Get Legal!GET LEGAL... this is very important!... Depending on what state or province you live in.. you MUST make yourself a legal business if you want to do things right!.. You could just claim self employment under your own name, but you look much more professional (in my opinion of course!) if you have a registered legal business name...
Check with your local business development in your area, and ask LOTS OF QUESTIONS!.. Allow yourself some time for this... spend a day at least on getting yourself setup properly.. Get all the information that is required.. sometimes you can apply for a business name online.. this all depends on your local laws.. Get a business bank account set up once you have your business paperwork in order, this way you can keep better track of your business income and expenses.. rather than lumping it in with your own personal account..
Make sure everything is explained to you about what taxes are to be collected etc.. If you keep good records, you are less likely to have trouble at tax time!.. This is when you decide whether its time to take that hobby to the business level.. it is worth spending the time on this part of your business journey....
It wouldn't hurt to invest in an hour of a business accountants time. Make a list of questions you want answered and take their advice right from the start of your business.
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