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Choice of Business Entity: Legal, Financial and Other Non-Tax Concerns

Choice of Business Entity:
Legal, Financial and Other Non-Tax Concerns

BASIC NON-TAX CONSIDERATIONS IN CHOOSING THE CORRECT BUSINESS ENTITY TO OPERATE A BUSINESS

The following provides a basic overview of the major non-tax considerations that clients need to address when determining the proper business entity to conduct their operations.

Legal Liability: Limited Liability Protection for Owners Against Entity Debt

This is one of the most important considerations in determining the proper entity for business operations. Individual investors in business do not want to put their personal wealth at risk due to business operations.

Raising Capital: Capital Structure, Public and Private Offering of Stock

If a client has an eye towards the future in perhaps going public or raising capital these needs have to be considered when determining the proper legal vehicle for operations.

Multiple Classes of Stock Needed or Permitted

If the client is going to need venture capital or funding from various parties, multiple classes of ownership may need to be employed to obtain the best result.

Ease of Transferability of Ownership Interests

Certain interests are easier to dispose of than others and the client may desire restrictions on transferability for business, competitive and practical reasons.

Stockholder, Partnership or Entity Buy-Sell Agreements

Clients often times want to control the corporation and to provide for the disposition of shares or interests in the company in the event of an owner’s death, disability, retirement or separation of service.

Type of Business or Investment Activity Contemplated

The type of business whether it be a regular business, internet business, real estate activity or ultra-hazardous venture must be considered.

State Law: Is there well Established Body of Case Law, Special Tax Breaks or Multiple States of Operation?

Certain states are preferred in certain cases, such as Delaware, for their established body of case law or for tax reasons. Clients need to consider how operating in multiple states need to be handled and which state should be chosen for the state of incorporation.

Warning

This is just an overview and not nearly an all inclusive list as to the non-tax consideration involved in determining the proper legal entity for a business or investment venture.

Remember, the “devil is always in the details,” as there are many technical steps and procedures that need to be taken depending on which entity is ultimately chosen. This gives you an idea as to why most astute business persons retain an experienced tax lawyer to assist them. This is not a task that should be undertaken without an experienced tax attorney who regularly deals with these details, complexities and is familiar with the technical areas of corporate and tax law.

Renice Cox, posted January 19, 2011 “Steve Fromm is a superb lawyer and I highly recommend him! After a terrible experience with a previous lawyer concerning an estate administration, I entered his office feeling very deflated, confused and discouraged. However, I left his office feeling enthusiastic and eager to get down to business. My situation was very unique, I needed his expertise for an array of things and Steve was able to address all of my needs. With a limited time-frame and an extreme amount of obstacles to overcome he worked meticulously, diligently and accomplished extraordinary results. His professionalism is incomparable and I am forever grateful.”

As required by United States Treasury Regulations, you should be aware that this communication is not intended by the sender to be used, and it cannot be used, for the purpose of avoiding penalties under United States federal tax laws.

Disclaimer: This Alert has been prepared and published for informational purposes only and is not offered, nor should be construed, as legal advice. For more information, please see the firm’s full disclaimer.

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Steve Fromm is a superb lawyer and I highly recommend him! After a terrible experience with a previous lawyer concerning an estate administration, I entered his office feeling very deflated, confused and discouraged. However, I left his office feeling enthusiastic and eager to get down to business. My situation was very unique, I needed his expertise for an array of things and Steve was able to address all of my needs. With a limited timeframe and an extreme amount of obstacles to overcome he worked meticulously, diligently and accomplished extraordinary results. His professionalism is incomparable and I am forever grateful.

- Renice Cox

Steven J. Fromm & Associates, P.C.

4.9

Based on 68 reviews

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Jonathan Wright

22:49 05 Jun 20

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20:43 30 May 20

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17:47 24 Feb 20

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21:55 05 Dec 19

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05:27 24 Oct 19

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02:27 04 Aug 19

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20:46 30 May 18

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Steven J Fromm & Associates, PC

5.0

Based on 20 Reviews

Kimberley H.

2023-07-13 16:54:04

I am in California, but I needed some help with some property in PA. Specifically, property related to probate and wills and stuff. Fun times to try and do...

Ren N.

2022-09-08 09:18:34

Ridiculously professional and kind gentlemen Mr Fromm is, regarding my particular situation. Responds within 24 hrs once you schedule a talk with his...

Ren N.

2021-03-20 13:13:45

Excellent, patient, kind first time consult. Called me up over the weekend right after receiving my message over Yelp to try to help me with my issue. He is...

Nicholas A.

2020-04-23 10:58:09

My Wife and I needed extra help navigating tax treaties for our return and Steven J Fromm and Associates were absolutely amazing. They were always available...

Po-Chen W.

2020-02-25 20:42:39

As a foreigner coming from a common law country, navigating the US tax system is very daunting. To clarify my tax situations between my home country and the...

Bill H.

2019-08-06 07:02:40

Steve is the best! From the first moment I spoke to Steve, I knew this was not your typical lawyer...... he was honest, sincere and very knowledgeable with...

Joe D.

2019-04-18 16:42:12

I've never needed to procure the services of an attorney before and really wasn't sure what to expect. I will admit, though, I kind of did wonder if he'd be...

Joe D.

2018-07-10 05:07:25

I've never needed to procure the services of an attorney before and really wasn't sure what to expect. I will admit, though, I kind of did wonder if he'd be...

Ty B.

2018-06-03 06:16:37

He was kind enough to quickly return my consultation request. He was very knowledgeable and informative. He gave me a key information in a brief phone...

John A.

2017-09-04 08:51:41

I have had an exceptionally positive experience working with Steve. He responded immediately to an email inquiry, and made me feel completely comfortable...

Dave S.

2016-10-21 08:53:43

I was very happy with the service provided. I federal expressed Steve the information and within two days, he reached out to me with all the expert advice...