THE SUNLIGHT TAX BLOG:
Tax and Money Education for Creative People, Freelancers and Solopreneurs
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The Right Step at the Right Time (Order of Business Operations: What Comes First?)
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In this episode of the Sunlight Tax podcast, I dive into the essentials of choosing the right business structure for anyone in self-employment, especially when it comes to forming an LLC or electing S-Corp status. I highlight why it's important to avoid unnecessary business formations and walk you through the proper order of business operations—reminding you that your business officially begins the moment you start advertising.
I also share practical tax advice, including how different structures impact your taxes, and offer tips on bookkeeping and protecting yourself with liability insurance.
Listen and Subscribe Here
In this episode of the Sunlight Tax podcast, I dive into the essentials of choosing the right business structure for anyone in self-employment, especially when it comes to forming an LLC or electing S-Corp status. I highlight why it's important to avoid unnecessary business formations and walk you through the proper order of business operations—reminding you that your business officially begins the moment you start advertising.
I also share practical tax advice, including how different structures impact your taxes, and offer tips on bookkeeping and protecting yourself with liability insurance. Whether you’re a new entrepreneur or already deep into running your business, this episode will help you assess your needs and make confident decisions about your structure. Understanding your options as a self-employed business owner can save you time, money, and headaches down the road.
Also mentioned in this episode:
00:00 Understanding Business Structures: LLCs and S-Corps
04:02 Order of Operations in Business
09:58 The Role of LLCs in Business
12:20 Understanding S Corporations
19:00 Final Thoughts on Business Structure and Operations
Takeaways
A lot of people form LLCs and S corporations when they're not necessary.
You want to be at the right level at the right time.
Don't take business advice from random people on the internet.
The moment you advertise is when your business starts.
Bookkeeping is a requirement for tracking income and expenses.
An LLC provides liability protection but is not always necessary.
Business liability insurance can be a cost-effective alternative to an LLC.
You do not need an S corporation until you reach a certain profit threshold.
Forming an S corporation too early can lead to unnecessary expenses.
Consult with professionals to understand local regulations regarding S-Corps.
If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share it!
Every review makes a difference by telling Apple or Spotify to show the Sunlight podcast to new audiences.
Links:
Link to pre-order my book, Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You’re Self-Employed.
Get your free visual guide to tax deductions
LLC Myths: The Truth About LLCs and Taxes
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In this episode of the Sunlight Podcast, I’m unpacking some of the biggest myths I hear about forming an LLC. If you're self-employed or thinking about business formation, it's so important to understand what an LLC really is—and what it isn't. I talk through common misconceptions about taxes, liability protection, whether an LLC makes you a “real” legal entity, and how much ongoing accounting or paperwork is actually needed.
I also share why business insurance is still essential (yes, even if you have an LLC), and how good financial advice can help you make smart choices for your business. Plus, I give a sneak peek at my upcoming book, Taxes for Humans, where I go even deeper into LLCs, business structures, and all the stuff no one teaches you when you become self-employed.
Listen and Subscribe Here
In this episode of the Sunlight Podcast, I’m unpacking some of the biggest myths I hear about forming an LLC. If you're self-employed or thinking about business formation, it's so important to understand what an LLC really is—and what it isn't. I talk through common misconceptions about taxes, liability protection, whether an LLC makes you a “real” legal entity, and how much ongoing accounting or paperwork is actually needed.
I also share why business insurance is still essential (yes, even if you have an LLC), and how good financial advice can help you make smart choices for your business. Plus, I give a sneak peek at my upcoming book, Taxes for Humans, where I go even deeper into LLCs, business structures, and all the stuff no one teaches you when you become self-employed.
00:00 Introduction to LLC Myths
04:43 Myth 1: LLCs Change Your Taxes
08:28 Myth 2: LLCs Make Your Business Official
10:25 Myth 3: LLCs Are the Only Protection
13:12 Myth 4: LLCs Are Set It and Forget It
17:19 Final Thoughts and My Book, Taxes for Humans
Takeaways
LLCs do not change your taxes; they are a legal entity.
Your business is official when you have a profit motive, not an LLC.
LLCs provide liability protection but are not the only option.
Business liability insurance can also protect your business.
Maintaining an LLC requires annual fees and updates.
Accounting practices are essential to uphold LLC protections.
Don't rely on friends' advice about LLCs; understand your own needs.
Pre-orders for books are crucial for their success.
An LLC is a flexible entity that allows various tax options.
Separate business and personal accounts are mandatory for LLCs.
If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share it!
Every review makes a difference by telling Apple or Spotify to show the Sunlight podcast to new audiences.
Links:
Link to pre-order my book, Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You’re Self-Employed.
My On-demand class: Make Taxes Easier and Stash an Extra $152k in Your Savings
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