More clearly...Do I need a license??

Question

I am starting a business picking up dog p**p for people. Of course I will be charging money...do I need a license for doing this. If you dont have a license and have already been taking payments through paypal and checks...can you get in trouble?? If I do, who do I contact to find out if I need a license? If I dont, its ok to process lots of checks from customers through the bank?? I have customers also paying through paypal online...would that be considered online business??

Answer 1

If you have clients, you are in a very good spot. For one thing I would get a business license, tax ID, and every other legal permit that you're entitled to... for several reasons. With the proper business entity, you can advertise yourself and take the costs as deductions. The IRS allows you to even take a loss on business so long as you show intent to make profits. Imagine writing off your expenses instead of paying them out of pocket... it's an immediate increase to your income!!! Consider also having business insurance. What happens if you are bit by a dog or fall on someone else's property? What happens if a client sues you for whatever reason??? Having a business isn't all about making money... it's about collecting and paying taxes and establishing yourself personally and professionally. You can partner with other businesses or grow your business. You can refer a certain vet and let the vet refer your services. You can sell pet foods, toys, leashes, and promote a dog walking service. You can get into the minds of your customers to help them resolve needs they have. Maybe you have a family member or friend who will dog sit for vacationing clients? Why not consider getting discounts for your customers with various retail stores? When you know the industry, you can make even more money and provide more products and services but you can only do that when you're legal. Talk to your City Hall about the business you have and what you're thinking of down the line. Write a business plan... no matter how formal or informal. Survey your customer's needs and expectations. You can write off many expenses... including the permits, accounting costs, business cards, computer expenses, business travel, educational costs, and much more. Talk to one of the counselors at SBA or Score for more information.