What is the low and high estimated range for the initial franchise fee for a Carls Jr. franchise?
Carls_Jr Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
| Type of Expenditure | Low Amount | High Amount | Method of Payment (2) | When Due | To Whom Payment Is To Be Made |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fees to CJR: | |||||
| Initial Franchise Fee (3) | $25,000 | $25,000 | Lump sum or installments | See Item 5 | CJR |
| Opening Training | $32,000 | $72,000 | As incurred | See Item 5 | Vendors, CJR |
| Support Team Fee (3) | |||||
| Total Fees to CJR | $57,000 | $97,000 |
Source: Item 7 — ESTIMATED INITIAL INVESTMENT (FDD pages 35–37)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Carls Jr. Franchise Disclosure Document, the initial franchise fee is estimated to be $25,000. This fee is the same for both the low and high estimated initial investment scenarios. The initial franchise fee is paid in a lump sum or in installments, as detailed in Item 5 of the FDD, and is non-refundable.
It is important to note that while the initial franchise fee is fixed at $25,000, there are other fees payable to Carls Jr. that vary. For example, the opening training support team fee ranges from $32,000 to $72,000. These fees cover the salaries, administrative costs, travel, lodging, and meals for the All-Star Team trainers who provide on-site training before and after the restaurant opening.
Prospective franchisees should carefully review Item 5 of the FDD to understand the specific payment terms and conditions for the initial franchise fee and other fees payable to Carls Jr. Additionally, franchisees should factor in these costs when assessing the overall financial investment required to open a Carls Jr. franchise.