What do I need to start my own business?

I am starting my own magazine with several friends, but we are uncertain if we need to get a ficticious business, or if there are specific steps that we need to take for tax purposes. Is it also true that I don't have to show a profit immediately?
Share |
Answered By: Law Office of Sam Levine, LLC
I would be happy to talk with you if you are interested. Please feel free to call if you would like. Take care!

Answer Applies to: Georgia
Replied: 6/8/2011

Disclaimer: The response above does not form an attorney-client relationship. This answer may or may not apply to you and should not be relied upon as legal advice. LawQA does not make any representation as to the expertise or qualifications of this attorney. This attorney may or may not be admitted to state bar of your state.

Answered By: Steven J. Fromm
To start your own business, you not only have to have a good product or service. You must have a good business plan or model with assumptions and projections. You also need to have your legal vehicle determined. Should you operate as a C corporation, an S Corporation and LLC or limited partnership? The choice of entity consideration involve tax, business and practical issues. You need a good corporate/tax attorney to guide you in this selection based on your business model and tax considerations. Finally, you want to have a good team of professionals, both an attorney and accountant and a financial guy in place for regular advice and counsel.

Answer Applies to: Pennsylvania
Replied: 6/7/2011

Disclaimer: The response above does not form an attorney-client relationship. This answer may or may not apply to you and should not be relied upon as legal advice. LawQA does not make any representation as to the expertise or qualifications of this attorney. This attorney may or may not be admitted to state bar of your state.

Answered By: Law Office of Harry Gordon Oliver II
1) Fictitious business names get one if you want to make it a valuable asset. 2) May want to incorporate or be LLC. 3) No tax specific steps, but keep good business books & records, etc 4) Start ups usually start up with losses.

Answer Applies to: California
Replied: 6/7/2011

Disclaimer: The response above does not form an attorney-client relationship. This answer may or may not apply to you and should not be relied upon as legal advice. LawQA does not make any representation as to the expertise or qualifications of this attorney. This attorney may or may not be admitted to state bar of your state.

Answered By: Givner & Kaye
You need to sit down with a competent CPA and have a discussion about the form of business: LLC; partnership (limited or general); corporation ("C" or "S"); sole proprietorship. This is not the type of question for which you can get an answer over the internet. However, of course you do not have to show a profit immediately: few businesses do. If you tell me where you are located I will be glad to give you the contact information for a few CPAs.

Answer Applies to: California
Replied: 6/7/2011

Disclaimer: The response above does not form an attorney-client relationship. This answer may or may not apply to you and should not be relied upon as legal advice. LawQA does not make any representation as to the expertise or qualifications of this attorney. This attorney may or may not be admitted to state bar of your state.

More Questions on Tax


Talk to an Attorney

Input your zip code in the box below to find an attorney in your area today for a case review.

Ask Questions

Ask a local attorney a question for FREE.

Free Answers

FREE answer from a local attorney.

100% Anonymous

Your email is only used to send answers to you.

Ask a Local Attorney

Free Legal Questions & Answers