Ever charged a “miscellaneous admin fee” and hoped nobody asked what it was?
Yeah… the FTC just gave you the look.
Welcome to the new era of business transparency where junk fees go to die, and your pricing strategy either earns loyal customers—or earns you a federal side-eye.
But fear not, brave entrepreneur. Whether you're running a family business, a creative side hustle turned full-time gig, or the kind of operation where “miscellaneous” usually means “I forgot to plan this,” we’ve got your back.
At Calculated Moves, we believe strategic planning and clean books aren’t just about staying legal. They’re about winning the trust game, growing profitably, and keeping Uncle Sam in his lane.
Let’s break down what this new FTC Junk Fees Rule really means—and how you can flip it into your next competitive advantage.
Now’s the time to look at your pricing like an auditor would—with a magnifying glass and zero chill.
Here’s what you do:
Think of this as Marie Kondo-ing your pricing: Does it spark trust? If not—toss it.
Repeat after us: “This isn’t just compliance. It’s customer service.”
You need a communication plan that makes your pricing:
We’re talking clear estimates, detailed service menus, and bold transparency on your website, invoices, and even signage. Yes, grandma should be able to understand what she’s paying for—and why.
When customers get it, they trust you. And when they trust you, they stay (and refer their friends who also hate hidden fees).
Here’s where most small businesses drop the ball like a clumsy juggler: implementation.
To stay ahead of the FTC curve, you need:
And when your team hears feedback from customers? Use that data. If people keep asking “what’s this charge?”—you’ve got a clarity problem. And we fix those.
Here’s what most people miss: This rule isn’t a threat. It’s an opportunity.
The businesses that win are the ones who say, “Sure, we’ll comply—and while we’re at it, we’ll look like total rockstars doing it.”
Trust is currency. Transparency is the new branding. And clear pricing? That’s the flex.
Let’s be honest: you didn’t start your business to become a pricing auditor. That’s what we’re here for.
At Calculated Moves, we help:
Because you’ve got better things to do than decipher federal rulebooks. Like building the dream business you actually love running.
Please follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Please make sure to check out our blog and our website link below. Subscribe to our YouTube channel and hit the bell to be notified when we post. Email me at donna@calculatedmoves.com.
Donna Bordeaux, CPA with Calculated Moves
Creativity and CPAs don’t generally go together. Most people think of CPAs as nerdy accountants who can’t talk with people. Well, it’s time to break that stereotype. Lively, friendly, and knowledgeable can be a part of your relationship with your CPA, as demonstrated by Donna and Chad Bordeaux. They have over 50 years of combined experience as entrepreneurial CPAs. They’ve owned businesses and helped business owners exceed their wildest dreams. They have been able to help businesses earn many times more profit than the average business in the same industry and are passionate about helping industries that help families build great memories.