Piano World Home Page Forums Our Most Popular Forums Piano Teachers Forum Teaching- A Business Question

I had a post a while back about transitioning to teaching full time. I am looking to start teaching part-time out of my home, ideally within the next year or two. I wanted to at least get some sort of idea of liability insurance costs. I know it varies, but as of right now, I have no number, no idea. I appreiciate any input- rough estimates, what you pay, etc. I hope that's not too personal. I am just very lost here right now!

If you have a homeowner's policy in effect, you may be able to add a rider onto it. Call your insurance agent and ask for quotes. You need the answers from professionals who are in the business. If you have a CPA, there may be some information to pick up there. If there are legal questions you have an attorney specializing in business practices. State licensing fees. Etc.

MTNA (if you are a member) has a benefit of consultation for legal advice. (Go to the website and browse - www.MTNA.org) There are also publications written for practical business purposes and obtainable through MTNA.

There is a column in American Music Teacher (MTNA magazine) about business practices.

These contents are findable through a search in magazine archines in "Find Articles".

Research not word of mouth will be most helpful to you, I think. Don't forget seeking IRS info too.

I have a rider on my homeowner's policy for a home business, which includes liability, and it was very inexpensive to add (I think I pay $10/year additional!).

Another thing to look into are the laws in your town regarding home businesses. It is best to check these things out beforehand to avoid and problems with neighbors and the law.

Thank you, Betty and Morodiene! I live right down the road from the village hall so that will be a good place to start. Thanks again... this is such a big help.

The rider I have cost $16 extra per year.

I was originally thinking several hundred or worse

Not if you alreayd have a policy, it's very inexpensive. Which reminds me, I need to get a policy for my studio...been putting that one off for a while now