I want get to a tax id number. Do I need a lawyer?

Question

I have a limited budget so I would like to start a LLC or incorporate myself. Is such a thing possible without an attorney?

Answer 1

If you have limited budget, then why not start as a sole proprietorship. When the business starts earning, say in a couple of months or so, then do an LLC or incorporate. Unless of course you are running a service business where you have a very high probability of being sued, as LLC and corporation separates your personal from business assets

But yes, incorporating or LLC can be done even without an attorney. Just go to your Secretary of State and fill up and submit the forms required. Go to your library and borrow books on how to start an LLC or corporation as these books typically give examples and instructions on how to do the articles of incorporation or other paperwork

As for tax ID, you need that if you are an LLC or corporation. You apply at the IRS for your EIN http://www.irs.gov/businesses/small/arti...

Answer 2

A tax id number for an LLC or for anything that is incorporated is always an Employer Identification Number (EIN), even if there are no employees.  An attorney is not needed to obtain an EIN.

[The other types of federal tax id numbers are an Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITIN) and a social security number (SSN).  These two types are given only to humans, not to businesses.]

It would be wise to consult an attorney regarding the pros and cons of creating an LLC or incorporating.  Many individuals do not under legal consequences until someone sues them or their taxes are audited.

Answer 3

You don't need a lawyer to get a tax id number - that's simple, just apply to the IRS.

Technically you don't need a lawyer to incorporate either, but you'd be wise to talk to one to be sure you understand all the ramifications of being incorporated.

Answer 4

First, you do not have to be a LLC or a corporation to get a tax id number it is a very simple form.

However, if you really do want an LLC that is also very simple (most job applications are harder). Most states are set up where you can file on-line. But, knowing the rules for a LLC is a bit harder but still fairly easy (if it is a single owner LLC). A corporation or multiple owner LLC is another story.

Something else you will probably have to do is file a fictitious name (in most states).

Hope this helps

Answer 5

http://www.irs.gov/businesses/small/arti...

Good luck!