Interactive calculator
Start-up cost calculator
Add one-off setup costs, regular monthly costs and a chosen cash buffer.
Last reviewed 1 October 2026
Illustrative result
- Illustrative starting cash need
- $44,000
- Chosen operating buffer
- $24,000
Put expected receipts and their timing into a separate cash-flow forecast; this total only covers the costs entered.
How to use this tool
Illustrative starting cash need = one-off costs + monthly costs × buffer months.
A simple example
$20,000 setup plus three months at $8,000 a month suggests $44,000.
Assumptions and limits
Expected income, tax timing and seasonal costs are not included. Prepare a cash-flow forecast alongside this estimate.
General information only. Check your own records and speak with a qualified professional where the decision depends on accounting, tax, legal or financial advice.