The assumptions behind these examples
The budgets below are original planning examples prepared October 30, 2026, not vendor quotes or statewide averages. They assume one owner, an existing phone, suitable computer or transport where specified, no employees, no leased premises and no owner living expenses. Confirm local rules, tax treatment and insurance before accepting work. If required costs exceed your allowance, raise the budget or narrow the service; do not skip them.
Three itemized $500 examples
| Expense | Proofreading | Virtual administration | Home organizing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online domestic LLC filing (if chosen) | $130 | $130 | $130 |
| Equipment/supplies | $30 | $40 | $70 |
| Initial insurance allowance — replace with quote | $100 | $120 | $150 |
| Outreach | $20 | $20 | $20 |
| Transport/communications | $20 | $20 | $40 |
| Unspent reserve | $200 | $170 | $90 |
| Total | $500 | $500 | $500 |
What the $500 does not buy
The insurance lines are placeholders, not premiums. A quote can consume the reserve or exceed it. These budgets exclude owner pay, taxes, ongoing renewals, paid registered-agent service, new transport/computers and any required specialty certification. DFI’s online domestic LLC formation fee is $130 as checked October 30, 2026; entity choice is a separate decision.
For proofreading, create a sample with your own text. For administration, define permitted systems and data access. For organizing, agree in writing who handles disposal and valuables. Avoid buying subscription software before a real client need justifies it.
Spend in this order
- Confirm the service can operate at your location and check relevant tax registration.
- Compare insurance quotes and decide the entity with appropriate advice.
- Keep the reserve intact until a job reveals a necessary expense.
- Use a simple written scope, invoice and expense log.
- Recalculate your remaining cash after each purchase.
Put this guide to work
Optional help from a real Wisconsin team
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Sources & review notes
Official references checked October 30, 2026. Program availability, fees and rules can change. Original budgets are planning examples, not quotes or earnings forecasts. This is general education, not individualized legal, tax, financial or safety advice.
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