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what would be the correct business structure on dba and business tax certificate forms?

by hed, Window Shopper

  • Created: March 19, 2013, 9:51 pm
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3 comments
I am wanting to start a small home based hobby business and possibly doing it with my spouse instead of just me. but I am a little confused about the application forms for the dba and the business tax certifcate. If I run a small hobby business with my husband I am thinking that would make us a genera partnership (we don't intend to file articles of incorporation). but on the "ficticious business statment" application it gives several unincorporated options. Those options being "an individual" "a general partnership" "copartners" "a married couple" "joint venture" etc... I'm thinking that if I go into business with my husband that we would tick married couple or general partnership. But the business tax certificate application form only has 6 options. "individual" "partnership" "corporation" "llc" and "trust". So if "married couple" is the appropriate box on the dba form what would be the correct box on the tax certificate form? or should i tick general partnership on both forms? I am located in Los Angeles, CA if that helps. thanks in advance.
Tags: Discuss Popular Topics, Starting & Registering a Business
‹ What is/are reasonable entity type(s) for a Business Association? starting and registering a business ›

hed | Window Shopper | 4/5/2013 - 3:30 pm

Thank you.

JGabriel | Community Moderator | 3/20/2013 - 1:20 pm

For additional information you can seek a professional's guidance, such as an attorney or accountant. 

BizResearcher | Window Shopper | 3/20/2013 - 11:09 am

It sounds as if you are wanting to start a sole proprietorship. As a hobby
business, forming a general partnership would be over kill at this time. On
the DBA you should be allowed to be a sole proprietorship operated by a
married couple, who essentially act as "one," not two people, in decision
making. On the tax certificate you would then choose "individual."

If your business does well and grows, then later you can amend your
registration.