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Arthur Said:

Starting a catering business- insurance, kitchen and license question?

We Answered:

There are consultants who can help you get your business started. I know some in Southern Middle TN, but you might try google catering +consultant +Nashville and see what you get. You can also contact SCORE.

The health inspector can be your best friend or worst enemy. Become his/her friend. Ask for advice. Get the rules so you know exactly what will be expected of you.

You need to insure several things. One is liability if you end up poisoning your clients. One is if you set fire to the kitchen and burn down the church. One is if you or your employee slips and falls. One is if your vehicle has an accident getting to or from a job. Talk with your insurance agent and get a good handle on how much insurance you need and how much it will cost.

A lot of these things should be done at the same time -- find a kitchen, talk with health inspector, talk with insurance agent. The business license is the last thing you get. Remember you will need a city and county license for each place you work.

Betty Said:

Insurance Commission reduction/rebating?

We Answered:

I know for a fact on commercial excess commissions can be reduced by a small percentage when a competitive situation occurs. As for agencies paying premiums, that is not allowed in the state of Georgia. Each state has different laws.

I realize you didn't ask, but as for personal lines policies, no negotiable commissions are allowed and as stated above, agencies are never allowed to pay a policyholder's premiums (in Georgia).

Edit aimed at your response: A 21 year agent would be well aware of the laws in their state or they wouldn't be an agent. Licenses aren't just granted at a whim and continuing education hours are required annually in order to maintain that license. I'm stating facts, not opinions. Along with being an agent, I own an agency and manage several other agents. As stated above, commercial policies may have negotiated commissions, (by small percentages with the company I represent). Agents may NEVER pay a premium for a policyholder. That's illegal in Georgia.