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New On-Line Business

by Jimma, Window Shopper

  • Created: November 2, 2010, 4:16 pm
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8 comments

Can someone please tell me the answer:

I have started a web-site

What I want to do is be a Consultant to help thrift stores in the Design and Visual of their stores. Also I want to include Staging-Window Display-and possibly conducting Estate Sales.

Can I do this without a business license or permit.

The web-site is under my name only-so its not really a business-so to speak.

Can I simply make up a contract for every job-and then contact the I.R.S. of any checks I am paid for my work?

Please help-if you have a simple plan for me.

Thanks!

Tags: Discuss Popular Topics, Starting & Registering a Business
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startuploans | Performer | 11/18/2010 - 11:08 am

I would get incorporated in Florida or your place of residence.   I am a web designer, and trust me when I tell you, it will be better to get inc. now, and reap the rewards.
Professional Web Site: http://www.startuploans.org

greenliving | Performer | 11/16/2010 - 5:42 pm

Trust me, its better to register your business and make sure your business name (for example your website name) is secured by registering it. A simple LLC would be the best i think.
Professional Web Site: http://diygreenenergy.net/

JimD | Former Moderator | 11/8/2010 - 5:49 am

@X-Hardgainer, Take a look at the incorporation section of Business.gov. You can compare the differences from a LLC and partnership. JimD

denverseo | Creator | 11/3/2010 - 7:51 pm

I own a consulting business. We are registered as an LLC in both Tucson & Denver, CO. We provide our clients with individual contracts and hired a C.P.A to run most of our reporting. We hired an accountant in the past and have even tried to do it ourselves and found out that a good CPA is worth their weight in Gold while allowing you to do what you do best.
Professional Web Site: http://www.seanhakes.com

X-Hardgainer | Window Shopper | 11/3/2010 - 5:23 pm

If you had an online business with two owners, what would be the best way to set it up?  Would a partnership be better than an LLC?  I mean in regards to all possibilties such as taxes, protection, benefits.  I do not personally sell anything on the site it is just information and affiliate recommendations.    Thanks,
Professional Web Site: http://www.hardgainermusclebuilding.com

BizResearcher | Window Shopper | 11/3/2010 - 8:25 am

Registering your business name and creating a business will allow you to deduct expenses related to the web site, such as hosting fees, on your taxes. If you do as you suggest, and list the income from the site as 'other income' on your tax return, you would not be able to deduct your expenses, so you would pay taxes on the full amount you earn.

JimD | Former Moderator | 11/3/2010 - 4:17 am

Jimma, I think you are confusing registering a business and a business license. Licenses are usually handled on a local level, but registering is on a state level. Take a look at the different types of incorporations. It may be better for you to start a LLC because it will separate your personal finances from the business. You should follow 10 Steps for Starting a Business. And one other article that would be good to read Why Register a Business? JimD

twin | Window Shopper | 11/18/2010 - 6:05 am

I totally agree with greenliving. Why risking the repuation and generating huge problems. I would just start a business and expend it as much as possible.