Chapter Three
Virtual Assistant Business Legalities
Before you actually open your virtual business doors, you must ensure that you are operating your business legally. You must take the following steps:
1. Find out what business licenses are required for your town or city and apply for them.
2. Determine whether you need a zoning permit to legally work from your home. If you do need a zoning permit, apply for one.
3. Choose your business name, ensuring that it is not already being used by another person or company, and register it with your town or state, as required.
4. Choose your business entity – sole proprietorship, partnership, Limited Liability Company (LLC) or corporation – and register with your state.
If you are not sure what business entity best suits your needs, consult an attorney or your local Small Business Administration. The business entity you choose will, in large part, determine how you are taxed, so take time to make the decision that is best for you and your business.
While the legalities of starting a business may be somewhat tedious, it is extremely important that you tend to them before you open your virtual business doors. Once you have the legalities out of the way, you will be ready to prepare for opening your business.
Next: Chapter Four: Marketing Your Virtual Assistant Business
Previous: Chapter Three: Starting Your Own Virtual Assistant Business
Table of Contents for the Virtual Assistant Career Guide:
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