Part 2 of 5 On The Home Business Set-Up GuideDear Reader, These articles will provide a step by step guide on how to start and run a home based business based on my experiences and other home business owners. This is part 2 in a series of 5 articles. They are written in a basic format and where possible main points are summarised in an attempt to be understood by all. I have tried to minimise
technical jargon as much as possible.
So lets jump right in and see what we need to know about starting and running a home based business.
Regards, Alvin http://www.parttimeincome.org
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Legal Structures
The legal structure of your business is very important as it is a function of liabilities and tax deduction. The most common structures are:
§Sole trader §Partnership §Company §Trust
Sole Trader
When you are a sole trader you are personally responsible and liable for
business and its activities. Commonly you may start out as a sole trader, and as you expand, you will need to seek out partners or investors. Your accountant is
best person to advise you if this is
best structure for your business.
Partnership
This arrangement is where you and your partner are liable for anything related to your business. It is a very good idea to get a solicitor to write up a partnership agreement to avoid disputes down
track.
Company
This is a legal entity liable for
debts it incurs and paying tax on income. Your accountant can help you set a company up, or you can buy one off
shelf, which may be more cost effective.
Trust
Depending on your personal circumstances, and
country you live in, trusts can be useful in business and estate planning. They can be quite complex, and again, your accountant is
best person to speak too.
Registering Your Business Name
You can operate a business under your own name or register a business name. Registration of a business name allows you to operate under that name. Select a name for your business that describes to your customer what you do. A descriptive name promotes and advertises your business more effectively.
Licences And Permits
Depending on your municipality, you may need licences and permits. Do
right thing and check with your local council. Doing
right things now will save you a lot of unnecessary leg work later.
Insurance
Often overlooked, insurance is an important part of your risk management plan. There are two types of insurance: general insurance for loss/damage of assets and risk insurance which is your personal insurance cover. Ensure your business insurance is separate to your personal insurance. To establish
type and amount of insurance you need for your home based business, check with an insurance broker.
Managing Risk
You must have a risk management strategy for your business. Your SWOT (Strengths, Weakness, Opportunities, Threats) analysis from article one, will show what could expose your business to loss and what actions to take to reduce that loss.