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Dose freelancing requires license?

by mathewm, Window Shopper

  • Created: April 26, 2010, 8:11 am
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8 comments

Hi

I am just new in here and was wondering if freelancing requires license. We are running Online Dating Service

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This post was edited to remove a commercial link. Read our discussion policies for more Community best practices.

Tags: Discuss Popular Topics, Starting & Registering a Business
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alfredjr18 | Performer | 5/12/2010 - 3:09 am

It depends on what state you are in. In California, for example, they require a business license for ALL types of businesses.   Other states do not require a license to operate an online business '” just businesses like daycare, contractors, brick and mortar retail store, etc Call your county clerk's office and inquire as to their requirements for starting an online business
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NGK1974 | Window Shopper | 5/11/2010 - 9:34 am

I believe you need to provide more information and details.   Are you generating income from your website? If so, who are the payments made out to? You can run it as a sole proprietor, so no.. you do not need a business license. If you do intend to convert this from a hobby into a business, then I do suggest setting up a LLC.   If you are refering to a software license, (for example, you loaded a dating script to power your website) then you need to check with the developers terms and conditions.
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emarketed | Creator | 4/27/2010 - 12:33 pm

Freelancing for a website doesn't generally require a special license.If you own the website, you should register it as a small business and follow the process that applies in your state. You can even do this online now with the IRS now so check it out. Good luck!
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ChristineL | Former Moderator | 4/26/2010 - 8:17 am

Hi mathewm, Is your website a business? Read more about hobbies vs. businesses at IRS.gov. If so, you need to follow these steps to start and register your online business. You can use the Permit Me Tool to see which licenses and permits you need to apply for.

MarkAse | Contributor | 4/26/2010 - 8:52 am

Show Replied Text…
Hi mathewm, Is your website a business? Read more about hobbies vs. businesses at IRS.gov. If so, you need to follow these steps to start and register your online business. You can use the Permit Me Tool to see which licenses and permits you need to apply for.
An online dating service certainly sounds more like a regular business then it does a hobby. What makes you think you are only freelancing? With online dating are there any potential conflicts with customers? If so, I think I'd opt for the protection afforded by an LLC, especially with registration still being free (or close to it) in a few states.
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manyd | Window Shopper | 5/14/2010 - 2:46 am

You dont need a licence, but in some states/countries you must pay a tax for the earnings(if is the case).

aph80 | Window Shopper | 1/6/2011 - 3:55 am

I know it depends on location but, as anyone who has worked in the online realm will tell you, you're probably going to go through a bunch of websites, domains and setups before you find the right combination that clicks. I have probably 20-30 domains that I abondoned, are waiting to be worked on etc. I'd go blind on paperwork if I made each one it's own business. To go through the hassle of registerign every single domain as a unique business would be crazy. maybe wait until one of your sites actually makes money, then register it. Or, you can register your entire business and consider each website just 'divisons' or projects inside that business. Talk to your accountant and see if there are tax advantages in your situation too.
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NicoleD | Former Moderator | 1/6/2011 - 10:58 am

For more information on this topic, read Making Money Online - When Are You a Business?