Forming a Corporation or LLC in Tennessee

How to Form an LLC or Corporation in Tennessee: A Step-by-Step Guide

Forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Corporation in Tennessee can be a straightforward process if you follow the necessary steps and understand the legal requirements. This guide will help you navigate the formation process, whether you’re starting a small business or a more complex venture.

Step 1: Choose Your Business Structure

The first decision you need to make is whether to form an LLC or a Corporation. Both have their advantages:

  • LLC: An LLC provides flexibility in management and less stringent compliance requirements. It also offers liability protection for its members.
  • Corporation: A Corporation is ideal if you plan to issue stock or raise capital from investors. It offers liability protection for its shareholders and has a more rigid management structure.

Step 2: Choose a Name for Your Business

Your business name must be unique and distinguishable from other registered businesses in Tennessee. You can check the availability of your desired business name through the Tennessee Secretary of State’s website. The name should also comply with Tennessee’s naming rules, such as including an indicator like “LLC” for Limited Liability Companies or “Inc.” for Corporations.

Step 3: Appoint a Registered Agent

Tennessee requires every LLC or Corporation to have a registered agent. This is an individual or business entity authorized to receive legal documents on behalf of your business. The registered agent must have a physical address in Tennessee and be available during normal business hours.

Step 4: File the Formation Documents

  • For an LLC: You need to file the Articles of Organization with the Tennessee Secretary of State. The filing can be done online or by mail. The form requires basic information such as the LLC’s name, principal office address, registered agent’s name and address, and the management structure (whether it’s member-managed or manager-managed).
  • For a Corporation: You need to file the Charter of Incorporation with the Tennessee Secretary of State. The form will ask for the corporation’s name, number of authorized shares, the purpose of the corporation, the registered agent’s details, and the names and addresses of the initial directors.

Step 5: Create an Operating Agreement or Bylaws

While not required by law, it’s highly recommended to create an Operating Agreement (for LLCs) or Bylaws (for Corporations). These documents outline the management structure, operating procedures, and the roles and responsibilities of the members or shareholders. They help prevent disputes and clarify the governance of your business.

Step 6: Obtain an EIN

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is necessary for tax purposes. It’s issued by the IRS and is used to identify your business entity. You can apply for an EIN online through the IRS website. The process is free and takes only a few minutes. An EIN is required if you plan to hire employees, open a business bank account, or file taxes.

Step 7: Register for State Taxes

If your business will be selling goods or services, you’ll need to register for a sales tax permit with the Tennessee Department of Revenue. Depending on your business type, you may also need to register for other state taxes, such as franchise and excise taxes.

Step 8: Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits

Tennessee may require certain businesses to obtain specific licenses or permits before they can operate legally. The type of licenses required will depend on your business’s industry and location. Check with local county or city authorities for any additional licensing requirements.

Step 9: File Annual Reports

Both LLCs and Corporations in Tennessee are required to file annual reports with the Secretary of State. The report is due on the first day of the fourth month following the business’s fiscal year-end. Failure to file the annual report can result in penalties and the potential dissolution of your business.

Conclusion

Forming an LLC or Corporation in Tennessee involves several key steps, from choosing your business structure and name to filing the necessary documents and obtaining the required permits. By carefully following these steps and understanding the legal requirements, you can successfully establish your business and ensure it operates smoothly within the state of Tennessee. Always consider consulting with an attorney or a business advisor to ensure full compliance and to address any specific legal concerns related to your business.

If you questions or need help, reach out! We provide business formation services as well as other legal needs for the entrepreneur. The initial consultation is no charge.

Read More
Forming and LLC in Tennessee

What EXACTLY is an LLC, Anyway?

If you’re starting a business or are generally aware of business names, you’ve no doubt heard and seen the acronym LLC before. But what is it? And if you’re starting a business, is this particular entity option right for you?

To start, LLC stands for Limited Liability Company, and it is what it says it is, with some added advantages one doesn’t find with the many alternative business options.

An LLC offers the dual benefits of limited liability for its partners (called members) along with operational flexibility. The members are protected from their business creditors by the LLC merely existing.

This is important in a variety of ways and differs greatly from the corporation. The corporation is a stodgy relic for most small business owners. Unless you’re raising millions in startup capital out of the gate, there are few benefits to the corporate form. There are officer requirements. Meetings must be had. Minutes must be taken. If these formalities aren’t observed and recorded, and your business gets sued, guess what happens to your liability protections?

In that sense, most businesses benefit greatly from the LLC form. An added benefit is customization of the business’ operation, specialized roles of members, and a fully flexible slate for determining how, when, and under what conditions, members receive their distributions from the LLC’s income. A LLC shows other businesses and customers you are to be taken seriously.

If the corporation is a tuxedo, the LLC is business casual, and we live in a business casual world.

Forming an LLC is fast. We can get it done for you within a day. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out!

Read More
FinCen and its Requirements on Small US Businesses

FinCen and Its Requirements on Small Business

Recently, FinCEN has put forward new disclosure requirements that particularly impact new small businesses in the U.S. These requirements are part of a broader effort to increase transparency in business ownership and financial activities, aiming to curb money laundering and the financing of terrorism. Let’s break down what these requirements entail, their significance for new small businesses, and the potential penalties for non-compliance.

New Disclosure Requirements Overview

The crux of these new requirements lies in the need for small businesses to report beneficial ownership information. Specifically, this applies to companies with 20 or fewer full-time employees and revenues or assets not exceeding $5 million. Under these rules, such businesses are mandated to provide details about the individuals who own or control the company (beneficial owners). This information must be filed with FinCEN at the time of company formation and updated as changes occur.

A beneficial owner is typically someone who owns 25% or more of the company’s equity interests or exercises substantial control over the company. The information required includes name, address, date of birth, and an identification number (such as a driver’s license or passport number).

Why It Matters

The move towards greater transparency aims to peel back the layers of anonymity that have made it easier for individuals to use businesses for illicit purposes, including money laundering and terrorism financing. By having a clear record of who ultimately owns and controls businesses, law enforcement and regulatory agencies can more effectively track the flow of funds and investigate suspicious activities.

For new small businesses, this means there’s an additional layer of regulatory compliance to navigate. It’s not just about registering your business anymore; it’s also about providing and maintaining up-to-date information on who’s behind it. This could affect everything from the initial setup process to how changes in ownership or control structures are managed down the line.

Potential Penalties for Non-Compliance

Non-compliance with these requirements can carry significant penalties. FinCEN has outlined that businesses failing to provide accurate information or update their beneficial ownership records as necessary could face both civil and criminal penalties. Civil penalties may include fines, while criminal penalties could lead to imprisonment for individuals responsible for the non-compliance.

The specifics of these penalties highlight the seriousness with which the U.S. government is approaching the issue of financial transparency and the fight against money laundering and terrorism financing. It underscores the importance for new small businesses to ensure they understand and comply with these requirements.

What New Small Businesses Need to Do

For new small businesses, compliance means taking several key steps:

  1. Understand the Requirements: First, it’s crucial to grasp what the disclosure requirements are and how they apply to your business. This might involve consulting with legal counsel or compliance experts.
  2. Collect and Report Information: Collect beneficial ownership information as part of your business formation process and report this information to FinCEN.
  3. Maintain Records: Keep records of the beneficial ownership information and ensure they are updated any time there is a significant change in ownership or control.
  4. Stay Informed: Regulations can evolve, so it’s vital to stay informed about any changes to the disclosure requirements or related compliance obligations.

Conclusion

The new FinCEN disclosure requirements represent a significant shift in the regulatory landscape for new small businesses in the U.S. They’re part of a global trend towards greater transparency in business ownership, aimed at combating financial crimes. While these requirements introduce additional compliance burdens for small businesses, they also play a crucial role in safeguarding the integrity of the financial system and national security. Understanding these requirements and ensuring compliance is not just about avoiding penalties; it’s about contributing to the broader fight against illicit financial activities. For new small businesses, navigating these requirements with diligence and foresight will be key to their successful establishment and operation in a transparent and compliant manner.

 

We can help you navigate these new federal requirements and ensure your business complies with them. We encourage you to each out to us for a consultation now before these new regulations complicate your ongoing business operations.

Read More
SaaS Terms and Conditions

The Crucial Elements of a SaaS Terms and Conditions

In the fast-paced world of Software as a Service (SaaS), the Terms and Conditions (Terms) isn’t just a legal requirement; it’s the bedrock upon which customer relationships are built. A well-drafted Terms provides clarity, sets expectations, and establishes the legal framework for your service. Conversely, a poorly constructed Terms can lead to confusion, legal challenges, and eroded trust. This post delves into the vital aspects of a SaaS Terms, the pitfalls of inadequate drafting, and the undeniable value of legal expertise in sculpting a document that protects both the service provider and its users.

SaaS Terms and Conditions Header

Understanding the Importance of Your SaaS Terms and Conditions

Terms for a SaaS product is more than just a checkbox for compliance; it’s a comprehensive agreement that outlines the rights and responsibilities of both the service provider and the users. It covers critical aspects such as usage rights, subscription models, payment terms, termination conditions, and data handling practices. Essentially, it governs every interaction between your service and your customers.

Key Components of SaaS Terms and Conditions

  1. Usage Rights and Restrictions: Clearly defines what users can and cannot do with your service, including any restrictions on sharing accounts or using the service for certain types of activities.
  2. Subscription Models and Payment Terms: Details on the subscription plans available, payment schedules, renewal and cancellation policies, and how changes to subscription terms are handled.
  3. Data Protection and Privacy: Outlines how user data is collected, used, protected, and shared, in compliance with data protection laws like GDPR or CCPA.
  4. Intellectual Property Rights: Clarifies the ownership of the service’s intellectual property and the extent of the license granted to users.
  5. Termination and Suspension: Conditions under which a user’s account may be terminated or suspended, including any breach of terms.
  6. Limitation of Liability and Disclaimer of Warranties: Limits your liability in cases and Conditions failures or data loss and disclaims warranties to the extent permitted by law.
  7. Dispute Resolution: Specifies the process for resolving disputes, including the jurisdiction and choice of law.

The Pitfalls of Poorly Drafted Terms

  1. Legal and Financial Risks: Ambiguities or omissions in Terms can lead to legal disputes, financial losses, and penalties, especially if the Terms fail to comply with applicable laws.
  2. User Distrust: Terms that are difficult to understand, or that includes hidden clauses not in the user’s favor, can erode trust and deter potential customers.
  3. Operational Inefficiencies: Inadequate terms may lead to misuse of the service, resource strain, and increased support costs to address issues stemming from unclear policies.
  4. Compliance Failures: Terms that do not properly address data protection, privacy laws, or other regulatory requirements can result in compliance failures and significant penalties.

The Role of Legal Expertise

Drafting effective SaaS Terms is not a task for the inexperienced. It requires a nuanced understanding of contract law, intellectual property rights, privacy laws, and the specific operational realities of SaaS. Legal experts play a critical role in:

  1. Ensuring Compliance: Lawyers can ensure that your Terms complies with all relevant laws and regulations, including international laws if you serve customers across borders.
  2. Balancing Clarity and Protection: Legal professionals can help strike the right balance between making your Terms accessible to users and ensuring it provides comprehensive protection for your business.
  3. Anticipating Future Issues: Experienced lawyers can foresee potential legal challenges and address them within the Terms, reducing the risk of disputes.
  4. Customizing to Your Business Needs: Every SaaS business is unique, and a generic Terms template won’t address specific business models, features, or risks. Legal expertise ensures your Terms are tailored to your specific business needs. A CRM is not a logistics service, for example, and the needs are different.

Best Practices for Drafting a SaaS Terms and Conditions

  1. Prioritize Clarity and Accessibility: Use clear, concise language and avoid legal jargon where possible. Consider including a summary of key points in plain language.
  2. Update Regularly: Laws, technologies, and business models evolve. Regularly review and update your Terms to reflect these changes and ensure ongoing compliance.
  3. Be Transparent About Changes: When updating your Terms, communicate changes to your users in advance and explain the reasons behind them.
  4. Include Effective Date: Always include the effective date of the current version of your Terms to avoid confusion about which terms apply.
  5. Seek Feedback: Consider getting feedback on your Terms from users or a focus group to ensure it’s understandable and addresses user concerns.

 

Read More

A Comprehensive Guide to Selling Your Business: Navigating the Legal Waters

Nashville business attorneys

Selling a business is no small feat. It’s a complex process filled with legal intricacies, financial considerations, and strategic decisions. As a sophisticated business owner, you’re already aware that the devil is in the details, especially when it comes to legal matters. This guide aims to walk you through the essential legal considerations and steps involved in selling your business, from the initial consultation with an attorney to the moment you close the sale. Buckle up; we’re diving deep into the technical jargon and legal nitty-gritty.

1. Initial Consultation with an Attorney

A. Understanding Your Legal Standing

Before you even list your business for sale, it’s crucial to consult with an attorney experienced in business transactions. This initial step is not merely procedural; it’s foundational. Your attorney will help you understand your legal standing, identify any potential legal hurdles, and begin the process of due diligence. This includes reviewing your business’s organizational documents, contracts, leases, and any litigation history. The goal here is to ensure that your business is in good legal health before proceeding with a sale.

B. Navigating Regulatory Compliance

Depending on your industry, there may be specific regulatory compliance issues that need to be addressed. This could include transferring licenses and permits or ensuring that the sale won’t violate any antitrust laws. Your attorney will guide you through these regulatory mazes to ensure that your sale isn’t derailed by legal oversights.

2. Preparing Your Business for Sale

A. Due Diligence

Due diligence is a two-way street. Just as a potential buyer will scrutinize your business, you need to ensure that your legal and financial documents are in order. This includes preparing a comprehensive list of assets, intellectual property, existing contracts, employee agreements, and any other legal documents that will be reviewed by the buyer. Transparency here is key; undisclosed liabilities can come back to haunt you.

B. Valuation and Financial Analysis

Understanding the true value of your business is critical. This isn’t just about your revenue or assets; it’s about understanding your market position, competitive advantage, and growth potential. A financial analyst or business valuator, working in concert with your legal team, can help determine a fair market value for your business.

3. Marketing Your Business and Finding a Buyer

A. Confidentiality Agreements

Before you even begin negotiations with potential buyers, confidentiality agreements (non-disclosure agreements, or NDAs) are essential. These legal documents ensure that the information shared during the sale process is not used against you or disclosed publicly. Your attorney will draft these agreements to protect your business information rigorously.

B. Letters of Intent

Once a prospective buyer shows serious interest, the next step is often a letter of intent (LOI). This document outlines the preliminary terms of the sale, including the purchase price, payment terms, and any contingencies. While not always legally binding in all aspects, it sets the stage for negotiations and due diligence by the buyer. Your attorney will ensure that the LOI protects your interests and doesn’t lock you into unfavorable terms.

4. Negotiating the Sale

A. Purchase Agreement

The heart of the sale is the purchase agreement. This detailed document covers every aspect of the sale, including representations and warranties, conditions to closing, indemnification provisions, and the mechanics of the transfer of ownership. Crafting a purchase agreement is a balancing act, requiring skilled negotiation to protect your interests while keeping the deal on track.

B. Working with Multiple Advisors

Throughout the negotiation process, it’s not uncommon to work with a team of advisors beyond your attorney, including financial advisors, accountants, and industry consultants. These professionals provide valuable insights into the financial, tax, and strategic implications of the sale. Coordination among your advisors is crucial to ensure that the legal terms align with your financial and business objectives.

5. Closing the Sale

A. Closing Documents and Final Steps

Closing the sale involves a flurry of documents and final legal steps. This includes not only the execution of the purchase agreement but also ancillary documents such as bills of sale, assignments, and, if applicable, lease agreements. Your attorney plays a critical role in ensuring that all legal documents accurately reflect the agreed terms and that the transfer of ownership is legally effective.

B. Post-Closing Obligations

Even after the ink is dry, there may be post-closing obligations to consider. These can include transitional services agreements, earn-out provisions, or indemnification claims. Understanding your post-closing responsibilities is crucial to ensuring a smooth transition and avoiding future legal complications.

Final Thoughts

Selling your business is a monumental decision that requires careful legal planning and execution. From the initial legal consultation to the final closing of the sale, each step involves complex legal considerations that can significantly impact the outcome of your sale. Working with experienced legal counsel throughout this process not only protects your interests but also ensures that you navigate the legal complexities of selling your business with confidence.

Remember, the goal is not just to sell your business but to do so in a way that reflects its true value, minimizes legal risks, and secures your financial future. With the right legal guidance, you can achieve a successful sale that honors the hard work and dedication you’ve invested in your business.

Read More
how to start your own business

Starting a New Business for the First Time? Here are the Nuts and Bolts!

Absolutely, diving into the world of business can seem overwhelming, but let’s break it down in a friendly and approachable way:

Q: I want to start a business, but I’m not sure where to begin. What are the first steps I should take?

A: First off, kudos to you for taking the exciting step of starting a business! Think of it like planting a seed that will grow into something amazing. Here are your initial steps:

  1. Idea Exploration: What do you love doing? What problems can you solve? Your business can be built around your passion or addressing a need in the market.
  2. Market Research: Look around—see who else is doing something similar. What makes your idea unique? Understanding your potential customers and competitors is like having a treasure map for success.
  3. Business Plan: Think of this as your roadmap. What’s your business about? How will it make money? It doesn’t have to be a novel; just jot down your ideas to guide your journey.
  4. Legal Structure: Choose a business structure. For beginners, an LLC (Limited Liability Company) is like the “easy mode” of business structures. It provides some protection for your personal assets and is relatively simple to set up.
  5. Name Your Baby (Your Business): Pick a name that resonates with your brand. Check if the name is available and consider registering it to make it official. Don’t forget to protect your business name by registering a trademark!
  6. Register Your Business: This is where the legal magic happens. Register with the appropriate authorities, usually at the state level. It’s like giving your business an official ID.
  7. Get an EIN: Think of this as your business’s social security number. It’s necessary for taxes and other official stuff.
  8. Open a Business Bank Account: Keep your business money separate from your personal funds. It’s like having different pockets for different purposes.
  9. Understand Taxes: Don’t let taxes sneak up on you. Research your tax obligations and maybe consult a tax professional for peace of mind.
  10. Start Small, Dream Big: Begin with manageable goals. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a successful business. Celebrate small victories along the way.

Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Friends, mentors, and even the internet are here to help. Embrace the adventure, and you’ll find yourself navigating the world of business like a pro in no time!

Do you have any questions? Let us see if we can help. Chat with us today!

Read More
Valuing Your Business

How Do I Value My Business?

You’ve done well. Your business has grown due to your diligence and hard work. Now it’s time to move on to other endeavors and life pursuits.

But what now? How do you sell a business? How do you value a business?

Besides the obvious requirement of finding a buyer to sell to, you want to determine what that price should be. You deserve to get what’s fair for your capital investment and sweat equity. Not everyone can do what you’ve done and you should be fairly compensated before beginning the next chapter.

Valuing your business for sale is a crucial step in the selling process. Accurately determining the value of your business helps you set a fair asking price, attracts potential buyers, and ensures a successful sale. There are several methods for valuing a business, and you may choose one or a combination of these methods:

  1. Asset-Based Valuation: This method calculates the value of your business based on its tangible and intangible assets. It involves assessing the total value of your company’s assets, including real estate, equipment, inventory, and intellectual property. Subtract any liabilities, such as loans and outstanding bills. This method is commonly used for asset-heavy businesses.
  2. Market-Based Valuation: The market-based approach determines your business’s value by comparing it to similar businesses that have been sold recently. This is often called “comparable sales” or “comps.” To use this method, you need access to data on similar businesses and transactions in your industry. You can then adjust the valuation based on differences in size, location, growth potential, and other factors.
  3. Income-Based Valuation: The income-based approach evaluates your business’s value by considering its ability to generate income or profit. There are two primary methods within this approach:
    • Capitalization of Earnings: This method calculates the value based on the expected future income your business will generate. It involves determining a capitalization rate and applying it to the business’s earnings.
    • Discounted Cash Flow (DCF): DCF involves estimating the future cash flows your business is expected to generate and discounting them to present value. This method is often used for businesses with high growth potential.
  4. Multiple of Revenue or Earnings: This approach is commonly used for businesses in certain industries, such as technology startups or online businesses. It involves using a specific multiple (e.g., 2x revenue or 5x EBITDA) to determine the business’s value based on its revenue or earnings.
  5. Intangible Assets Valuation: For businesses with significant intangible assets, such as patents, trademarks, or brand value, it may be necessary to separately value these assets and add their value to the business’s overall valuation.
  6. Industry-Specific Methods: Some industries have unique methods for valuing businesses. For example, a restaurant’s value may be based on a multiple of its annual sales, while a law firm’s value might be determined by billable hours.
  7. Consult a Business Appraiser: To get an accurate and objective valuation of your business, consider hiring a professional business appraiser. They have the expertise and experience to apply the appropriate valuation methods and provide a well-documented assessment.
  8. Consider Market Conditions: Market conditions, such as supply and demand for businesses in your industry, the economy, and the state of your business when you’re ready to sell, can also influence the final selling price.

Remember that the valuation of a business is not a one-size-fits-all process, and it often requires a combination of methods to arrive at a reasonable and fair value. It’s also important to keep your emotions in check and remain objective during the valuation process to ensure a successful sale.

 

Have more questions? Are you looking to sell your corporation, LLC, or partnership? Let us help.

Read More
Benefits to forming an LLC in Tennessee

Benefits to Forming an LLC in Tennessee

Forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Tennessee can offer several advantages to entrepreneurs and business owners. Here are some of the key benefits to forming an LLC in Tennessee

  1. Limited Liability Protection: One of the primary benefits of an LLC is that it provides limited liability protection to its members (owners). This means that personal assets are typically shielded from the business’s debts and legal obligations. In the event of a lawsuit or financial troubles, your personal assets are generally protected.
  2. Simplicity and Flexibility: Forming and operating an LLC in Tennessee is relatively straightforward. You have flexibility in structuring the management and ownership of the company. It’s a suitable choice for small businesses and startups.
  3. Pass-Through Taxation: LLCs are taxed as pass-through entities by default. This means that business profits and losses “pass through” to the individual members, who report them on their personal tax returns. This avoids double taxation, which is a disadvantage of C-corporations.
  4. Tax Benefits: Tennessee offers a favorable tax environment for businesses. There is no state income tax on wages and salaries, and the state has a relatively low sales tax rate. This can be advantageous for both the business and its owners.
  5. Asset Protection: LLCs can provide an additional layer of asset protection. Creditors of the LLC generally cannot pursue the personal assets of the members, making it a good choice for businesses that may face liability risks.
  6. Professional Credibility: Forming an LLC can enhance the professional image of your business. It conveys a sense of permanence and legitimacy, which can be important when dealing with customers, suppliers, and investors.
  7. Management Flexibility: LLCs allow for a flexible management structure. You can choose to manage the company yourself, or you can designate a manager or managers to handle day-to-day operations. This is particularly helpful if you want to involve passive investors.
  8. Privacy: Tennessee law allows for a high degree of privacy. You don’t need to publicly disclose the names of members or managers when you file your Articles of Organization, which can be beneficial for businesses seeking confidentiality.
  9. Transferability of Ownership: LLCs provide flexibility in transferring ownership interests. You can easily admit new members or sell ownership interests with the consent of the existing members, as outlined in the operating agreement.
  10. Estate Planning: LLCs can be useful for estate planning purposes. You can transfer ownership interests to family members or heirs, which can help with wealth transfer and minimize estate taxes.
  11. Access to Financing: Forming an LLC can make it easier to attract investment and secure loans or grants. Many investors and lenders prefer dealing with structured business entities like LLCs.

It’s important to note that while forming an LLC in Tennessee offers these advantages and benefits, it also comes with certain responsibilities, such as filing annual reports, maintaining corporate records, and adhering to state regulations. It’s advisable to consult with a legal or financial professional to determine if an LLC is the right choice for your specific business needs and goals.

The benefits to forming an LLC in Tennessee are many. If you’re thinking of getting your business off the ground, an LLC in Tennessee is likely the best way to do it.

 

More questions? Feel free to reach out to us!


Read More
incorporating in Tennessee

Incorporating Your Business in Tennessee

To incorporate a business in Tennessee, you need to follow a specific set of steps and meet various legal requirements. Here’s an overview of the incorporation process:

  1. Choose a Business Name:
    • Select a unique and distinguishable name for your corporation. You can check the availability of your chosen name on the Tennessee Secretary of State’s website.
  2. Designate a Registered Agent:
    • Appoint a registered agent who will be responsible for receiving legal documents and official correspondence on behalf of your corporation. The agent must have a physical address in Tennessee.
  3. File Articles of Incorporation:
    • Prepare and file Articles of Incorporation with the Tennessee Secretary of State. You can do this online through the Secretary of State’s website or by submitting a paper form. The articles typically include information about your business name, registered agent, principal office address, and the purpose of your corporation.
  4. Create Corporate Bylaws:
    • Draft corporate bylaws that outline the internal rules and regulations governing your corporation. Bylaws typically cover issues such as shareholder meetings, director responsibilities, and corporate governance.
  5. Hold an Organizational Meeting:
    • After filing the Articles of Incorporation, hold an initial organizational meeting of the board of directors to adopt bylaws, elect officers, and take care of other organizational matters.
  6. Obtain an EIN:
    • Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This unique number is required for tax purposes and opening a business bank account.
  7. Register for State Taxes:
    • Depending on the nature of your business, you may need to register for state taxes with the Tennessee Department of Revenue. This includes sales tax, use tax, and any other applicable state taxes.
  8. File Initial Reports:
    • Some states, including Tennessee, require corporations to file an initial report shortly after incorporation. This report provides additional information about the corporation’s directors, officers, and shareholders.
  9. Comply with Ongoing Requirements:
    • Your corporation must comply with various ongoing requirements, such as filing annual reports, paying state taxes, and maintaining corporate records.
  10. Foreign Corporations Doing Business in Tennessee:
  • If your corporation is already incorporated in another state but wants to do business in Tennessee, you may need to register as a foreign corporation with the Tennessee Secretary of State.

It’s advisable to consult with an attorney or a business advisor who can guide you through the specific steps and legal requirements for your unique business situation. Additionally, the Tennessee Secretary of State’s website provides detailed information and forms to assist with the incorporation process.


 

Read More

Electing S Status for Your Corporation


Electing S corporation (S corp) status is a tax-related decision that certain eligible businesses can make in the United States. S corp status provides several tax advantages, but it also comes with specific requirements and restrictions. Here’s an overview of the process and considerations for electing S status:

  1. Eligibility Requirements:

To qualify for S corporation status, your business must meet the following criteria:

Be a domestic corporation (organized in the United States).

Have only allowable shareholders, which generally include individuals, certain trusts, and estates. Other corporations, partnerships, or non-resident alien shareholders are generally not allowed.

Have no more than 100 shareholders.

Have only one class of stock.

Not be an ineligible corporation (certain financial institutions, insurance companies, and some other entities are ineligible).

  1. Initial Corporation Formation:

If your business is not already organized as a corporation, you’ll need to incorporate it under state law by filing the necessary documents with the state’s secretary of state.

  1. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN):

Your business should have an EIN, also known as a federal tax identification number, which is required for tax purposes.

  1. Hold an Initial Shareholders’ Meeting:

If you haven’t already done so, you should hold an initial shareholders’ meeting to adopt corporate bylaws, appoint officers, and issue stock certificates.

  1. File Form 2553:

To elect S corporation status, you must file Form 2553, “Election by a Small Business Corporation,” with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). You can generally do this within two months and 15 days after the beginning of the tax year for which the election is to take effect, or at any time during the preceding tax year.

All eligible shareholders must sign the election form.

  1. Maintain Compliance:

Once you’ve elected S corporation status, you must meet ongoing compliance requirements, including filing annual tax returns (Form 1120S) and providing K-1 statements to shareholders.

Follow state and federal rules for S corporations, including limitations on stock ownership, distribution of profits, and other regulations.

  1. Enjoy Tax Benefits:

S corporations are “pass-through” entities for tax purposes, meaning that business income and losses flow through to the individual shareholders’ personal tax returns. This avoids double taxation at the corporate and individual levels.

Shareholders can potentially benefit from lower self-employment taxes compared to sole proprietors or partners.

  1. Considerations:

While S corp status can offer tax advantages, it may not be suitable for every business. Evaluate whether the benefits outweigh the restrictions and compliance requirements.

Consult with a tax advisor or attorney to ensure that electing S status is the right choice for your business and that you meet all eligibility requirements.


Read More