by: Diane Hughes

Most US-based small businesses are getting eaten alive in taxes! That statement has proven itself true over and over again. However, while small business owners want to save money, many are literally afraid of incorporating their companies. The paperwork, the additional reports, having a set payroll amount each month, and other visions swirl around their heads. Those visions could be costing you a ton!

Let me take a few minutes to explain what you need to know about incorporating your business. While it certainly isn't a move every business will want to make, there are definitely some large benefits associated with incorporation.

MYTH

Incorporating means I can't take money whenever I want it.

TRUTH

Yes you can! This is a MYTH that holds a lot of small business owners back from incorporating. If you set a payroll amount for yourself, then decide you want/need more money, you simply write yourself another check and call it an "owner distribution" or a "draw."

MYTH

There's too much paperwork involved once you incorporate. I don't have the time.

TRUTH

There are some additional forms you have to complete. There are some additional taxes you have to pay. HOWEVER... read this carefully... for the three or four extra forms and the cost of the additional taxes, most businesses will still save when compared to counting every dollar you make toward personal income.

MYTH

The only good reason to incorporate is for personal protection. The difference in taxes isn't that much.

TRUTH

While incorporating your business will help protect you from lawsuits and from having your personal property seized, there are more benefits than that. The tax savings can be quite significant.

MYTH

With the attorney's fees, the CPA's fees, the additional income tax returns, and the forms I have to file quarterly, it's just not worth it. I won't really save any money.

TRUTH

Every case is different; however, most small businesses will more than make up the $1500 - $2000 it costs to incorporate within the first six months to one year. Also, most small businesses will save about 50% on taxes after they incorporate. (A qualified CPA will be able to look at your books and give you a more accurate figure.)

MYTH

I'll have to hold meetings and keep lots of records that I don't have time to keep.

TRUTH

Not if you register as a "closed" S-Corporation. This means you have waived the requirement to hold all those meetings and keep all those records.

How Do You Get Specific Details?

Contact a qualified CPA in your local area. He or she can give you detailed information on how much it will cost to set everything up, and - most importantly - how much you will save in taxes.

Incorporation is not something to be afraid of. In fact, if you're one of the many who will save 50% off your taxes in the next year, it's something to go after with a vengeance!

Copyright 2004 Diane Hughes