GOING TO PRESS

The test ads worked, and you get more orders in than you ever imagined. What do you do? Maybe you only had some material photocopied to see if it would be in demand, or you only prepared a few dozen cassettes for trial. Now you mass produce.

Don't be too hasty, however. Carefully calculate the amount of returns and the possible demand.

When you have a successful item, it is time to go to typesetting and printing. Local typesetters can advise you about the style and size of the type for your printed matter. Discuss it thoroughly, and be sure you know exactly the estimate of costs - it can be surprisinoly expensive.

Ready to go to press? Compare prices. Get at least three comparative quotes from printers. And be sure to take a good look at the work they do. Is the type clear, is it well-aligned on the paper, nothing crooked? Is everybody clear on what is expected? Then, roll 'em.

WHAT ARE THE LAWS?

Information selling businesses are encouraged by the United States Government, but there are rules and regulations concerning the proper conducting of the business enterprise.

The most significant aspect the authorities look for is possible fraud, so you have to be careful to advertise only what you are selling. Although most advertising copy brightens the benefits and good aspects of products, be sure it in no way misleads the buyer.

You can use testimonials in ad copy and sales literature. In fact, they are an excellent way to sell. But they must be backed up with pure fact and a person who can make the claim.

Since most states require sales tax, check with your local authorities on how to get a state tax number and collect and turn in the sales taxes.

If you have a genuine product to sell, use a direct, honest sales approach, and pay your taxes. YouÕll never have trouble with the law.

WHAT TO DO WITH ALL THIS MONEY?

Even if you've never done bookkeeping, you can keep accurate records for yourself - and the government. You can purchase a bookkeeping pad at a stationery store, or just get some accountants' 4-column paper.

List every expense related to the business. Carefully note the date, the exact amount, the type of purchase (such as stamps, photocopies), and the place of purchase. KEEP ALL RECEIPTS. Put them in order and clip them to the page.25F When you have a larger volume of trade, you can file receipts according to vendor.

List all income. You will be responsibl and could be audited. On a separate page or in a separate column, write down each check or money order you receive, and the source and date of the check.

Use a separate business checking account for all business transaations. This makes it clear and simple for you to analyze your profit and to keep the records separate from your personal accounts.

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