Entrepreneurs must juggle countless tasks and competing priorities well before they open shop, including the creation of a legal structure. Business formation is a necessary early step when starting a business, whether you're registering a simple DBA, incorporating or forming a partnership.
The way in which your business is formed will determine the personal liability of the founders, how taxes are paid, and other important details. For example, a sole proprietor typically makes decisions on her or his own, while a partner in a partnership must get approval from all other partners prior to making major decisions for the company. The main business legal structures are:
- Sole Proprietorship
- Partnership
- Limited Liability Company (LLC)
- Corporation
- Nonprofit
The following checklists and articles will help you quickly get started with the process of creating a legal structure for your new business.
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Starting a Partnership
Incorporating a Small Business
Starting an LLC
Forming a Nonprofit
State Resources
Tax Information from the IRS
See FindLaw's Incorporation and Legal Structures section to learn more.
Choosing a Legal Structure for Your Small Business? We Can Help.
There are many processes that entrepreneurs can do on their own, including some tasks related to business formation. However, many prospective business owners find it beneficial to go through an easy-to-use, reputable online service to form their business.
If you have specific questions about forming your business, you may benefit from the help of a trained lawyer. You can get started today by finding an experienced business organizations attorney in your neighborhood.