Launching a small business could represent a dramatic step in someone’s life. Successful entrepreneurs might discover that their new enterprise provides a source of wealth and freedom, and setting up the company properly helps achieve those outcomes. Florida professionals may wonder what steps are necessary to launch a small business on the right footing. Entrepreneurs must keep an eye on all responsibilities, including legal ones.
Legal duties for small business startup owners
Has the new business acquired all the necessary permits, and does the owner have a business license? Hopefully, an entrepreneur researched local requirements, procured all permits and complied with the rules. Imagine discovering one week before opening that the business must have two restrooms available to customers. If the facilities aren’t there, the business’s grand opening may face closures and delays for several weeks.
As for the business itself, has the owner chosen to operate under the appropriate designation? A brick-and-mortar business might work better as an LLC instead of a sole proprietorship. Others may find it better to act as a C-corporation or an S-corporation. The correct designation could help an entrepreneur address liabilities and remain in compliance with tax authorities.
As for taxes, proper bookkeeping is a must. Audits and other tax troubles become harder to handle when a startup’s financial records are confusing or incomplete.
Further responsibilities for new startups
Business law concerns extend to employees, including classifying them properly. Are they employees or independent contractors? If they are employees, workers’ compensation insurance and payroll tax responsibilities come into play.
Procuring the necessary business liability insurance might help if a disaster occurs. An insurance settlement may protect an entrepreneur’s assets if he or she incurs losses. In addition, poorly written, ambiguous contracts might cause problems. Entrepreneurs must make sure all contracts from leases to partnerships are legally sound.
By taking all the right precautions from the start, a small business owner has the best chance at running a successful company. They may need to make adjustments on the way, but it’s important to lay a good foundation.
