Are You Ready To Incorporate?

If you are a small business owner whose product or service is really taking off, it may be time to think about incorporating. This means that you will have to register your company officially with the state and file articles of incorporation. In addition, you will need to follow rules and regulations that govern corporations in the United States. These rules cover areas like employment and human resource issues. For example, if you decide to hire people to help staff your business, you cannot discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, gender, age, or religious views. But these criteria are evaluated differently in each state, so you should try to get some information about the ways in which your state traditionally has handled conflicts of this type. Another process to be aware of is paying employment taxes that help to fund unemployment and workers compensation. As a corporation, your business must be above reproach in adhering to local, state, and federal guidelines. Paying taxes is probably the most significant area where you will see differences in the way you operate your business. Amounts may not differ by much, but tax filings can become more complicated, so it is advisable to consult a tax attorney or hire an accountant to keep tabs on your books. Many small business administrations

offer free advice or counsel to business owners who are thinking about incorporating. Check the phone book to see if your area has an organization of this type that can provide helpful answers to your questions. Another source of information might be the chamber of commerce. Or you can ask a businessperson whose expertise you trust for information that you need. Local business colleges may offer business guidance at low or no cost to someone in your position who needs information about incorporation. If you’re poised to grow, this is an exciting time for your business. Just be sure and do it right by filing the proper paperwork after consulting with experienced professionals.