virginia tax articles and resources for business owners, farmers, ranchers, and executives

Starting A Business? Protect Personal Assets Through Business Entity Formation
By Shannon Cavers
Many small businesses start as a part-time effort that grow over time, and eventually become a profit generating venture. One of the difficult questions for a small business owner is, “When do I need to form an entity?” A follow-up question is which type of entity to form such as a corporation (sub-chapter S or C Corporation), limited partnership (LP), limited liability partnership (LLP), or limited liability company (LLC).

The business person who is a sole proprietor should be aware that his/her liability is virtually unlimited. When you do not have the protection of an entity under which your business operates, it is your personal assets that are at risk. Therefore, if a party were to sue you, your personal assets would be exposed. Many states, such as Texas, offer homestead protection so that creditors cannot foreclose on an individual’s home, but such laws vary from state to state.

The formation of a legitimate business entity offers varying forms of protection for a business person’s personal assets. Entity formation is the process wherein one establishes an entity authorized to conduct business within a certain jurisdiction. In Texas, one would file entity

Our articles continue...
Avocado growers supply Super Bowl Sunday

Sheep ranchers in a tight spot

Pest-sniffing dogs protect California crops

California students to attend national ag forum



formation papers through the Secretary of State’s office. Each state has a government office that handles entity formation. Generally, an entity can be created for as little as $50-$250 per application. Though this step often occurs later as a business grows, it is a small financial investment to make early on. Creating an entity also gives your business credibility in that you have taken the steps to define it as a functioning entity. The most common entity formed by a new start-up business is the LLC (Limited Liability Company). Limited liability companies are designed like partnerships, and therefore suitable to small businesses, but have asset protection similar to a corporation. When your entity is set up you will also receive a tax ID from the state comptroller. Therefore, you will likely have to file a franchise tax return in your state(s) of operation. You should also request a federal tax identification number (FEIN). You may want to consult a CPA to determine which type of entity offers the most tax advantages in your state.

The other component in protecting personal assets is to purchase business liability insurance. Most insurance carriers have business divisions which write general liability insurance polices. Contact your current carrier and see if you can obtain insurance this way. Additionally, you may be covered under your homeowner’s policy depending on the business you are in, anticipated revenues, and the potential exposure. Speak with your insurance carrier to find out what you need to do to protect yourself.

You can apply for the entity yourself or with the aid of an attorney. As mentioned earlier, you should speak with a tax attorney or CPA about which entity offers you the best tax advantage in your state.

Shannon Cavers is a Houston Business and Divorce Lawyer practicing in business, divorce, family law and probate. More information and articles can be found at her website at htp://www.caverslaw.com

Shannon Cavers is a Houston Business and Divorce Lawyer practicing in business, divorce, family law and probate. More information and articles can be found at her website at www.caverslaw.com




Here are some more accountant articles...

Monaco To Start Recording Finance Figures
By John Smith
Europe's number one tax haven Monaco is to start collating and publishing figures showing it's GDP for the first time.YourMonaco.com, who produce an independent travel guide for Monaco and Read more...
Guide To Buying Property In Spain
By Needahand
Are you in the wonderful position of being able to afford to buy a holiday home abroad? Or are you simply thinking of moving to a country with a more temperate climate and a more relaxed way of life? Read more...
Some Financial Planners Undoubtedly Offer Poor Financial Planning Recommendations
By Charles Wallace
A target values greater and greater tax (VAT), also known being as how 'Nuts and bolts and Services Tax'. Whenever a organization added is registered for VAT, buys piffle or services from Read more...
Financial Strategies For Entrepreneurs
Some conceive unique inheritance taxes do nix get several harmful impact on the economy and may even continue profitable seeing as how myself encourage consumer settle along alongside the elderly. Read more...
virginia tax news:





One who is skilled at keeping business records. Usually, a highly trained professional rather than one who keeps books. An accoun­tant can set up the books needed for a business to operate and help the owner understand them.