The First Step In Business Formation: Choosing An Entity
Choosing the right business entity is crucial for every new business. An improper selection can cripple your business before it has a chance to succeed. At the Law Office of Ernesto Aldover, I have more than 50 years of experience working with new businesses and startups, and I assist you in building the strong foundation every business needs. I take the time to listen to you, explain your formation options and advise which choices are best suited for your business.
Common Business Entity Choices
Entity choice affects every element of your business. It affects your taxes, how control is exercised over your business (in partnership and multiple owner situations) and exposure to personal liability if the business is sued among other issues.
- Limited liability companies are a popular choice, especially with small-business owners. They function as a hybrid between a partnership and a corporation. Taxes on income and losses pass through the company to the LLC’s members. LLC operating agreements also determine each member’s role, including handling the daily operations of the business. Personal liability is limited as well.
- S-corporations also allow taxes to be passed through to shareholders, but may not be used as often as other choices of entity since owners must meet certain IRS criteria in order to make the election as a subchapter S-corp. Personal liability is limited.
- C-corporations pay taxes, and their shareholders must account for gains and losses on their personal tax returns. This double taxation often makes this entity unattractive for smaller businesses, but the robustness and flexibility of the structure make sense for larger entities. C-corporation status brings additional paperwork and legal filing requirements. Owners receive protections from liability.
- Partnerships do not require much paperwork, but they also do not provide personal liability protection to the partners. Each partner pays taxes on income and losses as well.
Counsel For More Than Entity Choice
In addition to choosing an entity, drafting the operating agreement, the articles of incorporation and corporate bylaws or partnership agreement is critical.
These are not mere formalities, but the heart of how your business will operate. These instruments allocate authority and control of the company, provide mechanisms for preventing and settling disputes within your business and identify a succession plan.
The best time to set expectations with clear guidance is at the beginning of a business when comparatively little is at stake and everyone is like-minded is the best time to set expectations with clear guidance. Once a dispute is brewing, the opportunity is lost.
Forming A Relationship And An Entity
After formation, I can assist with compliance issues going forward. Different entities have specific legal requirements that must be met in terms of filing and documentation. I can help you maintain your status as an entity with cost-effective compliance.
I work with my clients beyond the startup stage, and my foundational understanding of your business means I can help with all aspects of operating your business. I know all businesses are sensitive to legal expenses and I provide efficient outside general counsel assistance for many of my long-term clients. I strive to create that relationship with every client.
Contact Me
Call my Palos Verdes Estates office at 310-316-4899 to schedule an appointment with me or use my online form.