Frequently Asked Questions

How do I learn more about the Colbert/Ball Franchise opportunities?
Review our website at www.colbertballtax.com or call 1-800-288-8675.

How much is the total investment needed to secure a Colbert/Ball Franchise?
Depending on the type of store you open, you will need approximately the major portion of your
investment breaks down as follows:

Initial Franchise Fee:	$15,000
Equipment and Signage:	$2,700 to $4,200
Travel:	$1,000 to $1,500
Additional Funds:	$5,000 to $10,000
Real Estate:	$1,000 to $5,000

Does Colbert/Ball offer financing?
Yes. We provide financing for Franchise development to qualified individuals based upon approval. You're also welcome to arrange your own financing.

What is the term of the franchise agreement?
The initial term is 10 years, after which the agreement may be renewed for additional terms. Renewal is subject to our approval and/or upon certain performance criteria being met. Renewals will be at the current franchise terms, conditions and renewal fees, if any.

Am I given any territory protection?
Yes. You may be awarded a protected territory under the terms of your franchise agreement. The Area of Protection (AOP) is a specific geographic area defined by zip codes, streets or other boundaries.

What form of continuing operational guidance will receive?
You will receive the Colbert/Ball Franchise Operations Manual to help you with day-to-day operations and technical assistance, as well as guidance and resources for your promotional, operations and other business needs.

Is it possible to secure a franchise agreement for more than one store?
Yes. You may place as many stores as you like in your territory. Additionally, we offer multi-territory operations as long as you meet our financial, operational and management qualifications.

Do I receive training from Colbert/Ball Tax Service?
Yes. Franchise operators must attend and successfully complete Business
Management and Processing Training as an overview of the Colbert/Ball tax return preparation business. The training includes but is not limited to; budgeting, new business start-up, retail operations, site selection, computer training, tax return processing, marketing and other various areas. The cost of the training is included in the initial franchise fee. Franchise operators pay the cost of transportation, lodging and some meals.

Do I receive support throughout the year?
Yes. In addition to our comprehensive training program at Colbert/Ball
Headquarters, during tax season, we offer full-line tax preparation and technical support 7 days a week.

What about advertising?
Colbert/Ball Headquarters will put together a comprehensive marketing and advertising campaign for each individual location.

Can I sell my Colbert/Ball franchise?
Yes. Like any other business, you can sell your franchise to a buyer approved by HQ, as long as we do not exercise our Right of First Refusal. There is a transfer fee for administrative, legal and training expenses that affect the transfer.

How much can I expect to earn?
Your earnings capability will depend on various factors - such as your location, the amount of time you spend in your store, your business and retention acumen, federal and state regulations affecting the industry, as well as market conditions. Naturally, as in any business venture, there is no guarantee of your success or earning capability. We do, however, give you the benefit of a well-organized system and a concept refined by our many years of experience.

I would like to study your franchise agreement. Will you send me one?
Our franchise agreement is a valued document, which we do not indiscriminately distribute. However, once you have a personal meeting with a member of our franchising staff, we will be happy to provide you with a copy of the franchise agreement and Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). Our FDD is the only document upon which you may rely in deciding whether to accept our offer.