Booth rent vs commission for nail techs
Most nail salons pay techs one of two ways: the tech rents a station, or the tech keeps a percentage of each service. Here is how each works and how to choose.
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⚠️ For information only. This is not an official tax form or legal paper. Nail Signature and its AI can make mistakes: check every number with your accountant or a licensed tax professional before you file or sign anything. Nail Signature is not responsible for errors.
What is booth rent?
The tech pays the salon a fixed amount every week (or month) for a station and keeps the money from her own services. The salon does not take a percentage. Booth renters usually bring their own clients and supplies and set their own schedule.
What is commission?
The tech keeps a percentage of each service, often 40% to 60%, and the salon keeps the rest. The salon usually provides the clients, the station, the products and the schedule.
Which is better for the salon owner?
Booth rent is steady money no matter how busy the week is. Commission pays the salon more on busy weeks and less on slow ones. Try our free calculator with your own numbers.
Which is better for a new tech?
Commission is usually safer while you build a client list, because a slow week does not cost you rent. Booth rent pays more once you are busy and steady.
Does booth rent change taxes?
Usually. A booth renter is often an independent contractor who pays her own taxes, while a commission tech the salon controls is often an employee. It depends on the facts, not the name. Ask your accountant. This is general information, not tax or legal advice.
Can Nail Signature handle both in one salon?
Yes. Each tech can be on commission, hourly, salary or booth rent. Nail Signature adds up each tech’s earnings and tips, and reminds booth renters before rent is due.
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