Startup Cost Calculator — One-Time & Monthly Costs
Estimate your total startup costs, monthly burn rate, and how much funding you need for a 6 or 12-month runway.
One-Time Startup Costs
Monthly Operating Costs
What startup costs do most founders underestimate?
Legal and compliance costs are the most commonly underestimated line item. LLC formation ($50–$500 depending on state), registered agent fees ($100–$300/yr), business licenses, and contracts all add up before you've made a dollar. Budget at least $500–$1,500 for initial legal setup if you're doing it yourself, more if you use an attorney. Many founders also forget to budget for the first 3 months of software subscriptions, which often average $300–$800/month for a minimal stack.
How much runway do you actually need?
A common rule: raise or save for 18 months of runway, not 12. The extra 6 months accounts for slower-than-expected revenue ramp, unexpected expenses, and the time it takes to raise a second round if needed. For bootstrapped founders, target 6 months of personal living expenses plus 12 months of business expenses before quitting your job.
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