When are required software payments due for a City Publications franchise?
City_Publications Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
INITIAL INVESTMENT**
| Type of Expenditure | Amount | Method of Payment | When Due | To Whom Payment is to be Made |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Franchise Fee1 | $ 40,000 - | Cashier's Check, | When you sign your | Us |
| 250,000 | Ele |
Source: Item 7 — ESTIMATED INITIAL INVESTMENT (FDD pages 13–16)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to City Publications' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the payment for required software is due as incurred. The estimated cost for this software ranges from $500 to $1,500, and payment is arranged with third-party vendors. The specific software required is a Quickbooks license, as detailed further in Items 8 and 11 of the FDD.
This "as incurred" payment schedule means that franchisees will likely need to pay for the software around the time they begin setting up their business. This could be before the business officially opens, so franchisees should budget accordingly. It is important to note that the cost can vary based on the number of licensed users needed.
Unlike the franchise fee and startup marketing materials, which are paid directly to City Publications, the software costs are paid to third-party vendors. Franchisees should confirm with City Publications which vendors are approved and what payment methods are accepted. Understanding the payment terms and refund policies of these vendors is crucial, as the refundability is determined by the vendors themselves, not City Publications.