REVISED - Start-Up Cost for Secretarial Services

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Author Contact Email: leva@startasecretarialbusiness.com Formatted to 65 Characters per Line Word Count: 393 words Category: Business/home business Description/summary: What you'll need to run your secretarial business and the estimated start-up cost.

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Start-Up Cost for Secretarial Services by Leva Duell Copyright © 2005

Here's what you'll need to start a secretarial business and what the estimated start-up cost is.

You can start your secretarial business with just a computer, printer, a few business cards, and a pack of paper. You can get additional equipment and supplies later.

Computer. Any computer will get you started. You don't need a high-end computer for word processing. However, if you want to provide graphic design or web design services, then you'll want to get the best computer you can afford. Cost: From $200 for a used computer to $800-$2500 for a new computer.

You can find used computers in your local newspaper and specialized local computer publications.

Software: Most computers come with a word processing program. I recommend using Microsoft Word as soon as you can afford it because that's what most of your clients will have. Cost: Check www.microsoft.com for current prices.

Printer: I recommend a laser printer but many secretarial services use an inexpensive inkjet printer. Cost: From $20 for a used inkjet printer to $600-$2000 for a laser printer. Check: www.hp.com/ and www.canon.com/

Desk. You can get a small computer desk or use a table. Cost: $30 and up. You have many choices for $100-$200.

Computer chair. Choose one that feels comfortable to you. The more expensive chairs are not necessarily the most comfortable ones. Check the office supply stores below. Cost: $30-$200.

Office supplies. Supplies you may need include paper to print your clients' work, printer cartridge, pens, paper clips, envelopes, a filing system, and a stapler. Cost: Check local office supply stores such as Office Depot (www.officedepot.com), OfficeMax (www.officemax.com), and Staples (www.staples.com). Or order their catalogs.

Telephone: I recommend getting a separate phone line from the beginning. Cost: Check with your local phone company.

Business cards: Printed business cards will look more professional than cards you print on your own printer one sheet at the time. Cost: $20-$200 for a set of 500 to 1000 business cards.

Business license. Cost: $20-$100 depending on the city and county.

If you already have a computer, a word processing program and a printer, your start-up cost is minimal. You can start your secretarial business with some basic office supplies and buy additional equipment or software later when a project requires it.

All the best success with your secretarial business!

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