What is the dependency for the deferral of initial fees for Focus Cfo franchisees in Maryland?

According to the 2025 Focus Cfo Franchise Disclosure Document, the deferral of initial fees for franchisees in Maryland is dependent on the franchisor's completion of pre-opening obligations. The Maryland Securities Commissioner has mandated a financial assurance due to Focus Cfo's financial condition. As a result, all initial fees and payments owed by Focus Cfo franchisees in Maryland are deferred.

This deferral remains in effect until Focus Cfo fulfills all of its pre-opening responsibilities as outlined in the franchise agreement. This means that a new Focus Cfo franchisee in Maryland will not be required to pay the initial franchise fee or any other initial payments upfront. Instead, these payments are postponed until Focus Cfo has met its obligations to help the franchisee get their business set up and ready to operate.

This arrangement provides a level of financial protection for franchisees in Maryland, ensuring that they are not paying fees before Focus Cfo has delivered on its initial promises of support and resources. It also reflects the oversight of the Maryland Securities Commissioner in safeguarding franchisee investments, given the franchisor's financial condition. Prospective franchisees should carefully review the franchise agreement to understand the specific pre-opening obligations that Focus Cfo must fulfill before the initial fees become due.