LLCs

Limited Liability Company

Can anyone own an interest in an LLC?

And therein lies a major difference between LLCs and S Corporations – because LLCs can be owned by practically anyone or anything, making them very useful for pass-through taxation, while being owned by other entities.

July 7th, 2015|0 Comments

If I’m the only member of my LLC, do I really have liability protection?

Yes. Well, you have the same liability protection as a multi-member LLC. There will be some specific exceptions. For example, if you are personally negligent or you are responsible for your company's payroll tax obligations, then you'll be exposed to personal liability. But being a single-member LLC won't change that. There may be instances where being in a partnership may change an outcome in an insolvency situation and certain specific other circumstances.

July 10th, 2016|0 Comments

When I form my corporation or LLC, is that a license?

No, but thanks for asking a weird question. You’re likely getting confused with some industries, like talent management, that may require you to obtain a license from a particular state agency. The formation of the entity doesn’t trigger automatic licensure, nor does it automatically require you to get a license for your business. Licensure for your business is separate and apart from forming an entity. And, in some instances, if you are required to obtain a license, that may dictate the kind of entity your form.

June 15th, 2015|0 Comments

What’s a Tax ID number?

I find that this is much more critical than some people think. A tax ID number is your corporation or LLC’s separate tax identity. Whether it’s opening a bank account, setting up payroll, or filing a tax return, this number is THE number for all purposes. Here’s how you can get one (good luck to you) or here's how you can get one (answered by me). Important note: you need some kind of tax identification to get a Tax ID Number. Usually that original identification comes in the form of an individual's Social Security Number (usually the person forming the entity if it's a small business). But foreign owners have a more difficult time doing this since they don't usually have Social Security Numbers; in that case, they need to apply for an individual tax ID number, and then use that number to get the Tax ID Number for the corporation or LLC.

June 15th, 2015|0 Comments

How do I get a tax identification number?

You can go to the IRS’s website, and go through their multi-page question and answer pages. Make sure you're ready with your SS-4, as the IRS may ask for that over the phone if it doesn’t like one of your answers. (PS, the IRS is not in the habit of liking.)

June 15th, 2015|0 Comments

If I convert my LLC from one state to, say, California, do I need a new Tax ID number for the LLC in California?

Since the LLC is just moving from one state to another, and not changing its structure or tax status, a new Tax ID number shouldn’t be required. The LLC would need a new Tax ID number, for example, if you terminate the LLC in one state and then start a new one in another state [...]

August 6th, 2020|0 Comments

What’s an assignment?

An assignment is a document used to transfer assets from one entity or owner to another. Click here to see if you need one.

June 15th, 2015|0 Comments

What’s a capital contribution?

In its most basic terms, this is the money (or sometimes the assets, like equipment) you put into your business. It differs from a loan in that it doesn’t accrue interest payable to you. If you put money into your corporation or LLC (or partnership), then the return of that money to you as you start to distribute money to you, is non-taxable.

June 15th, 2015|0 Comments

Do I have to make a capital contribution?

No, a capital contribution isn't necessary. But typically you would, and should, make one. You would because there’s almost no way to start a business with zero invested in it. And you should because if your corporation is “under-capitalized”, then you could be exposing yourself and fellow shareholders or members to personal liability, making the formation of the entity a waste of time and money. And it takes more than $1.00 to protect yourself (but nice try).

June 15th, 2015|0 Comments

Will putting my personal residence into an LLC protect it from my creditors?

Sorry, but . . . LOL – no. People do try this, though. The purpose of an LLC, and therefore what it ultimately protects, by law, is the business that’s operating inside it. Unless you have turned your personal residence into a business (not really a personal residence anymore), then it’s not protectable this way. However, one of the main reasons people put their business into an LLC is to protect their personal assets, like their home. Nice try, though.

June 15th, 2015|0 Comments