LLCs For Freelancers? Here’s Why It Makes Sense

Let’s discuss the benefits and pros of an LLC formed for freelance work. All this makes it more expensive for a corporation to be run than a sole proprietorship partnership or LLC.

Remember this: An LLC can provide the same benefits you receive from forming corporations as an LLC. You can also do it faster and easier.

For freelancers, which tax benefits are there to setting up an LLC?

An LLC is not likely to provide any tax benefits for freelancers. Many deductions that are available for a single member LLC may be claimed by the sole proprietor. Work as a freelancer, without any LLC or other corporate entity. It is not realistic to expect immediate tax savings when you form an LLC.

An LLC operating contract is a legal document that specifies the ownership and duties of members.

By forming an LLC you receive an Employer Identification Number. Your business will be able to have its own bank account as well as build business credit.

When it comes to starting and running a business, there is so much you can do.

LLCs help protect personal assets.

Costs for an LLC depend on where you are incorporated. A state filing fee is the primary expense of setting up an LLC to support your freelancing writing venture. It can cost anywhere from $40-$500 depending on which state you are in. Our What are the Different Types Of Business Entities? guide has more information.

While you might be comfortable doing everything, it doesn’t necessarily mean you need to think about tax and business law. A professional accountant will help you to set up, run, and manage the finances of your LLC. Their knowledge of tax codes, accounting principles and how to safeguard your hard-earned dollars is invaluable. Although it can be costly, the investment is worthwhile for many.

You are ready to set up an LLC.

In order to be considered an S corporation, the company must pay employees-owners a reasonable wage for the work performed. This is generally not something that you should do until you have a high level of net profits. You should speak to your tax adviser about your unique tax situation. It will impact the time you elect corporate tax treatment.

You can simply report your income/loss on your personal income tax return (IRS 1040). Then, list all your business income and deductible expenses in Schedule C, Profit or loss from Business.

This is because if you begin working freelance without setting up an LLC or corporation, it will be treated as sole proprietorship.

The answer depends. It all depends.

You can put your personal property at risk, if for example you find yourself in trouble with the law. Personal and jointly-owned property such as assets are also at risk.