Starting a business can be a massive undertaking, and it all begins with deciding how you will structure it. For those considering a sole proprietorship, an in-depth understanding of the risks and process is crucial. Learn more, including how an attorney can provide the added protection and experienced assistance that is needed, from the following information.Is Sole Proprietorship Right for Your Business?
Before making a final determination on whether a sole proprietorship may be appropriate for your start-up company, consider all the elements of this business structure carefully. For example, one must understand that sole proprietorships are for businesses with only one owner. Partnerships and corporations must register their businesses in other ways. Second, know that there are more liability risks for sole proprietorships. If your business is in a high-risk industry, a sole proprietorship may not be the most appropriate business structure. Alternatively, if your business is at a low risk of experiencing a lawsuit, a sole proprietorship could offer you numerous benefits.
First, sole proprietorships do not have to legally register as a business with the federal government, and that can save you a substantial amount in the startup of your business. Depending on your situation, the pass-through taxation of sole proprietorships may also serve as a benefit for your budding business. However, this is not always the case. Advice from an experienced attorney and a CPA is highly recommended for those considering this structure for their business.
A Closer Look at the Risks of Sole Proprietorship
Starting a business is almost always risky, but those starting a sole proprietorship hold all the liability if their company goes under. That means you – the owner – would be liable for any debts that the company incurred. You would also be liable if an employee was injured on the job, or if they filed a legal complaint against your company. Thankfully, it is possible to take preventative action against many of these risks, as well as many others.
Contact Our Crystal Lake Business Law Attorneys
Whether you need assistance with deciding which business structure may be most appropriate for your company or want an in-depth analysis of the possible risks your business could face in the future, Drost, Gilbert, Andrew & Apicella, LLC can help. Committed to your best interests, our experienced Crystal Lake business law attorneys take a preventative approach to protecting your company’s financial future. Schedule a personalized consultation to get started. Call our offices at 847-934-6000 today.
About the Author: Attorney Ken Apicella is a founding partner of DGAA focusing in the areas of personal injury, employment, insurance coverage disputes, and civil litigation. Ken earned his J.D. from DePaul University College of Law in 1999. He has been named a SuperLawyers Rising Star and a Forty Illinois Attorneys Under Forty to Watch. Ken has written and lectured for the Illinois Institute for Continuing Legal Education and regularly serves as a moderator at Northwest Suburban Bar Association's Continuing Legal Education seminars.
Source:
https://www.illinois.gov/dceo/SmallBizAssistance/BeginHere/Pages/StepByStepGuide.aspx