Measure the current state
Break-even closes = spend ÷ contribution per job; leads = closes ÷ expected close rate, rounded up.
Interactive calculator
Break-even Leads Calculator
How many leads are required to produce enough contribution to cover acquisition spend?
The operating reality
How many leads are required to produce enough contribution to cover acquisition spend?
Break-even closes = spend ÷ contribution per job; leads = closes ÷ expected close rate, rounded up.
Contribution per job must be after direct job costs. Close rate is an operator assumption, not a forecast.
Formula
What the calculator does
Break-even closes = spend ÷ contribution per job; leads = closes ÷ expected close rate, rounded up.
Read the result
Use the number as a decision baseline
Contribution per job must be after direct job costs. Close rate is an operator assumption, not a forecast.
Change one input at a time to understand the lever. The calculator is educational and does not promise financial performance.
Input safety
Blank, zero, negative, and divide-by-zero handling
Zero contribution or zero close rate returns “Not calculable.” Blank and negative inputs resolve to zero.
Put it in context
Related operating guidance
Use the calculator with the principle and solution that explain the operating decision.
Simple dollar example
Make the economics visible.
$4,000 spend ÷ $1,000 contribution = 4 closes. At a 20% close rate, 4 ÷ 0.20 = 20 break-even leads.
Illustrative only. Use your own numbers and assumptions; this is not financial advice or a guaranteed forecast.
Use your numbers
How many leads do you need to cover acquisition cost?
Use one consistent period. Results use only your entries and are educational, not financial advice.
What changes
One clear rule. One accountable next action.
Keep the workflow accountable
Contribution per job must be after direct job costs. Close rate is an operator assumption, not a forecast.
Frequently asked questions
Practical buying questions
Is this result a benchmark or forecast?
No. It uses only the values entered and provides an educational baseline. It is not financial advice or a guarantee.
Which period should I use?
Use one consistent period across every input. A monthly spend cannot be compared with annual closes without converting one of them.
What happens with missing or invalid inputs?
Zero contribution or zero close rate returns “Not calculable.” Blank and negative inputs resolve to zero.
Related reading
Keep following the operating system.
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