The first step in most entrepreneurial endeavors is forming a new entity to protect the personal interests of the owners. There are a number of factors to consider when deciding to form a new entity, such as:
- What type of entity to form – a corporation or a limited liability company?
- What state do you decide to form your entity in?
- Are you issuing stock or certain membership interests?
- What should the name of your new entity be?
- Who will own the entity?
- What is the agreement between the partners?
- How are profits split up?
- Who controls the management?
- What if the owners don’t get along?
- And a myriad of other questions, hypotheticals and future considerations…
Every situation is unique, and it is highly recommended that you discuss your business and goals with an attorney prior to forming a new entity. You need a business attorney to discuss who will take the time to understand your goals, your needs and your unique situation. Forming the entity is the easy part, what you do with it and what happens next is where you need experienced guidance.
Employer Identification Number (“EIN”)
The entity will need to file for an Employer Identification Number (“EIN”) with the IRS. The EIN number is the equivalent of a Social Security number for your business. An EIN number is crucial to conducting any transactions on behalf of your business, such as opening a bank account or paying your taxes.
It is imperative to get an EIN assigned to your entity soon after it is formed. If you form an entity, with getting an EIN or without transacting any business in the entity’s name, you risk losing any legal protection, which is typically the purpose for entity formation in the first place. It is not a bright line between legal protection and no legal protection: many factors are considered. Let us help you navigate the issues to give you the most cost-effective protection to match your specific business purpose.
Listen to our Clients
We both want to thank you for the tremendous results you achieved for us. We can’t tell you how much we appreciated how fast and thorough you were, especially while on your vacation! We just want you to know how happy we are with the service you provided for us. Many, many thanks!
Work with an Experienced Law Firm
Please call us today at 215-525-1165 for more information and to discuss the specifics of your situation. We look forward to speaking with you soon and helping you on your journey toward business ownership.