I have a tax number and a state license, which didn't cost me anything. My state (WV) is very small business friendly, and supports them highly. The only real problem or should I say inconvenience I've found so far is the quarterly tax papers you have to fill out. Even though I sell few (if any) rods, I still have to fill out the tax papers. I restore / customize old rods and give them away to kids. The main reason I have the license and tax number is to get components and supplies at wholesale.

Bill in WV

Mo,

I would check with the local authorities on what applies in your area.

Mike (Southgate, MI)
If I don't want to, I don't have to and nobody can make me (except my wife) cuz I'm RETIRED!!

Thanks so much for all of your responses, I sincerely appreciate it! At least now I know what to inquire about and who to contact. I'm going to make some phonecalls and visits this week, beginning with local regulations and my tax advisor. If nothing else, this will be an education!

Many thanks again - you folks are the best! Mike

Intangible benefit of the craft can add to your education!.

Mike, I wish you well and hope that you obtain sound financial and legal advice. Rodbuilding has worked very well in my plans. It aids me quite well in meeting my long term goals. My financial planner has a definite plan in place and I am well on the way to a successful conclusion. I worked for a long time for a major corporation who took very good care of my retirement benefits. I have now been retired for 12 years and my long term financial plan, of which rodbuilding is the cornerstone, is a very simple one - "On the day of my demise all account ballances will be zero!" Getting rich would be the horror of my life - think of al the fun I have had and the wonderful people I deal with on a daily basis!

Gon Fishn

Thanks Bill, I completely understand and wish you the best also! If my customers are at least half as nice as the people on this board, I'll immensely enjoy it also.

...haven't had time to build up that 7'6" Castaway blank for those 'ol ugly lake trout yet, friends and family are keeping me busy with their rod requests. I have used some of the Castaway reel seats though and they worked out great. One of these days I'll find time to build a rod for myself!

Thanks again, much appreciated, Mike