Starting a new magazine is a fun and rewarding process. However, it is important for the publisher to consider all of the various costs before beginning this venture. Not having enough money to pay the printing bill can cause a promising magazine to fail before it gets off the ground.
It is a good idea for any publisher working in today's litigious society to think about forming some sort of corporation to protect personal assets. A lawyer is also an excellent idea. Look for a lawyer who specializes in writing and publishing cases and be sure to discuss whether the magazine should be run by a sole proprietor, a limited liability company, or a corporation before beginning the magazine.
Making the actual magazine can be time consuming, which is why most publishers have turned to desktop publishing to help speed up the process.
Printing a magazine can be a fairly inexpensive operation or very cost prohibitive. Simple photocopied zines are pretty budget friendly, while full color productions can really cost quite a bit.
Other costs a publisher should keep in mind are staffing and distribution expenses.