I hear ya StormyOne.. Owning any business is tough but the way they are nickel and diming small businesses is criminal and borders on Extortion..

Just think.. a few years ago we didn't have to pay any of these 'fees' and Mom and Pop Stores were everywhere.. Now, you're lucky to find one...

When the fee's are raised, the business have to pass along the cost to the costumer.. That or fail..

In California, you have to pay about $1,000 each year just for having a franchise license.. You still have to pay your franchise fee but the State is coming after you to make you triple pay.

Some of the things they pay are:
City Taxes (more then double what Large businesses pay)
State Taxes (Ditto)
Unemployment insurance
Insurance
Debit and Credit Card Processing Fees

Licensing fees- Business and what you are selling etc
Automobile licenses, taxes, etc if you have them
Health plans - Obummercare is a killer)
Rent
Heating-cooling, water, electric etc
Permits
Advertising

Lynda

: I'm an electrician. I have a business. I am the owner. After
: extrapolating my costs I need to charge $145.00 per hour to
: keep my business above water. I also charge road-trip
: mileage to get to your home or business. Before I take out
: my tools I have you sign a work order. That entitles me to
: take you to court, or to the police and charge you with
: 'theft of service', if you don't pay the bill.

: Yes, it's expensive to run a business. Those that charge only
: $45 have closed their doors and are looking for a job with
: a company that 'keeps it's head above water'. We can
: moralize all day and all night. The bottom line; the
: economy is going to get worse.