Local temp staffing agency

Local warehouses, light manufacturers, offices, restaurants and event companies that need flexible or seasonal help.

You bill clients an hourly rate per worker, set above the worker's pay plus payroll taxes and insurance. The difference (your markup) covers costs and profit.

• Sales and local networking
• Handling payroll and paperwork
• Quick screening and scheduling
• Dealing calmly with last-minute changes

• You pay workers before clients pay you, so cash flow is the main risk; check payroll funding or factoring options
• Workers' compensation insurance is a major cost for temp staffing, and rates vary by job type and state
• Some states and cities license or register staffing agencies, so check before you place anyone
• Employer duties include payroll taxes, I-9 checks and wage rules; consider an accountant or payroll provider
• Client contracts should state rates, payment terms and who is responsible on site

Startup costs are typically around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on your office setup and payroll funding. You pay workers before clients pay you, so check payroll funding or factoring options as part of your planning.

Check whether your state or city licenses or registers staffing agencies before you place anyone. Also check employer duties such as payroll taxes, I-9 checks and wage rules, and workers' compensation insurance, which varies by job type and state.

Monthly revenue is typically around $10,000 to $50,000, depending on how many clients and hours you bill. Cash flow is the main risk, and workers' compensation insurance is a major cost, so check your numbers closely.