants must pass the Florida Contractor License exam or obtain a Certificate of Competency from their local government licensing authority.

Contractors’ license applicants must show proof of four years’ work experience demonstrating experience in the field corresponding to the license applied for. Translation: if you're applying for a license as a painting contractor, you need to show four years of experience as a painter or painting supervisor. The same goes for fences, landscaping contractors, and so on.

For certified contractors, this work experience should include a minimum of 1 year of supervisory experience. Some licenses require further evidence of specific experience. These include the Florida General Contractor License and the Residential Contractor License.

Georgia

Unlike other states, contractors need to comply with a series of highly specific requirements to work legally in Georgia. A license is required for work on any single-family or two-family homes or townhomes that cost more than $2,500. In addition, professionals must pass a business and law assessment to be granted certification. Click here for full details. 

Hawaii

The Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Professional and Vocational Licensing Division, like most states, requires that contractors have a license for projects which exceed a cost threshold. In Hawaii, this threshold is $1,000. Similarly, contractors need licenses for specific home remodeling jobs that require permits.

Hawaii has different requirements for contractor entities vs. sole owners and responsible managing employees. Click here for details. 

Idaho

54-5203, Idaho Code defines a contractor as: "Any person who in any capacity undertakes, offers to undertake, purports to have the capacity to undertake, or submits a bid to, or does himself or by or through others, perform construction." or "A construction manager who performs construction management services."

All contractors who do work exceeding a $2,000 value must register with the State of Idaho, with a few exceptions listed here. 

Illinois

Illinois contractor licensing is generally handled at the local level. As long as you do not work in plumbing and roofing, you do not need to have a state-level license to work in Illinois

Indiana

Like Illinois, Indiana handles contractors’ licenses at the local level. Only plumbers need to be licensed by the state of Indiana. Please confer with the Department of Business and Neighborhood Services for more information. 

Iowa

Iowa law requires all individual contractors and businesses performing "Construction" work within Iowa to register with the Iowa Division of Labor and renew annually if earning at least $2,000.00 a year from construction. More information can be found by reviewing the Iowa Code and Administrative Rules.

Kansas

Kansas is another state that issues contractors' licenses at the local level, rather than at the state level. Water well drillers along with asbestos abatement contractors are the only professionals who must obtain a state license. Please check with local authorities to determine what certification is needed based on your trade. 

Kentucky

The only home improvement professionals in Kentucky that are licensed at the state level are electrical, HVAC, and plumbing contractors. That said, there is a mutual reciprocity license agreement between Kentucky, Ohio, Louisiana, Virginia, and West Virginia. 

Louisiana 

Similar to other states, Louisiana has license requirements geared specifically for building contractors. For projects that exceed $7,500, professionals need a regular license. If costs surpass $75,000, contractors need a residential license.

Applicants must also submit financial statements demonstrating a net worth of at least $10,000, take a course in business law, and pass an exam. 

Maine

Maine does not license home/residential contractors at the state level. The only professionals within the home improvement industry licensed at the state level in Maine are plumbers, asbestos abatement professionals, and electrical contractors. 

Maryland

In Maryland, contractors license applicants must: 

  • Provide proof of at least two years of experience in home improvement work, construction, and/or related education.
  • provide proof of financial solvency based on the scope and size of their business in relation to total assets, liabilities, a full credit report, and net worth. Any applicant who does not meet the financial solvency guidelines may purchase a surety bond or obtain an indemnitor.
  • Provide proof of current $50,000 liability insurance.

 

Massachusetts

Unlike most other States mentioned, Massachusetts demands that general contractors obtain a Construction Supervisor License via the Office of Public Safety and Inspections. However, additional stipulations are required for plumbing, electrical work, and other trades. 

Michigan

In Michigan, all home improvement professionals need to hold a license. These contractors include those who work on residential buildings and structures, electrical projects, and maintenance and alteration. The Licensing and Regulatory Affairs of Michigan is the entity that is in charge of issuing licenses. You can find a step-by-step tutorial on obtaining a contractors’ license in Michigan here

Minnesota

Individuals and businesses that contract directly with homeowners to build or improve residential real estate (a building constructed for habitation by one to four families and detached garages) by offering work in more than one skill area are required to have a residential building contractor or remodeler license. 

License applicants must designate one individual to serve as a "qualifying person" (QP) regardless of whether the licensee is an individual proprietorship, partnership, LLC, or corporation. 

The QP must take the required exam and fulfill the continuing education requirements for the licensee. Read more about who needs a license.

Any contractors operating in Minnesota that declare more than $15,000 are required to have a Contractors and Remodelers’ License. These contractors include remodelers, roofers, and rebuilders. There are two separate boards that handle licensing: The Board of Electricity is the entity that licenses electricians while The Plumbing Board of Minnesota is in charge of licensing plumbers in Minnesota. 

Mississippi 

Mississippi as a State is one of the most demanding when it comes to licenses for home improvement. Irrespective of the type of project within the home remodeling industry that you are undertaking, all require a license except for small projects. 

You can find a detailed video on how to obtain a Mississippi contractor's license here. 

Missouri

In Missouri, licensing is not done at the state level. Instead, it is up to a given municipality to determine the license that should be given to a professional to operate on a given project. What’s more, if a contractor wishes to work in multiple municipalities, they should get a license for each region in which they’d like to work. 

Montana

In Montana, all construction professionals must sign up at the state level via the Department of Labor and Industry. If you have employees, you must apply for a construction contractors’ license. If not, you must get an independent contractors’ license. 

Nebraska

The Nebraska Contractor Registration Act requires contractors and subcontractors doing business in Nebraska to register with the Nebraska Department of Labor. 

All contractors with one or more employees must provide a current Workers’ Compensation Certificate of Insurance (ACORD 25) with the Department of Labor listed as the certificate holder. Each contractor is responsible for making sure an updated insurance certificate is on file with the Department of Labor. Any contractor whose records indicate their coverage has expired will be removed from the list of registered contractors until an updated certificate is received from the contractor’s insurance agency.

Nevada

In Nevada, it is imperative that you have a license to operate. The only exception applies to some jobs that cost less than $1,000.

The license costs $300 to obtain. You can pay with a money order. You can download the full application here. 

New Hampshire

In New Hampshire, contractors' licenses are handled at the local level.  Only electrical, plumbing, asbestos, and lead abatement contractors can be granted state-level licenses. Within the electrical home improvement arena, any project work related to circuits designed for heat, light, and power requires that you have contractor licensing. Any type of electrical work does not need a license for you to operate. 

New Jersey

New Jersey requires a home repair contractor to have a license to execute financed home repair contracts on the goods or services provided to New Jersey consumers for home repair work.

A home repair contractor who deals strictly in cash installment payments over 90 days or less or accepts credit card payments does not need to obtain this license.

NOTE: All home repair contractors, regardless of payment method, must also contact NJ Division of Consumer Affairs concerning required registration. You can obtain information by calling 973-504-6370 or at  www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/hic/.   

A home repair salesperson license is required if a salesperson secures a financed home repair contract from a New Jersey homeowner on behalf of a licensed home repair contractor.  A home repair salesperson may be affiliated with only one licensed home repair contractor at one time.

The governing statute is the New Jersey Home Repair Financing Act, N.J.S.A.17:16C‑62 et. seq. 

New Mexico

Based on state law, New Mexico requires any contractor to secure a license from the board before they start operating. Download the complete rules, laws, and regulations governing New Mexico contractors licensing.

New York

New York handles home improvement contractor licensing at the local/municipal level, not at the state level. Check with your local government for licensing information specific to your area.

Here is a home improvement license application checklist specific to New York City. 

North Carolina

A general contractor’s license needs to be presented in North Carolina by the individual contractor for projects which cost more than $30,000. To obtain a license you must complete the Application for License to Practice General Contracting in the State of North Carolina which is available on the Board’s website at www.nclbgc.org

Similarly, professionals who perform electricity, plumbing, HVAC, and fire sprinkling services also need a license.

Download a complete guide to the rules and regulations concerning contracting licenses in the State of North Carolina.

North Dakota

North Dakota requires contractors to be bonded and insured to do business within the state and to hold a license for any project worth more than $4,000.

Applicants can choose between a Class A, B, C, or D license, with the Class D license allowing them to do jobs worth up to $100,000 each. 

Ohio

Ohio issues several licenses at the state level, including refrigeration, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical. For any other projects, licenses are at the local level. 

Oklahoma

Oklahoma issues residential contractor licenses at the local level, not the state level. Check with your city or county officials about the specific requirements in your area. 

Oregon

In the state of Oregon, everyone who works in the construction industry needs a license, with just a few exceptions. Contractors must carry surety bonds, liability insurance, and workers' compensation insurance. Application forms are available here. 

Pennsylvania 

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania currently has no licensure or certification requirements for most construction contractors (or their employees). However, most home improvement contractors must register with the Attorney General's Office. 

Rhode Island

Rhode Island contractors must register with the Contractors Registration and Licensing Board for any project related to home construction, commercial construction, remodeling, home repair, and alteration. There’s a separate requirement for commercial roofing contractors. 

South Carolina 

The State of South Carolina licenses both mechanical and general contractors to undertake projects within the commercial, industrial, and residential space. That said, those contractors who work exclusively in residential projects can go through the Residential Builders Commission where they will be required to sit for an exam. 

South Dakota

South Dakota does not issue contractors’ licenses at the state level. All general contractors licenses are handled at the local level. Check with your city and county officials about contractors’ license requirements in your area. 

Tennessee

Tennessee has thresholds for HIC bidding projects that indicate the freedom that contractors have without needing to have a license. A contractor’s license is mandatory for all projects that exceed $25,000 in costs. What’s more, any projects that include plumbing, electrical work, and HVAC, need to be done by a licensed professional irrespective of the project cost. 

Texas

Special contractors, namely HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and pump installation specialists need a license in Texas. In such cases, the state issues the license.

Utah

Utah requires all All professional contractors to have a license. There are two tiers: Specialty contractors and general contractors. 

Specialty contractors license applicants must have completed a pre-license course from Associated Builders and Contractors Inc (ABC), Utah Home Builders Association (UHBA), or Associated General Contractors of Utah (AGC). Specialty contractors require a 25-hour pre-licensure course. All general contractors (E100, R100, B100), plumbing and electrical contractors require a 30-hour pre-licensure course (unless you took the pre-licensure course BEFORE October 1, 2019, in which case you do not need the extra 5 hours).

General contractors must meet all the above requirements, PLUS meet the state’s experience requirement:

  • Two (2) years of experience in the construction industry. This experience must be at least 4,000 hours (or 2 years) of paid work experience at any time in your life in the construction industry. You must self-certify that you have this experience. 

The other ways to satisfy the experience requirement (pick one):

  • Qualifier on current or previous Utah Contractor License for at least 2 years;
  • Construction Management Degree (2 or 4 year Degree);
  • Licensed Utah Professional Engineer;
  • Passed NASCLA Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors, or;
  • One (1) year of licensed experience working in another State, District or Territory of the U.S. in the similar scope of practice sought in Utah if the license is currently active and in good standing.

Vermont

In Vermont, general contractors do not need to be licensed by the state. However, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC experts need to bear credentials sealed by the state. 

Virginia

The Virginia Board for Contractors regulates individual tradesmen who engage in the trades of electrical; plumbing; heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC); gas fitting; water well construction; elevator mechanics; backflow prevention; and building energy analysis. (Although the term "certified" is used, state certification of these trades is mandatory, not optional.) Individual tradesmen may also be subject to local ordinances, laws, or other requirements imposed by other state agencies, courts, or certain localities. Questions about local ordinances, etc. should be directed to the community in which the individuals plan to engage in their trade.

Washington

Washington State mandates that both special and general pros need to register with the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries.

Washington DC

In Washington DC, both general contractors, as well as construction managers, need to get a license through the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs.

West Virginia

West Virginia only requires that the contractor have a license if the project they’re working on costs more than $2,500. 

Wisconsin

According to the Wisconsin Builder Association, Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services issues contractor license. To pull permits to do work on one- or two-family homes, Wisconsin requires you have the dwelling contractor certification business certificate, and that at least one person from the company has a dwelling contractor certification. 

If you are not doing work on one- or two-family homes, or you are doing work that does not require you to pull building permits, there’s no state-level licensing requirement. But you must still meet any local/municipal level requirements. 

Wyoming

The only professionals within the home industry in Wyoming that require a state-issued license are electricians. For additional information, find out what licensing and certifications are required for your specific profession at the local level as well as the respective license application fee. 

In each case, you can find additional resources regarding home improvement licenses at the page linked. Incomplete applications are typically held in suspense or rejected. Landscaping businesses may have different requirements than general home improvement firms.

 

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Mike Farrell

With over 30 years of experience in the financial industry, Mike Farrell currently leads operations at Time Investment Company.

Shawn Peterson

Director of Business Development

Shawn Peterson is the Director of Business Development at Time Investment, where he leverages nearly two decades of experience in the finance sector , specifically within the home improvement industry. Since entering the field in 2004, Shawn has honed his skills in closing deals and delivering impactful sales presentations.  His journey has been enriched by learning from industry leaders, which has instilled in him the confidence and expertise necessary for success.  At Time Investment, he is eager to share his knowledge and enhance the company’s commitment to providing common-sense lending and exceptional service through a dedicated team.

Shawn is passionate about building relationships and believes that service is paramount!

He emphasizes that true value lies not just in financial transactions but in fostering connections that help contractors achieve their goals.

Outside of work, Shawn enjoys spending quality time with his wife, Tiffanie, engaging in activities such as traveling, DIY home improvement projects, cooking and relaxing with a good movie.

Lorraine Weber

Inside Sales Representative

Lorraine Weber is an Inside Sales Representative at Time Investment. In her current role, Lorraine focuses on expanding the dealer network and providing support to new dealers as they join the Time family. Before Joining Time Investment, she spent an impressive 34 years at Castle Credit, where she held various roles within the dealer network, shaping her extensive career in sales and customer relations.  Lorraine was drawn to Time Investment not only for its family orientated culture but also for the opportunity to continue working within the same industry.  She finds great satisfaction in introducing former Dealers to Time Investment and helping them access financing solutions that foster their business growth.

Outside of her professional lifer, Lorraine is a dedicated family person, married and a mother of one child.  She cherishes spending quality time with her family and enjoys traveling together.  Additionally, Lorraine is passionate about giving back to her community through volunteering at her local food pantry and church.

Among the core values of Time Investment Company, Lorraine resonates most with Integrity.  She believes that being true to herself and maintaining honesty in her interactions with colleagues and clients is essential for building trust and fostering meaningful relationships in her work environment.

Rick Mumford

Regional Sales Manager

Rick is an entrepreneurial sales management strategist with a 30+ year record of achievement in the highly competitive Fenestration marketplace. Specializing in dealer network sales, Rick is adept at driving growth of company revenues, improving sales team performance, and building strong relationships with customer base. His Core Competencies include strategic sales planning, market expansion, relationship management, and high impact sales presentations. Though Rick was referred to Time Investment, he was extremely interested in our values and the enormous opportunity for growth. Rick accepted his new position as   Regional Sales Manager in September 2023.

Outside of work, Rick enjoys spending time with his family and engaging in activities such as hunting fishing, golfing, and church.   He believes Time Investment offers him the opportunity to achieve a balance between his family and professional goals. Time Investment’s focus on exceptional servicing of our customers, a core value, resonates with Rick. This value, above others, drives our customers to want to continue to use Time investment’s platform and expand their opportunities with us, and is a key component to Rick’s decision to join our team.

 

Tonya Schmirler

Senior Manager Loan Servicing

Tonya is the Senior Manager of Loan Servicing at Time Investment, having started in 2023.  With over 20 years of experience in the finance industry, she held various positions in collections, customer service, and operations leadership roles.  At Time Investment, she finds the sense of community, influence, and emphasis on quality and customer satisfaction to be the most rewarding aspects of her role.  Tonya personally interacts with clients and customers by prioritizing their needs and ensuring a high level of service. 

In her personal life, Tonya enjoys spending time with her family, riding motorcycles with her husband enjoying the Wisconsin scenic back roads, fishing, and reading.  She resonates the most with the Time Investment value of excellence, believing it to be the heart of everything we do. Tonya strives to achieve excellence in all relationships, going above and beyond, delivering quality, and continuously improving.  

Ben Hafeman

Concierge I

Ben Hafeman began his career at Time Investment Company (TIC) as a seasonal worker in the summer of 2020.  Over the years, he has developed robust skills in the customer care and collections department, gaining a solid understanding of loan processing and underwriting.  In spring 2024, he graduated from the University of Wisconsin- Whitewater with a Bachelor of Business Administration.

Currently Ben works full-time as a Concierge Representative.  He finds the growth opportunities and supportive staff at TIC particularly rewarding, especially how colleagues are always willing to assist with any issues or concerns.  His daily responsibilities involve interaction with Dealers, entering new applications, and addressing inquiries to ensure efficient and effective service.

Outside of work, Ben enjoys hiking, spending quality time with family and friends, and collecting Legos.  He has a passion for exploring new areas and aspires to travel the world, embracing new experiences and cultures.

The Value that resonates most with Ben is Excellence and Integrity. He believes that striving for excellence means exceeding Dealers’ expectations and ensuring that all interactions are seamless and efficient. This commitment to high standards is crucial for fostering positive relationships.

 Integrity is equally important to Ben; he asserts that being honest and straightforward with Dealers is essential.  This transparency helps build trust and solidifies relationships. By prioritizing these values, Ben aims to create a collaborative and trustworthy environment that benefits both himself and the Dealers he works with.  

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As Director of Business Development, John Hafeman heads our sales team at Time Investment Company. He’s been with TIC for 29 years.

Prior to joining TIC in 1993, John was an outside sales representative for a Wisconsin-based office supply company. He started with TIC as a collection and customer service representative. But his hard work, dedication, and integrity earned him numerous promotions, and he was soon heading up the entire customer service and collection department.

At the same time, John was putting his sales experience to work, working with Tom on the dealer development and dealer relations side of the business.

Today, John oversees all aspects of business development at Time Inc., working tirelessly to build and cement the company’s relationships with contractors, dealers, home improvement firms, water treatment companies, and anyone else whose customers need an affordable financing solution.

Of all the Time Investment Company Core Values, the ones that resonate with John the most are Fun and Generosity, as these two have been keys to getting him through the many trials and challenges along the way.

“Being generous with our time, talent, treasures, and having fun along the way is what it’s all about to me!” says John.

Outside of the office, John enjoys fishing, hunting, and the great outdoors of Northern Wisconsin. He is an avid golfer and member of the West Bend Country Club.

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Wendy DuBois

Concierge II

Wendy is a veteran with the Time Investment Company. She started in 1999 at our collections desk and was soon promoted to dealer services. Later in her tenure at TIC, she did underwriting and management. Twenty-three years later she is working in dealer concierge, providing outstanding customer service to our dealer clients.

Wendy chose to join TIC while she was working in a daycare facility. A friend working here told her to apply… and the rest is history!

Her hobbies include watching her children play sports, spending time with her family, and traveling.

The TIC Core Values she cherishes the most is Fun. “Don’t you want to come to work and love your job and the place you work for?” she asks. With the fun aspect, you are not just clocking in, doing your job, and going home. You’re making new friends, loving your job, and all while having fun!”

Monica Sabala

Concierge III

Monica Sabala has a passion for helping others. Which is what attracts her to work in customer care and collections. She now works in the Concierge office at TIC, an inside sales position, setting industry standards in the customer experience field.

She joined the Time Investment Company because it was “a great fit that offered flexibility, remote work, and the opportunity for growth.”

Outside of the office, she treasures family time and sharing the love of the Lord.

TIC’s core value that Monica relates to most is Excellence.

“Living a life of excellence is the standard. It’s seen in everything — attitude, preparation, and execution. To see it in my workplace is very motivating!”

Joe Peplinski

Concierge III Lead

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Joe worked his way through college as Junior Golf Coordinator for the Mary Hafeman Golf Experience in Mequon, Wisconsin. After graduating in 2019, Joe joined TIC as an inside sales representative. He has since been promoted to Concierge III Lead, where he strives to provide best-in-class service to our valued dealer clients.

Joe saw the opportunity at TIC as a great experience to start at a finance company and build his resume. He holds a degree in Business Management and Marketing from Edgewood College.

His hobbies include playing sports and traveling. Of all the Core Values at TIC, Joe likes to focus on Service and Excellence. “The company is all about relationship building and being a team player,” he says. “We are all working together to achieve our goals. I believe this sets us apart from most finance companies. We have that personal touch instead of hearing an automated voice. You will be able to talk to a real person and go over anything in regard to an account.”

Zachary Hafeman

Concierge Manager

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Zach started working at Time Investment Company ever since he graduated from high school 12 years ago. He started out at the company working seasonally while playing Junior A hockey, and then later doing customer verification calls, collections, and cash management duties to learn the business. He continued to work with us while attending college.

Once he graduated, he joined the company full-time, working in the Dealer Services Department. He then took on TIC’s first inside sales position as New Client Growth Strategist and worked in that capacity for three years before being promoted to Concierge Manager in 2022.

Zach enjoys playing golf, and hockey, watching TV shows and movies, spending time at the lake, and watching Packer games.

Integrity is the TIC Core Value that he holds as the most crucial. “I find it the most important to always be upfront, truthful and trustworthy with not only business customers but also with everyone I interact with on a daily basis,” he says.

Mark Willis

Regional Sales

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With more than 30 years of financial services experience, Mark Willis is a proven, successful leader with a long, winning track record of results in finance, business, and home improvement.

Mark joined TIC in 2021 after being referred by Mike Farrell. A driven self-starter, Mark came to Time Investment Company having achieved years of success as a self-employed consulting and sales professional.

He served as a product sales and solutions manager at Toshiba and was Vice President of Store Operations and Product Management at Axcess Financial. Prior to that, Mark had more than a decade of successful management at Walmart, where he last worked as Senior Director of Category Management, Strategy, and Product Development.

His hobbies include playing golf and making home improvements. He has a bachelor’s in business/corporate communications from Abilene Christian University and an MBA in Management and Operations from Babson F.W. Olin Graduate School of Business.

The cove value that particularly strikes a chord with Mark is Service. “It’s all about taking care of our dealers,” Mark says.

David Bocian

Regional Sales

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David brings more than 30 years of professional experience in both the home improvement and consumer finance industries, making him an ideal match for the Time Investment Company and our customers. Over the years, David has worked with national lenders on both sides as a dealer and as a sales representative.

Prior to joining TIC in January 2022, David was an accomplished operation and finance manager with solid skills in consumer finance, sales, and marketing. He came to us from his position as business development manager at Veracity Strategic Business Solutions in Tampa, Florida. Before that, David was the Director of Sales and Business Development Manager at Castle Credit in Chicago. He also worked for 11 years as the VP of Operations at FJB Associates in Berlin, Connecticut.

David chose to come work for us here at Time Investment Company when he got a surprise call from a recruiter asking if he would be interested in joining the company. “I was so impressed after the first Zoom call with Mike, Tom, and John. Their knowledge of the industry from the dealer’s perspective fascinated me.”

His favorite hobbies include family time with his wife of 25 years and 3 sons. He also enjoys golfing and watching Steeler Football games.

The TIC Core Value that is most important to David is Integrity. He holds a BA in Political Science and Government from Assumption University.

Nicole Ishay

Administrative Recovery Manager

“The culture here at TIC is something that I am not used to, and I knew I would fit right in,” says Nicole. “Learning new things every day and making an impact in the organization’s growth is what I am most passionate about.”

Outside of work, Nicole loves walking, shopping, and traveling.

The TIC Core Value she holds dearest is Fun. “It helps people to have a more positive mindset, enjoy higher levels of well-being, and better mental health.”

“Fun at work is a key element of employee happiness.” She quips when asked what values here at TIC are most close to her heart, continuing, “I chose Fun as one of the TIC Core values because it helps people to have a more positive mindset, enjoy higher levels of well-being and better mental health.”

Toni Steldt

Loan File Manager

Toni comes to TIC with a strong background in customer service in a variety of contexts – from waitressing to manufacturing.

She chose to join us at Time Investment Company because of our focus on employees and providing them room for growth.

Outside of the office, Toni’s hobbies include camping with her family, having bonfires in the backyard, and motorcycling.

Toni relates most to the TIC Core Value of Fun. “I believe laughter is the best medicine,” she says.

Jamie Phillips

Controller

Jamie spent over 15 years in various roles at Bank of America, culminating in a four-year tenure as Director, Global Principal Investments Finance. In that role, he served as the chief financial officer for BAML Capital Access Funds, where he supported the firm’s growth from $175 million to $1.2 billion in commitments.

He then spent several years as Accounting Director at GMR Marketing before joining the Time Investment team.

Jamie joined TIC because he likes the indirect lending/consumer finance industry, and he likes the culture at our company.

Jamie holds a Master of Business Administration Degree from the University of Chicago.

His hobbies include cooking, hurling, and watching his daughter play sports.

The TIC Core Value of Excellence holds a special place in Jamie’s heart.: “I am always trying to improve and make things better,” he says.

Mary Kelly

Senior Manager, Customer Care

Mary came to TIC after serving as a Customer Service Team Leader at Alta Resources in Neenah, Wisconsin, where she worked for Johnson & Johnson, Kellogg’s, and Purina Pet Care. Before that, was also the Sample Department Manager for the County Materials Corporation, where she experienced driving standard operating procedures as a production foreman. For six years, Mary also ran her own business as a personal chef.

Mary joined TIC because she was ready and excited to move forward with her career in a new industry.

Mary’s hobbies include crocheting, watching movies, going to farmer’s markets, and walking.

Our core value that resonates with Mary the most is Fun! “When the workday gets long, a bit of laughter makes the time go by,” she says.

Michael Blue

Senior Manager, Collections

With 25+ years of call center experience and two decades in collections, Michael has a strong track record of leading teams to increase recoveries on multiple portfolios such as out-of-statute debt, credit cards, medical, auto, and private and government student loans.

Michael comes to TIC after more than 20 years of working in a corporate environment. Prior to joining TIC in 2019, Michael served as the Extended Business Office Manager at State Collection Service. Prior to that, he spent nearly 14 years at the Van Ru Credit Corporation as a collector, supervisor, collection manager, and assistant general manager.

“I love all the people that I work with and the family atmosphere,” he says of the Time Investment Company. “TIC has become my second family and the company focuses on its core values. This company is full of smiles and is a fun place to work!” he says.

Michael enjoys spending his free time with his family and outdoors camping, riding ATVs, and fishing. He feels that he can never get enough sun.

The TIC Core values that he best relates to is Excellence: “I am committed to setting high expectations for myself and my staff to maximize recoveries and minimize delinquency,” says Michael.

Russell Brown

Director of Platform Applications

Russell has more than 30 years of financial services industry experience working with companies of all sizes. He has a long track record of success in operations, process improvement, and consumer protection regulatory compliance. He has skills in change management and transformation initiatives that support customer loan origination and servicing systems, electronic banking, and debit/credit payment solutions.

He also has an extensive background directing highly skilled financial management teams in supporting and achieving company objectives in a variety of contexts.

Russell holds the Certified Compliance Professional credential from the American Bankers Association’s Institute of Certified Bankers.

Outside of work, Russell enjoys traveling, training for the next Marathon, and spin cycling. He also enjoys the warm weather and is a self-described “sucker for a scenic view.”

The TIC Core Value he relates to the most is integrity. “I’ve always been taught to do the right thing and take ownership of your decisions and actions,” says Russell. The best way to engage with people is to treat everyone the way you want to be treated.”

Sara Hafeman

Director of Marketing and Sales Support

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Sara came to the Time Investment Company from the hospitality industry, where she spent 15 years honing her sales and customer service expertise in a variety of positions, culminating in her role as Director of Catering at Marriott Hotels. She joined TIC in 2011, just as the company was set to expand, and needed someone with a deep background in sales and customer service like hers.

That background soon led her into new roles with TIC, including sales support, marketing, and management.

Sara enjoys outdoor activities like hiking, golfing, relaxing by the lake and loves traveling with family.

Of the TIC Core Values, Sara finds the most resonance with Service. “My whole career has been built around serving my customers and building their trust so they know, no matter what, I will take care of them,” she says.

Jayne Peplinski

Director of Human Resources

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The chief talent officer of Time Investment Company, Jayne started with the Time Investment Company in 2004 as a data entry specialist. She was soon promoted to accounts receivable manager, and then to her current position in 2012.

After a number of years working in the public school system, Jayne came to TIC to be a part of a family-owned business and to make a difference, not just for her family and herself, but also for others.

Outside of the office, Jayne’s favorite activities include hiking, listening to music, reading, and spending time with her family.

Her favorite of the TIC Core Values is Fun. She strives daily to contribute to making the Time Investment Company a joyous place to work, where employees feel valued and appreciated. “My team helps to create a fun atmosphere whether it is volunteering opportunities, fundraising competitions, luncheons, or just handing out candy on Fridays,” says Jayne. “We spend a lot of time working so why not have fun while we are here!?”

Todd Figard

Director of Servicing/Chief Compliance Officer

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Todd has more than 20 years of leadership and management experience in the credit and collections field. He has diverse experiences managing a variety of portfolios and debt types, including auto loans, personal loans, medical debt, utilities, credit card collections, and government debt. He has a proven track record of maximizing recoveries of delinquent and charged-off debts.

Todd joined the Time Investment Company after meeting with the owners and senior leadership and noticing and seeing that our vision and values aligned with his own. He enjoys working with others and working for a company that values people and relationships above everything else. Prior to joining TIC in 2018, Todd worked in a variety of collections and operations roles for Van Ru Credit Corporation, culminating in more than a nine-year stint as general manager.

Outside of work, Todd enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and swimming. He also enjoys stargazing, traveling, and putting his Nikon P900 camera to good use. A lifelong learner, Todd enjoys listening to audiobooks and podcasts on business, success, spirituality, theology, health, and anything else that will help to learn and to grow as a person, and better serve his family, community, business associates, and customers.

Todd’s favorite of the TIC Core Values is Integrity. “Integrity and Trust are the foundation that other values rest upon,” says Todd. “True integrity isn’t always popular or convenient, but it is the path I have chosen.”

Paul Worachek

Chief Credit Officer

With three decades of experience in the lending and credit industry, Paul is one of our newer leaders on the team. He joined TIC in May of 2022. “TIC has a terrific reputation in our industry and is a family-owned, values-based company,” says Paul, and this reputation is part of what led him to join TIC as the Chief Credit Officer. “This is the atmosphere and culture I enjoy, and our customers appreciate.”

Paul’s career has focused on credit underwriting, leadership, business development, risk management, and customer success. He enjoys creating a positive experience for customers and team members.

Prior to joining the Time Investment Company, Paul was Vice President of Lending at Marine Credit Union and Regional Vice President of Heights Finance Corporation. He holds a BBA in finance from the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater.

Paul enjoys spending time with his family and friends. He especially enjoys the family cottage trips, annual family apple picking, trips to the Caribbean, and getting to as many Packers, Badgers, and Brewers games as possible. When he isn’t working, you will find Paul outside enjoying a round of golf, going for a walk, or just working in the yard.

Paul’s favorite of the TIC Core Values is Fun:

“Having fun at work is critical in making the other four Values thrive,” says Paul. “We work hard each day striving for excellence, and it is important to enjoy the journey.’

Jonathan Gelhaus

Chief Information Officer

As Time Investment Company’s chief technologist, Jon has more than two decades of information technology experience in the consumer finance and commercial insurance industries. His career focus is on leading effective digital transformation and leveraging technology to create more efficient business workflows. Over the years, Jon has held roles in data security, infrastructure, data warehousing and business intelligence, application development, compliance, and information security.

Prior to joining TIC in 2021, Jon held C-level roles in a private equity-owned consumer finance company where he was a key member of a management team driving double-digit year-over-year growth which ultimately led to a successful sale of that business and a profitable exit for the PE firm.

In 2021 he joined TIC’s leadership with a focus on personal relationships that drive success, not only for our company but also for our dealers and contractors.

Jon’s hobbies include touring the country on his motorcycle, traveling, baking, and camping with his wife of 23 years and 3 young adult children. He lives in West Bend.

His favorite TIC Core Value is Generosity.

“It is not enough to only be successful,” says Jon. “You also need to use that success to make your community a better place to be.” Jon is committed to fostering and nurturing personal relationships that drive success not just for TIC, but also for our dealers and contractors.

Mike Farrell

Chief Operating Officer

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Mike Farrell came to Time Investment Company in 2017, for the opportunity to create unique company growth in the indirect lending industry. He has more than 20 years of experience in banking and commercial lending.

Prior to joining TIC, Mike was the managing director of BlueTrail Finance from 2015 to 2017. Mike spent eight years as President, COO, and CFO of Axiom Bank in Orlando, Florida. Before that, he had a 19-year career at Fifth Third Bank, including experience in business development and finance roles. Mike holds a B.S.B.A. from the University of Dayton and an M.B.A. degree from Xavier University.

His hobbies include cycling, golfing, and hanging out at the beach.

Mike’s favorite of the TIC Core Values is Service. “I have always believed in building valuable relationships.”

John Hafeman

Vice-President, Director of Business Development

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As Director of Business Development, John Hafeman heads our sales team at Time Investment Company. He’s been with TIC for 29 years.

Prior to joining TIC in 1993, John was an outside sales representative for a Wisconsin-based office supply company. He started with TIC as a collection and customer service representative. But his hard work, dedication, and integrity earned him numerous promotions, and he was soon heading up the entire customer service and collection department.

At the same time, John was putting his sales experience to work, working with Tom on the dealer development and dealer relations side of the business.

Today, John oversees all aspects of business development at Time Inc., working tirelessly to build and cement the company’s relationships with contractors, dealers, home improvement firms, water treatment companies, and anyone else whose customers need an affordable financing solution.

Of all the Time Investment Company Core Values, the ones that resonate with John the most are Fun and Generosity, as these two have been keys to getting him through the many trials and challenges along the way.

“Being generous with our time, talent, treasures, and having fun along the way is what it’s all about to me!” says John.

Outside of the office, John enjoys fishing, hunting, and the great outdoors of Northern Wisconsin. He is an avid golfer and member of the West Bend Country Club.

Tom Hafeman

President

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Tom Hafeman began his career working alongside his brother Mike, doing collections for another finance company. He then took a year off to caddie for his sister Mary, a pro golfer in the LPGA. (Mary won the Women’s Eastern Amateur Tournament in 1981).

Shortly after Tom returned to a more traditional career path, the Time Investment Company was born.

“My brother Mike dreamed of starting his own consumer finance company, and I was just along for a short ride,” says Tom. Here I am, 39 years later, the President of the company, and living the American Dream!”

As a veteran of nearly 40 years with the company, Tom credits his success at TIC to the solid foundation in collections and sales that he and his brother developed over the years.

Outside of work, Tom has a passion for big game hunting and bowhunting and is active in wildlife management. He also enjoys traveling and spending time with his family.

As President of Time Investment Company, Tom played a big role in defining the company’s five Core Values: Service, Excellence, Integrity, Fun, and Generosity, and strives to live them every day.

Mike Hafeman

Chief Executive Officer

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As one of the original co-founders of the Time Investment Company in 1981, Michael Hafeman has a lifelong passion for entrepreneurship. After cutting his teeth working in collections for another consumer finance company in the late 70s, Michael realized that contractors and home improvement companies had a huge unmet need for a first-rate consumer finance company to work alongside with to help make their services affordable for middle-class customers.

“I felt there was a great need for a quality financing partner,” Michael explains. “We would create success by building long-term beneficial relationships not just with contractors, but also with doctors, dentists, and anyone who provides services people need but can’t always afford to pay cash for up front.”

An expert both in consumer finance and life safety industries, Michael was the CEO of the Dallas-based MasterGuard Fire Safety Solutions, an international fire alarm wholesaler, from 1994 to 2000.

His hobbies include spending time with his family, traveling, golfing, and exercising.

Michael relates most strongly to the TIC core value of “Fun:” There’s a cherished poster hanging in the company conference room with a quote from Walt Disney saying, “it’s kind of fun to do the impossible.”

Michael loves what he does, and his energetic and infectious attitude helps make the rest of us love it, too.