Franchise Disclosure Document Library
Your guide to understanding FDDs in the QSR industry. Learn what to look for, where to find official filings, and explore chain profiles.
What is a Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD)?
A Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) is a legal document that franchisors are required by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to provide to prospective franchisees. It contains 23 items of information about the franchise system, the franchisor, and the obligations of both parties.
Item 7
Initial investment estimate - the total cost range to open and operate a franchise through the initial phase.
Item 19
Financial performance representations - sales, revenue, profit, or loss information. Not all franchisors disclose this.
Item 20
Outlet and franchisee information - number of franchised and company-owned outlets, transfers, and closures.
Important: Before signing any franchise agreement, carefully review the FDD and consult with a franchise attorney and accountant. Learn about common FDD red flags that every buyer should know.
Where to Find Official FDD Filings
FDDs are filed with state regulators in franchise registration states. You can request official FDD documents from these sources:
Free State Resources
- Minnesota FDD Database (free) - Most comprehensive free state FDD library
- Washington State - Franchise offerings search
- California DFPI - Franchise investment filings
Registration States
These 14 states require franchisors to register and file FDDs with state regulators:
CA, HI, IL, IN, MD, MI, MN, ND, NY, RI, SD, VA, WA, WI
FDD Analysis and Guides
Jersey Mike's Franchise Cost: What It Takes to Join the Fastest-Growing Sub Chain
Jersey Mike's is adding 200+ locations annually with investment ranging from $182K-$1.4M. Here's the complete breakdown of costs, AUV, and why this sub chain is crushing competitors.
Subway Franchise Cost 2026: Complete Investment Breakdown
Opening a Subway franchise in 2026 costs between $199,135 and $536,745. This complete breakdown covers every dollar required, from the $15,000 franchise fee through ongoing costs, with honest analysis of unit economics and profit expectations.
Dunkin’ franchise cost: What its 2026 disclosure says by store format
Dunkin’s 2026 disclosure estimates different opening investments for freestanding, storefront and smaller-format restaurants. Here is how to read the ranges before pricing a site.
Jack in the Box Franchise Cost: Investment, Requirements, and the Del Taco Merger Impact
Jack in the Box franchise investment ranges from $1.2M-$2.8M. Here's what the Del Taco merger means for franchisees, plus unit economics and 24-hour operations analysis.
That Saudi Arabia Master Franchise Cost $80 Million. It's Worth $12 Million Today.
Western QSR giants are betting billions on emerging markets where rising middle classes and urbanization create massive growth runways.
KFC Franchise Cost and Requirements: The Complete 2026 Breakdown
Opening a KFC franchise requires $1.05M-$3.77M. Here's what you need to know about investment, Yum Brands requirements, international vs US opportunities, and unit economics.
QSR Chain Directory (71 chains)
Browse chain profiles for coverage, analysis, and franchise information. For official FDD data including Item 7, 19, and 20, obtain the current FDD directly from the franchisor or through state registration databases above.