Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Are there any costs associated with SCORE Counseling?
   
   No, each one hour sessions is free of charge. You may come for as many sessions as you feel would be helpful to your business and each session is free.
   
   
2. What should I bring with me to my SCORE Counseling session?
   
   Depending upon the type of assistance you would like to receive, you should bring any and all relevant information relating to the aspect of your business that you would like SCORE to assist you with.
   
   For example, if you are starting a new business and would like SCORE to help you write a business plan to secure financing, bring estimates for your startup costs and monthly expenses and any business plan you may have started.
   
   If you are seeking assistance with advertising or marketing, then bring samples of advertising and marketing materials you have used in the past or are considering using in the future.
   
   
3. I'm thinking of buying or selling a business. Can SCORE help me establish a fair value for the business?
   
   Yes. Your SCORE Counselors will sit with you and review the financial information associated with the business to help you understand the value of the business assets as well as the business liabilities or risks.
   
   
4. Can SCORE refer me to a good business accountant (or lawyer or other business professional)?
   
   In order to remain impartial, SCORE typically does not make referrals to individual professionals.
   
   
5. Will SCORE Counselors work at my place of business as paid business consultants?
   
   No. SCORE Counselors are volunteers who donate their time and business expertise free of charge to the community. SCORE Counselors can advise you how to solve your business problems based upon standard business practices and their lifetime experiences. While many of our clients are served by SCORE through multiple counseling sessions, SCORE Counselors do not typically work for the client on a full-time or even part-time basis.
   
   
6. Does SCORE (or the SBA) make direct Loans?
   
   No, SCORE does not make any loans. The SBA may guarantee up to 75% of a Bank Loan but does not make any direct loans.