Home Based Businesses - What do Apple Computer, Hershey Chocolate, Mary Kay Cosmetics, and the Ford Motor Company have in common? They all started out as home based businesses. Over half of all U.S. businesses are based out of an owner's home. Starting a home based business has many rewards and challenges. This guide provides resources that will help you learn more about working out of your house, starting a home-based business, and managing your business within the law.
* Small Business Start-Up Assessment
* Can You Live Where You Work ... And Work Where You Live?
* Home Based Business ... Is it For Me?
* Starting a Business in Your Home: Weighing the Pros and Cons
Starting a Home-Based Business
* Small and Home Based Business Virtual Resource Library
* How to Set Up a Home Based Business
* Business Plan for Home Based Businesses
* Zoning Laws for Home Based Businesses
* 10 Steps to Starting a Business
Buying a Work-at-Home Franchise - Home based franchises are becoming more common, but buyer beware! Some "work at home" franchise opportunities are schemes to get your money. Visit the Franchises and Business Opportunities Guide for more information about evaluating and buying into franchises and related work-at-home business opportunities.
Financing a Home-Based Business - Federal agencies do not provide grants for starting a home-based business. However, there are a number of low-interest loan programs that help individuals obtain startup financing. Visit the Loans and Grants Search Tool to get a full list of grant, loan, and venture capital programs for which you might qualify.
Marketing a Home-Based Business
* Home-Based Business - Market Your Product
Tax Information
* Small Business Self-Employed One-Stop Resource
* Business Use of Your Home
* Business Expenses and Tax Deductions
* Social Security Guide for the Self-Employed