I've been wanting to order a couple Sumo Blanks from CUI Rod blanks. Only problem is they won't sell to me because I'm not a business. Is there anyone that would be kind enough to be the middle man and order these for me in the future?

~Jon

There is certainly something in angling that tends to produce a serenity of the mind

This probably won't help much John, but I just recently made an order from a supplier who encouraged me to get a business license, whether I have a business or not, so that they and other suppliers could give me wholesale pricing. It might be worth the fee, I am looking into it.
James

I have to agree with that here, but it sure make a mess come tax time. A lot depends on which state you live in too.

Getting a business license to "save" money as a hobbyist, is one of the WORST ideas I have heard in a long time - for a multitude of reasons. I am on the road in a hotel, trying to type on my laptop ... so I won't bother going into details. Maybe someone else will.

I have an LLC due to having several irons in the fire. Rod building, electrican, light wood working, you name it I can probably do it.
It can become a hassel at tax time but again, my accountant is a good one.
I'm not sure where you live but here (GA) it's really simple and the tax breaks Uncle Sam gives you are nearly endless. From % of your phone, power and water bill, to mortage, cell phones. The majority of this country is small business and the rules are set up to encourage it. But if you're not selling them and turning a small profit, it ain't worth it.

In MN I have to file and pay personal use tax on the cost of components if I build a "demo" rod for personal use, or a gift rod for anyone. Unless you are going to be dishonest, you need to check your state laws. I'm with Mr. Gamble - not really a very good idea - and I hope that "supplier" that advised James to get a license isn't listed on the left. Just my opinion.

If I get to the point where I can sell my rods, I will probably get a business license. However at this point I'm only building rods for gifts and personal use. Plus I don't want to have the hassle of dealing with the taxes that come along with having a business license. Anyways, thanks for the information.

~Jon

There is certainly something in angling that tends to produce a serenity of the mind

Back to your original question Jon, I believe Bingham Ent to the left is a CUI dealer.

Spencer,
Thank you for the info. I'll look into them.

~Jon

There is certainly something in angling that tends to produce a serenity of the mind

If you "sell" a rod, you are on the hook for Federal Excise Tax at a percentage of the selling price up to a maximum of $10. per rod. If you file FET and pay the tax, i"ll almost bet you better have a state sales tax license and pay the requisite taxes to your state. I'm sure the state and fed have some manner of feedback between them.

howdy, i am researching this business, and the same question is bugging me.is it worth it? i am retired so, i think i will try it any way. if it is a big mistake,well it certainly will not be my first.i just built my first rod one year ago, and i am not going to live the rest of my life, worrying about whether or not to enjoy these years.hope i am not rambling.good to talk to you folks again. the 57 year old newbie.