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Saving for Your Massage Career

Download the Master Equipment and Supply List and Business Start-up Projector to get your money matters in order and plan your post-graduation finances.

Massage Business Start-up Resources

Saving for Your Massage Career

Whether you work as an employee or start your own practice, you will have some expenses related to obtaining your license and starting your career. Aim to save $600 to pay for testing and fees as you graduate. These fees include:

  1. MBLEx Testing Fee: The Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination is the national test you are required to take to obtain your license in most states. (Only a few states don’t require an exam, or use their own test instead). The MBLEx testing fee is currently $195, which is similar to testing fees in states that use their own exam.
  2. State Licensing Fee: Your state will require a fee to provide you with your license after you meet all eligibility requirements. In addition, your state may have other requirements and fees related to obtaining your license. For example, Oregon requires practitioners to pass a practical examination in addition to the MBLEx. Look up massage therapy state licensing requirements.
  3. Professional Membership and Liability Insurance: You want to make sure to protect yourself from professional liability claims with insurance. Most practitioners align with a national membership association like ABMP that provides liability insurance and other benefits useful to massage and bodyworkers. ABMP membership is $199, but only $75 for your first year if you have ABMP Exam Coach.

If you start a private practice, you will also want to save for your business start-up costs. Review the forms in the Picked Fresh section of this newsletter. It includes a list of potential costs related to starting a private practice. It also includes a monthly budgeting form to help you get your personal finances in order. A little planning will help you be ready to start practicing in no time.