Business Formation And Planning

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Clarksville Business Planning Attorneys

Providing Legal Advice And Services For Entrepreneurs

Among the many topics a new business owner needs to think about, laying the right legal foundation for your business should be at the top of the list. It is crucial to choose the proper structure that will protect you from personal liability and offer you the most favorable conditions when it comes to taxes. With four primary business organizations available in the state of Tennessee and several derivatives, it might seem a bit confusing and overwhelming to determine which organization type is best for you. Making the right choice will shape the future of your business. Here are the basic facts about Tennessee business planning and formation, which any entrepreneur should know.

What Types of Basic Business Organizations Are There in Tennessee?

In the state of Tennessee, there are four main types of business organizations: corporations, limited liability companies, partnerships, and sole proprietorships. Each of these comes with benefits and drawbacks. Crow Estate Planning and Probate, PLC has helped many customers with each of these organization types, from formation through to dissolution. Below, we will briefly go over each organization and derivatives to better understand the options available to you when you start a business in Tennessee.

Among the more elaborate business structures, a corporation is considered a legal entity with the power to sue, be sued, purchase property in its name, and enter contracts. While it is owned by its shareholders, it is also considered a separate entity that files its taxes and requires many formalities before its formation and during its existence. One of the most significant advantages of a corporation is the increased level of protection from liability that it provides its shareholders. Business owners can choose to begin a C-Corporation (that pays its own taxes) or an S-Corporation (a pass-through entity that requires shareholders to pay taxes on the business).

LLCs are becoming more popular among business owners because it provides corporate-level liability protection but requires less in terms of legal procedures and formalities. LLCs must be registered with the state. An LLC also provides more favorable taxation at lower rates when compared to a corporation.

If you wish to start a business with a friend, for example, you may be looking at a partnership. Both individuals, who will serve as co-owners, are jointly liable for any obligations or debts resulting from the partnership. Similar to a sole proprietorship, a partnership does not offer liability protection, but it is a simple business structure that does not require major legal formalities.

This is the simplest way to start a business and the most popular across the U.S. No formal legal action is required to create a sole proprietorship (unless you wish to use a fictitious name or need local licenses and permits). This also offers the lowest levels of personal liability insulation, as you and your business are considered to be the same, and you will be using your tax return to file taxes for your sole proprietorship.

Are There Other Options for Formation in Tennessee?

In addition to these, a business can also be classified as a Limited Partnership or Limited Liability Partnership (LLP). The right choice for your business depends on many factors, such as whether you are working by yourself or you have a partner, whether you want to file business income-related taxes on your tax return, or if you want a separate tax return solely for the business, or whether you plan on having employees and what level of liability protection you desire.

While starting something like a sole proprietorship or a partnership does not require the help of a business attorney, it is fundamental for any entrepreneur to consult a Clarksville estate planning attorney to double-check if they are making the right choice or if they should be looking at a different business organization. An attorney can also assist with many other items often needed for a new business, such as contracts, business plans, succession plans, operating agreements, and the like.

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We have assisted many business owners and can offer valuable insights and legal services for anyone wanting to start a business in or near Tennessee and Kentucky. Contact our office and let us help you take the essential first steps.

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    Hear From Our Clients

    Sarah Pichardo

    I cannot recommend Thomas Steelman highly enough! From the very start, he made the entire process of setting up our estate trust absolutely painless. His expertise and clear explanations turned what I expected to be a daunting task into a smooth and stress-free experience.

    Not only did he handle every aspect of our estate trust with great attention to detail, but he (and law firm colleagues) also took care of transferring over our home deeds so we didn’t have to deal with the hassle of going to the county office ourselves. That alone saved us so much time and stress!

    I honestly thought the process was going to cost a small fortune, but I was pleasantly surprised by how reasonable the pricing was. Most importantly, though, Thomas gave us peace of mind knowing that our hard-earned assets are protected and will go exactly where we want them—without placing unnecessary burdens on our loved ones.

    If you’re looking for a knowledgeable and professional estate trust attorney, Thomas and team are the ones to trust. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    Scott Donnellan

    John and his team are professional and do quality work.
     
     
     

    Ariel Ottinger

    John and his team did an amazing job helping my family get our affairs in order. Could not recommend them more!

    Larissa Ottinger

    hey are so prompt to respond and attentive!

    Emily Vick

    Alexandra Hulme was extremely helpful, professional, and punctual! I highly recommend using this firm.

    Austin Joaquin

    Highly recommend for all of your probate needs. Compassionate and professional.

    Glen Peterson

    Wessley at John Crow Estate Planning and Probate, was a pleasure to work with. He was very professional and tentative.

    Travis S

    Highly professional and knowledgeable team! They made the estate planning process straightforward and stress-free. Excellent service, clear communication, and reasonable fees. Would definitely recommend to anyone needing estate or probate assistance!

    Niccole H

    Impressed with their expertise and attention to detail. They handled my probate needs efficiently and with care. Friendly staff and a smooth experience overall—top-notch service!

    Alex Daugherty

    John and his team were efficient, friendly, and helpful for all of my estate planning needs. I would recommend them to anyone!

    Our Locations

    Clarksville

    512 Madison St Suite A, Clarksville, TN 37040

    931-218-7800
    Nashville

    1503 16th Ave S,
    Nashville, TN 37212

    615-558-8002
    Franklin

    321 Billingsly Court Suite 20, Franklin, TN 37067

    (615) 996-1400
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    203 E 9th St,
    Hopkinsville, KY, 42240

    270-569-0006
    Springfield

    719 S Main St Suite 110, Springfield, TN, 37172

    615-914-2184