Click to See Complete Forum and Search --> : Couple questions regarding company start-up
Webjedikungfu
03-21-2007, 05:19 PM
Do I have to purchase an official business lisence to own and operate a web design/programming company? The company will function just inside the U.S..
I'd like to offer my clients hosting and domain name. Should I become a reseller? say through godaddy? And how does that actually work? Do I just purchase the domain and hosting for them in my name and charge them the fee?
Thanks to any info givers
If you're planning on employing only yourself, you don't need to purchase a business license. You will need to fill out a special form when it comes tax time for the IRS - http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f1040sse.pdf. If you anticipate employing others, there are certain steps you have to take. I suggest you take a look at the Dept. of Labor's website: http://www.dol.gov/dol/topic/index.htm, then contact your state's labor board to find out the specifics for your region.
KDLA
While it's generally not a big deal, if you live in an area with a homeowners association, you may want to would check their rules. I have heard of more than one occasion where someone got into trouble because they were not allowed to have a home business. As I said, it's generally not the case but it doesn't hurt.
chrisranjana
03-22-2007, 09:31 AM
Not sure but websites like http://www.corporate.com/ may help
Webjedikungfu
03-22-2007, 01:54 PM
Thanks for the reply you guys.
Yeah it will be just me working for it.
So am I free and clear to charge folks for my webwork like anybody else does?
I'm assuming yes, but just wondering if anyone else has anything to add.
Just be aware that licensing is different in many locations. You need to check with your own city, county, and state. We don't offer legal advice, just what we know based on experience. To say outright you don't need a business license, we can't do as we don't know the laws in your area. I do know that, in some areas, you are required by law to obtain a business license if you plan on doing it as a business (not a hobby that you sometimes charge for), no matter what it is.
Webjedikungfu
03-24-2007, 06:08 PM
Cool, good info, thanks lee. I owe u 1:)
U 2 miss moderator (KDLA)
Oh yeah, and chris:) thanks
RobDog888
04-08-2007, 01:01 PM
Note: If you dont create a leagal official business entity like a Limited Liability Corporation you wil be held personally responsible for any damages or "malpractice" issues you may incur during business operations and projects. This means if you have a home or car then you can be persoanlly sued and loose everything you own and be in debt.
Webjedikungfu
04-08-2007, 02:58 PM
Thanks RobDog,
That's the type of stuff I need to know too.
What happens if I program an e-commerce site and don't secure things right. And some evildoer comes in and gets credit card numbers, names, and precious info from the databases and then does various things to destroy the company I programmed the site for?
Where does that put me?
What are the various ways I can get burned doing a web design co.?:confused: :D
What are the various ways I can get burned doing a web design co.?:confused: :D
Under-bidding a project; impossible, arrogant, know-it-all clients; clients who want to be the web designer; clients who never send you any info and think you can read their mind; clients who change their mind hourly; and working without a contract.
I could go on...
TC
Webjedikungfu
04-08-2007, 06:58 PM
Ugh, Ok let me ask this then, seeing as you guys have experience.
In your opinion, is it even a worthwhile and lucrative business?
Do I have to be a graphical god to make it?
Would you recommend another direction for someone interested in persuing web work for a living?
Thanks for all this great info guys!
Well, it's best to start out with a company, then use that forum to really improve your skills, get to know the environment, and take advantage of all the training you can. Then, start doing some freelance work on the side, building up clients and a reputation; also getting to know your community. Then, if you're really confident and have sufficient income, start your own business.
But, really, I suggest always having another job. Freelance tech. jobs aren't always consistent because they're dependent upon clients and/or the stability of their businesses.
Webjedikungfu
04-09-2007, 05:28 AM
nice online resources you have there KDLA, thanks. And your FYI made me giggle!
Do you know any good resources on where I can find places to freelance?
Is my best bet www.guru.com? I live in a tiny town and need a further reach, putting my business card up around here would'nt do me too much good.
Thanks again KDLA