1995
200
$33,235
$15,000
$50,735
No
Colbert/Ball Tax Service is a leading tax preparation franchise in the United States, offering a proven business model with low startup costs and high earning potential. Founded in 1995 by Al Colbert and Ja Ja Ball, the company has grown to over 200 locations nationwide, providing electronic tax preparation services for individuals and small businesses. With a focus on customer satisfaction and a commitment to excellence, Colbert/Ball Tax Service is an ideal opportunity for entrepreneurs seeking a recession-resistant business in the financial services industry.
Investing in a Colbert/Ball Tax Service franchise offers several compelling advantages:
Low Startup Costs: With an initial investment ranging from $33,235 to $50,735, Colbert/Ball Tax Service provides an affordable entry into the tax preparation industry.
Proven Business Model: The franchise has a track record of success, with over 200 locations and a high success rate among franchisees.
Seasonal Business with Year-Round Income Potential: The tax preparation industry experiences peak demand during tax season, allowing franchisees to generate significant revenue in a short period.
Comprehensive Training and Support: Colbert/Ball Tax Service offers extensive training and ongoing support to ensure franchisee success.
Strong Brand Recognition: The franchise has built a reputable brand known for quality service and customer satisfaction.
Established Year: 1995
Franchise Units: Over 200 locations nationwide
Founders: Al Colbert and Ja Ja Ball
Franchising Since: 2000
Headquarters: 2616 South Loop West, Suite 110, Houston, TX 77054
Industry Category: Financial Services, Tax Preparation
Colbert/Ball Tax Service was founded by Al Colbert and Ja Ja Ball, who were college seniors at the time. They opened their first location in Houston, Texas, processing over 270 returns in the first year. By 2002, the company was processing more than 25,000 tax returns and began franchising. Today, Colbert/Ball has over 200 affiliates in 22 states, making it one of the fastest-growing tax preparation franchises in the country.
Before a franchise opens, Colbert/Ball Tax Service assists franchisees in several critical areas to ensure a strong start:
Site Selection: Guidance on choosing the ideal location to maximize visibility and client traffic.
Lease Negotiation: Expert advice on negotiating favorable lease terms for the franchise space.
Office Setup & Design: Recommendations for office layout, equipment, and branding to meet franchise standards.
Licensing & Compliance: Help with obtaining local permits and ensuring compliance with federal and state tax regulations.
Colbert/Ball Tax Service provides comprehensive training programs to prepare franchisees for operational success:
Tax Preparation Training: Detailed instruction on tax laws, electronic filing software, and client management.
Operational Training: Best practices for day-to-day business operations, managing employees, and handling peak season workload.
Marketing & Sales Training: Techniques for attracting clients, running promotions, and leveraging local advertising.
Technology Training: Hands-on guidance for the franchise’s proprietary tax preparation software.
Franchisees receive continuous support even after launching:
Operational Support: Guidance from experienced staff on workflow optimization, staff management, and customer service.
Technical Assistance: Access to helpdesk support for troubleshooting software or technology issues.
Marketing & Advertising: Assistance with local and seasonal marketing campaigns, including social media strategies, promotions, and brand materials.
Business Development: Support in exploring additional revenue streams, such as financial consulting or related services.
National & Local Marketing: Franchisees benefit from both national campaigns and local advertising guidance.
Promotional Materials: Templates, brochures, signage, and digital marketing assets are provided.
Lead Generation: Advice on acquiring clients during tax season to maximize revenue potential.
Webinars & Workshops: Regular sessions on tax law updates, software enhancements, and business growth strategies.
Annual Franchise Meetings: Opportunities to network with other franchisees, share best practices, and learn from top-performing locations.
The ideal franchisee is someone who:
Is motivated to own and operate their own business.
Enjoys being hands-on with day-to-day operations and driving business growth.
Seeks a recession-resistant business with predictable seasonal demand.
Has a strong focus on providing excellent service to clients, ensuring satisfaction and repeat business.
Values trust and professionalism, which are critical in handling sensitive tax information.
Understands the importance of building a local reputation in their community.
Has at least $20,000 in liquid capital to cover initial expenses and working capital needs.
Possesses a net worth sufficient to cover the total franchise investment, which ranges from $33,235 to $50,735.
Willing to invest in local marketing to attract and retain clients.
No prior tax preparation experience is required, thanks to the franchise’s comprehensive training program.
Experience in customer service, retail, or small business management is advantageous but not mandatory.
Ideally, has experience managing staff, budgets, or small teams.
Passionate about helping individuals and small businesses with their financial needs.
Detail-oriented and organized, capable of managing multiple client accounts during peak tax season.
Committed to continuous learning, adapting to tax law changes and software updates.
Interested in serving a community with demand for tax preparation services, including urban, suburban, or high-traffic areas.
Prefers locations with limited competition, maximizing opportunity for rapid client acquisition.
Open to operating seasonally busy operations with high intensity during tax season and year-round revenue potential through expanded services.
Veterans are encouraged to apply, as Colbert/Ball Tax Service offers certain discounts and support programs for veteran franchisees.
Ideal for individuals seeking a flexible business model that allows them to scale operations or hire additional staff.
| Category | Details / Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $15,000 |
| Total Investment Required | $33,235 – $50,735 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital | $20,000 |
| Net Worth Requirement | Sufficient to cover total investment (varies by location) |
| Royalty Fee | 15% of gross sales |
| Marketing / Advertising Budget | Varies by location; franchisees responsible for local marketing; guidance provided |
| Working Capital | Recommended to cover initial operating expenses |
| Break-Even Time | Typically within the first tax season, depending on location and performance |
| Revenue Streams | Tax preparation services, IRS e-filing, small business tax services, additional financial products |
| Financing Options | Available for qualified candidates |
| Discounts | 10% discount for veterans |
| Franchise Units | Over 200 nationwide |
| Expected ROI | Dependent on location, seasonal performance, and marketing efforts (typically high during tax season) |
