How Much Should We Invest Into Our First Business?
It is a natural thing to be concerned about.
We hear so much about budgeting blunders, financial mishaps, and the sheer investments that some businesses need to get off the ground, it’s understandable why so many of us ask how much capital we should invest.
But, it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach. But there are things you can do to help you come to the right conclusion.
Estimating The One-time Startup Costs
Some things take a considerable amount of money out of us, but we only have to pay for them once. This means we’ve got to figure out what these things are, and budget accordingly.
Going through the initial stages of setting up the business means there will be certain costs needed to set up the company. When you are sifting through the necessary paperwork, you need to start putting money aside for setting up the business.
Going through the form SS-4 that allows you to apply for a Federal Employer Identification Number can give you a better insight into those one-time startup fees. The best way to understand what you need is to speak to someone that’s been there before you.
Figuring Out The Working Capital
Keeping the business ticking over, not just in terms of the marketing and the employees, but things like the rent, payroll, phone bills, and utilities are all crucial to keeping the business going.
The important thing is not to do this alone. You should turn to a business consultant or an accountant to give you proper guidance. Finding the right help is crucial, especially when you don’t necessarily know what you are doing.
So be sure to do your research, as this will be crucial further down the line.
The Hidden Fees
You’d be surprised as to how many hidden fees there are. From setting up a bank account, to the legal fees to draw up LLC paperwork, or even closing costs after getting a loan, these hidden fees can bankrupt many people.
If you’ve got everything in place, you should check and double-check everything. There are so many hidden fees, that while they might not be massive comedy certainly had overtime. It’s the little things that we have to budget for.
Creating That Cash Buffer
It isn’t just about the business fees, you have got to remember that you have your own bills to pay as well. As such, you need to plan ahead. You need to give yourself enough money to cover personal expenses, at least for the first six months.
During the first year is when you will experience most of the hardship. Having a cash buffer is crucial. Planning way in advance, and even before you think about registering the business, can help make life easier.
Investing in our first business is a major financial hurdle. And while there is no definitive amount to invest, if you know what you’re getting yourself in for, and having a few preventative measures in place, you will benefit.
Running a business is difficult, keeping a business financially sound is even more so.
