When you’re starting a business there’s so much to know, it can be overwhelming.  Let us take some of the complexity out of the startup process by answering the top FAQs entrepreneurs have about small business licenses and permits.

Is a business license the same as a permit?

Although most businesses likely need various licenses and permits to operate legally, a business license and a permit are different. A business license from the city in which your company operates, confirms your business has complied with the city’s rules and regulations for legal operation.

Other business […]

When deciding between an LLC vs. partnership as your company’s business structure, you’ll have many considerations to address. There are ramifications legally, administratively, and financially when choosing a business entity type. Rushing to a decision can have consequences—BIG consequences—so it’s critical to review your options carefully and seek professional guidance such as from an attorney and accountant or tax advisor.

Comparing the LLC vs. Partnership Business Structures

An LLC (limited liability company) may be owned by just one person (“single-member LLC”) or by multiple owners (“multi-member LLC”). By the nature of its name, a […]

When you’re starting a small business that has more than one owner, you and your partner(s) may have concerns about your personal liability risks. If this is the case, it would be wise to compare LLP vs. LLC business structures.

Limited liability partnerships (LLP) and limited liability companies (LLC) combine some aspects of general partnerships and corporations. As sorts of hybrid entity types, they provide a level of liability peace of mind for their owners while preserving some of the simplicity of operating as a general partnership. Although they have some things in […]

For many, the “American Dream” is all about entrepreneurship. Business ownership is a way to declare personal independence and even though the COVID-19 pandemic has dampened the economy temporarily, it hasn’t quieted America’s entrepreneurial spirit. As a matter of fact, new businesses are starting despite the economic slowdown as evidenced by the recent number of EIN or Federal Tax ID applications for new businesses filed since mid-March (more than 500,000).

But startups are not where all the entrepreneurial action is. Current business owners have been busy, trying to keep their businesses running at […]

You have much to think about and many questions to answer when starting a business. One of the most fundamental considerations is what type of business structure is right for you. Often, brand new small businesses choose to operate as a sole proprietorship or general partnership. Would either be a good fit for you? You might be wondering, sole proprietorship vs. partnership—what’s the difference?

In this article, I’ll share information about the similarities and differences between the two business structures and some thoughts about other business entity types to consider. This information should […]

Are you considering starting a business as a solo owner, or will you co-own the business with your spouse? Then, you may be wondering if operating as a sole proprietorship or a limited liability company (LLC) will be the better choice.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of a sole proprietorship vs. LLC business structure? In this article, I’ll highlight the potential pros and cons of each to help you in your research efforts.

Keep in mind that there are legal, financial, and tax-related implications when choosing a business structure. Therefore, I encourage you […]

If you love the outdoors and have always wanted to start a business relating to your outdoor passion, now is a great time to take advantage of the country’s desire for outside activities. Here are some outdoor business ideas and trends you need to know to get you running on the right path to business success.

Etsy has given artists, crafters, and collectors a highly visible online marketplace for selling their own-made arts and crafts, vintage items, and crafting supplies. Are you a talented, hands-on individual with a vision of offering your creations to customers across the United States or even beyond? Then you have probably wondered how to start a small business on Etsy.

I can understand why!

The number of active buyers on Etsy has increased steadily over the years, going from 9.3 million in 2012 to over 46.3 million in 2019. The number of sellers who have […]