Jackson Hewitt Tax Service Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs
Jackson Hewitt Tax Service is one of the largest tax preparation franchises in the United States. The business traces its roots back to 1982 in Norfolk, Virginia, when founder John T. Hewitt acquired Mel Jackson’s Tax Service and rebranded it under the new name.
Today, the company operates from its headquarters in Jersey City, New Jersey. It launched its franchising program in 1986, right as the IRS was rolling out electronic filing, which helped fuel rapid growth across the country.
Over the years, Jackson Hewitt has built a strong reputation for providing affordable, accessible tax solutions. With thousands of locations nationwide, the brand has become a familiar resource for Americans seeking help during tax season.
The franchise provides a full suite of services, including state and federal tax preparation, audit support, refund advances, and amended returns.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Jackson Hewitt Tax Service franchise? It costs on average between $96,000 – $128,000 to start a Jackson Hewitt Tax Service franchised facility.
This includes expenses such as office setup, technology systems, supplies, and initial operating costs. The total investment can vary depending on factors such as the size of the office, the market location, and whether the franchisee decides to lease or purchase the property.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | $500 |
| Initial Franchise Fee | $50,000 |
| Travel/Living Expenses While Training | $1,200 to $1,500 |
| Lease Payments | $4,500 to $16,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements | $0 to $2,500 |
| Equipment & Signs | $30,000 to $35,000 |
| Insurance | $850 to $2,000 |
| Initial Advertising | $5,000 |
| Additional Funds – 3 ½ months | $3,000 to $12,000 |
| Miscellaneous | $1,000 to $3,000 |
| Total | $96,050 to $127,500 |
Jackson Hewitt Tax Service Franchise Disclosure Document
Frequently Asked Questions
What funding options are available for a Jackson Hewitt Tax Service franchise?
Most franchise buyers in Jackson Hewitt Tax Service’s investment range finance their unit through an SBA 7(a) loan, with some multi-unit operators using SBA 504 loans for real estate. Buyers with rollable retirement funds sometimes use a ROBS structure to reduce debt service. See SharpSheets’ financial model hub for funding guidance.
How long does it take to pay back a Jackson Hewitt Tax Service franchise investment?
Payback periods for franchises in Jackson Hewitt Tax Service’s category typically run 3-7 years, depending on investment level, location performance, and financing structure. Actual payback varies significantly by unit performance and debt service obligations.
Who owns Jackson Hewitt Tax Service?
The franchise is owned by Jackson Hewitt Inc., which is a privately held company currently under the ownership of Corsair Capital, a private equity firm.
SharpSheets Editorial Team | sharpsheets.io | Last Updated: June 2026
Disclaimer
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Research Jackson Hewitt Tax Service franchise data: For the full FDD cost breakdown, investment tables, and Item 19 disclosures, visit FranchisePayback.com → Jackson Hewitt Tax Service FDD Review.
