This is something that varies slightly from business to business and your Business Gateway advisor will be able to give you an idea of how much money you can realistically expect to take home, as will an accountant. Many people starting out in business choose to take nothing in the initial stages, and often have an evening or freelance job to take care of bills and living expenses till they get on their feet. You certainly shouldn't expect to be rolling in money straight away, and generally the less you can take the better until you know what profits to expect.