Just Starting Up

[KyleHenriques]

What's up guys, I am looking to start up my own computer repair/network/training business but I want to develop a steady clientele first. I was thinking about creating a web site for my business but not using a fictitious name. Obviously, since I don't have a business started up. Is it okay to do that, legally? Get a web site started up, maybe "Kyle's Computer Repair" or whatever it may be, until I get things started up. My main question is if it is legal or not to get things started this way?

Thanks ahead,

Kyle

[borisfowler]

You don't have to be an LLC or INC to have a business, although it is best to. A lot of times this can offer credibility to your business and can make your clients feel comfortable.

You might want to read some articles about startup just to understand the process a little more. There is a lot to it and you want to make sure everything goes the way you expect it to.

Hot Sauce! The Secret Sauce for Entrepreneurs These have a lot of good articles that may pertain to you.

[TweetGirl]

I agree with Boris. Do some research about startup companies. You can find a lot of great information.

J Leach

[chanson]

You will most likely need to have a registered company to do things "legally" because you will have to charge tax, report income and tax collected, and also apply for a local business license. However this does not mean you have to incorporate you could register a sole prop. Some of this may be affected by your local regulations. IF you are going to be doing straight cash jobs then you can avoid some of this. Check with an accountant for the maximum you can earn in this type of business, and technically yes it does have to be reported as income. technically. In my area you can get a sole prop, business name, and local business license for around $250 total. So it is pretty minor for startup fees to do things legally. In the end, always seek professional advice! Good luck!

Chris

[KyleHenriques]

Am I able to just register for an EIN and I am safe? I just save all invoices and records of everything. Is that okay to do? Or do I need to register with the federal government for a business. I am not looking to use a bizarre name, I am actually looking into Kyle's Computer Repair. Please let me know as soon as possible.

[chanson]

Your local government should have a free service where you can call and ask these types of questions. It can be very tough to answer because the laws are different in every locale!

I know where I am you can actually operate as a "hobby" business from your home until you make a certain amount of money. You don't have to collect tax on your services, but if you do then you have to register with the government regardless of the amount. I am in Canada and your not so the chances of our laws being similar are slim

[KyleHenriques]

Yeah I am sure they are actually completely different haha. I keep reading and reading and reading all over the place. I am reading as we speak that I can file as I am self-employed. I just need to register for an EIN.