Franchise Laws and the UFOC

Franchise laws cover the information franchisors are required to reveal to the franchisee. You will get a document called a UFOC, which is designed to protect you from inflated earning statements, pie-in-the-sky promises, and fast-talking franchise sales people. Franchise laws require that you get this document at the first face-to-face meeting or ten business days before the franchise agreement is signed or money is paid. Don't make the mistake of ignoring this document. Read it thoroughly and make sure you understand it. Starting your own franchise is a lot of work. Some of the key information in this document will help you when you develop your business plan and possibly apply for small business loans.