Question by Tom B: What do I need to do in order to start my own graphic design business?
I have a small freelance design “business” now, and I am wanting to go full-time. I just don’t know the legalities, if I need to register w/ the county (business name and what not).
Thanks for the help!
Best answer:
Answer by bluegoat114
Info here will help: sba.gov You need to write a business plan. Yes, you need to get a business license from your local authorities…check with city hall and/or the state you live in. Consider setting up as a LLC so if you get sued they cannot touch your personal assets, etc. etc. Lots of good info on sba.gov in terms of regulations, etc. Good Luck!
Know better? Leave your own answer in the comments!
Use this basic checklist to make sure all the important steps are taken before you launch your new venture. This business checklist will make sure that you cross all your t’s and dot all your i’s before your business launch.
Steps to Starting a Business -
http://www.developer-resource.com/starting-a-business.htm
Other sites you might find helpful are:
SBA – http://www.sba.gov/
SCORE – http://www.score.org
Small Business Resource – http://www.small-business-software.net
Business Link – http://www.businesslink.gov.uk/bdotg/action/home
Goodluck!
Hi Tom,
Here’s a quick list of things you’ll need:
1. Pay a business tax or get a business license, depending on your state. Check with your local City Treasurer website.
2. If you are using a special name (that isn’t your real name) you’ll need to file for a fictitious business name. Again, check your City Treasurer site or your local chamber of commerce. (If you are using your real name as your business name, no action is needed.)
After filing for your fictitious business name and paying a small fee, you are usually required to publish an announcement in a local publication, such as a newspaper. Even the smallest newspapers will do, so shop around for the best price by visiting newspaper and publication websites and look for the business announcements section. They’ll walk you through the process – it’s pretty painless.
3. What will your legal status be? If you choose to incorporate, you will need to take further action. Otherwise, as a freelancer, you can use “sole proprietor” status and no legal status filing will be required (this is recommended). You’ll have no protection of your assets as a sole proprietor, but graphic design isn’t a very litigious profession by nature. : ) Look at sites such as findlaw.com for more information on business set ups.
My blog has links to graphic design resources as well, which may help:
http://examplify.blogspot.com/
Best of luck!