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Can I Afford to Hire?

Run the real numbers before you commit to your first hire, contractor, or agency retainer.

20 minutesIntermediate

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The problem

You're maxed out and the instinct is to hire help, but you've never actually modeled whether the revenue supports it or whether you'd just be trading cash flow for relief.

Who it's for

Owners considering their first hire, contractor, or retainer, who want to know the real number before they commit to it.

What you'll complete

A cash-flow model that accounts for ramp-up time, so you're not just checking whether you can afford month one.

Frequently asked questions

Does this cover contractors and agencies too, not just employees?

Yes, the model works for any recurring outside cost.

What if my revenue is inconsistent month to month?

The worksheet uses your trailing average and your worst recent month, not just your best one.