MLM Income Reality
MLM Income Calculator — Reality Check
What this calculator does
This calculator shows the real financial result of an MLM. It subtracts startup costs, monthly fees, and months of low income from total earnings.
The math, with a worked example
Net income = (average monthly income × months active) − startup cost − (monthly cost × months active). Hourly rate = net income ÷ hours worked if you also enter hours. A $299 startup, $100 monthly cost, $75 monthly income, and 12 months active means $1,499 spent against $900 earned: a net loss of $599 before counting your time.
Why this matters
MLM math is a business plan run in reverse: $299 to start, $100 a month in required purchases, $75 a month in income — 12 months later you've paid $1,499 to earn $900. Run your real numbers before the 'opportunity' runs them for you; count the hours and it's usually below minimum wage.
Methodology and transparency
Net income = income × months − startup cost − monthly cost × months; divide by hours for the true hourly rate. The inputs to be most honest about are the required monthly purchases and autoship minimums, which recruiters rarely call costs. FTC business-guidance on MLMs documents that most participants earn little or lose money — your own 12-month projection is the test that matters. Everything runs in your browser; no data is sent or stored.
Last reviewed: 2026-08-08
Common questions
Do most people make money in MLMs?
No. Most MLM participants lose money or earn very little after expenses.
What counts as a cost?
Startup kits, monthly website fees, samples, inventory, conference tickets, and any other spending required to participate.
How is this different from a side hustle?
A real side hustle pays for real work. MLMs often pay mainly for recruiting, which is unsustainable for most.