Incorporate as an LLC or Corporation
If you’re a business owner, separating your business assets and personal assets can often be advantageous.
By forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) or corporation, you can protect your legal and financial interests.
Benefits:
- Safeguard personal assets
- Pay less in taxes
- Gain credibility for your business
Get Your Doing Business Name (DBA)
A DBA name is an official business name.
For instance, if Jane Smith wanted to start "Jane's Tax Services," she would need to file for a DBA. She could then operate under the business name instead of her own name, establishing a level of separation.
Filing a DBA also means a bank account can be created under the business name (requirements vary).
Benefits:
- Added professionalism and legitimacy
- Ability to open business accounts
- Accept payments as your business
- Separates ventures
Obtain an EIN Tax ID
An Employer Identification Number (EIN), or Federal Tax ID, is a unique number used to identify a business entity. The Internal Revenue Service assigns the number, allowing you to file business income tax returns.
Benefits:
- Needed to open a business account
- Allows your business to hire employees
- Helps build a business’s credit profile
Operating Agreement
An Operating Agreement lays the foundation of any LLC by establishing the rights and duties of an LLC’s members. No matter how you configure your business, it’s a valuable undertaking.
Benefits:
- Clearly defines your business
- Outlines roles and responsibilities
- Helps protect your personal assets