A sole proprietorship is all yours, but guarding and growing it aren't all on you. We can help you file a DBA, get permits, find legal help, and even convert to an LLC.
Over half of our DBA customers are sole proprietors.
As a sole proprietor, you're personally liable if the business gets sued or incurs debts.
Sole proprietors must report business profits as personal income, and pay self-employment tax.
It's harder to attract investors because you have no partners, shares, or membership interests.
How you can build your business
Use a name other than your own to do business, open a bank account, and build a brand.
Make sure you have all required permits and licenses to run your business legally.
Operate as an LLC to protect your personal assets if your business ever gets sued or incurs debts.
Subscribe to a Business Advisory Plan, and get help from a network attorney.
As a sole proprietor, by default, the legal name of your business is your own name. But you can choose to operate the business under another name, known as a “fictitious business name” or “doing business as” (DBA). Most states require you to file an application for your DBA.
You don't have to register or file any paperwork with the federal government to form a sole proprietorship. If you go into business without setting up another business structure, then you're automatically considered a sole proprietor if you're the sole owner.
However, some states and counties may require you to obtain business licenses and/or permits before you can lawfully operate, Also, if you want your business to have a name that's different from your own legal name, then most states will require you to file for a DBA.
Learn more about sole proprietorships and how they compare to more formal business structures.
Even if your business is a sole proprietorship, you should have a separate business bank account to help separate your business and personal income and expenses. This will help you properly report your business income on your personal tax returns. Most banks will allow you to open an account for your sole proprietorship using your social security number.
If you plan on doing business under a fictitious name (“DBA”), most banks will require proof of the filed DBA before they will open the account.
See also: Can I conduct business and open a bank account before my DBA has been filed?
You can always choose to restructure your business. Whenever you decide your business might be outgrowing its status as a sole proprietorship–whether you're looking to take on partners or investors, or you want the benefit of different tax options and liability protection–we have resources to help you find the business structure that's right for you.
Get the right guidance with an attorney by your side.
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