Should You Quit Your Job to Start a Business?

The runway question

How many months can the household run without the salary? Include medical aid, bond and school fees — not just groceries. Six months is a minimum for a proven idea; twelve to twenty-four is safer for unproven revenue.

Side-hustle while employed until revenue covers at least 50–70% of current net income for three consecutive months, if your employment contract allows.

Benefits you lose

Employer retirement contributions, group life and disability cover, and paid leave vanish on resignation. Replace at least disability and life cover before you leave; continue RA or fund contributions from day one of self-employment.

UIF does not cover voluntary resignation — do not count on it.

Model the income drop

MyGenie's Starting a Business event stress-tests reduced household income during launch and shows whether startup capital and runway align with your fixed commitments.

This article is illustrative and educational. It is not financial, tax, or legal advice. Figures are examples only — model your own situation in MyGenie or speak to a licensed financial adviser.