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Old 02-12-2010, 06:55 PM
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Cool LLC or Corporation

I'm ready to make the business legit!

Now I am scratching my head trying to determine if I should file as an LLC or a Corporation?

From your experience would you recommend one or the other?

I have a few wedding booked this year and I want to make sure I don't have any issues with Uncle Sam later on.

Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks,
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Old 02-12-2010, 07:07 PM
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Why do either? For a small business Sole Proprietorship has advantages....You're not protected from liability, but there's not much liability risk in photography.
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Old 02-12-2010, 07:18 PM
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"Why do either? For a small business Sole Proprietorship has advantages....You're not protected from liability, but there's not much liability risk in photography. "
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I disagree with this 1000% - there is liability in anything today and to risk your home because you wanted to be cheap is just plain stupid. As for LLC versus S-Corp there are unique issues to each and no one size fits all answer. You should consult a tax accountant in your area that can look at your unique situation and tell you which one makes more sense for you. I have an LLC and an S-Corp for different non-photo businesses and there are reasons why each business has each form.
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Old 02-12-2010, 07:43 PM
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Well, I've been "risking my home" for well over a decade....

It's not a matter of "being cheap". It's what suits me and business best with the most tax advantage for my situation. I'm ok with a little risk.
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Old 02-12-2010, 07:47 PM
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Just get an umbrella policy with a large personal liability. Cheaper and less of a hassle. LLC's liability protection can be pierced.
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Old 02-12-2010, 07:51 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by wannabephotographer View Post
Just get an umbrella policy with a large personal liability. Cheaper and less of a hassle. LLC's liability protection can be pierced.
So your recommending a Sole Prop with a big insurance policy?

Thanks for all the responses!
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Old 02-12-2010, 07:55 PM
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I *think* liability ins starts at 1million in coverage for a business policy. That was where it started at with my ins company anyways...
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Old 02-12-2010, 07:56 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by The Bing View Post
So your recommending a Sole Prop with a big insurance policy?

Thanks for all the responses!
yes it will cover you for accidents but not business related problems. So you may have to assume those risks.
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Old 02-12-2010, 08:00 PM
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Why are taxes soooooo complicated?
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Old 02-12-2010, 08:47 PM
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Just because one has been lucky does not mean it is smart to not be protected via an LLC or Corp wrapper. The best advice you will get here is to not listen to people here - consult and expert - an accountant or lawyer.
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