Sole Proprietors

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Here's where you'll find information about the simplest business structure for a one-person business, the sole proprietorship. Learn how sole proprietorships are created, who can own a sole proprietorship, how they are taxed, and the risks of running a sole proprietorship.

Sole Proprietorship Basics

Sole Proprietorship Basics
Learn what it means to be a sole proprietor and what local registration, business license, and permit laws you may need to comply with.

50-State Guide to Establishing a Sole Proprietorship
Everything you need to know to become a sole proprietor in any state.

How Sole Proprietors Are Taxed
Find out how pass-through taxation works and learn about other tax issues unique to sole proprietors.

Sole Proprietorships vs. LLCs
What's best? It depends. Read about the pros and cons of these different business structures.

Locating Your Sole Proprietorship at Home
Before getting started, make sure you know what is required to run a business from your home.

Name, Location & Licenses Learn more

Articles and information on choosing your business name, trademark law, license and permit requirements, and finding the right business space.

Your Home Business Learn more

Articles related to home businesses, including the home office deduction, zoning issues related to your home business, and home business insurance.

FAQs on Sole Proprietors

Sole Proprietorship FAQs

The first quarter's over: what tax forms must I fill out?

Can my husband and I own our business together as a sole proprietorship?

Does a sole proprietor need an Employment Identification Number?

50-State and Federal Small Business Resources Learn more

Links to the most valuable federal and state agency resources for small businesses, including every state's Secretary of State office, official tax agency, and state license and permit information.

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Sole Proprietors