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The Small Business Center has all of the tools you need to start your own business. If you already have your own business, we have a number of tools available to enhance your online presence. Check out our collection of business software for purchase, and our free eBusiness tools, all available for instant download.
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Many small businesses believe that they cannot compete with larger companies. This is not true.
However, having a website is essential in order to keep up with the competition. More and more people today are shopping online rather than going out to the store. It is an invaluable convenience to order online from the comfort of one's home.
We can help you get your business online, and in just 3 Easy Steps!
Find out how.
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Business Structure Basics
Starting a business can be a very exciting experience. It is very important to plan carefully, and to make sure that you start a business doing something that you love, because you will be your own boss and you will have no one to answer to but yourself. That's the whole point of having your own business in the first place, right?
There are several different types of business structures, and deciding on the best one that will suit your business is a critical choice to have to make. Some people seek legal advice before deciding on the type of business structure, which is highly recommended. However legal advice may be costly in some cases, so it is best to do some homework yourself before you pursue that route. Here we will briefly go over the most common types of business structures that many entrepreneurs and small businesses pursue. Keep in mind that we are not lawyers, and it is best to ultimately seek professional legal advice before undertaking such a huge responsibility that could dramatically affect your future.
Sole Proprietorship
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- Owned by one individual.
- The individual and the business are one entity, and the business taxes are filed with personal taxes.
- Involves the least amount of paperwork.
- Key Disadvantage : the individual is completely liable, and personal assets could be lost in case legal disputes arise.
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Partnership
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- Two or more persons owns a percentage of the business.
- Business taxes are filed along with each partner's personal taxes.
- Business losses may be recorded for certain tax breaks.
- Key Disadvantage : All partners are equally liable if the business goes under.
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Limited Liability Corporation (LLC)
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Owned by two or more persons.
The business and its owners are treated as separate entities, and taxes must be filed separately.
The business receives certain tax breaks because it is a corporation.
Key Disadvantage : There is still some limited personal liability involved.
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Better Internet Bureau
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Displaying the "Better Internet Bureau" seal of approval on your pages shows that your site is a safe place to do business. Add credibility and make more sales.
Get your site certified now!
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Business "How-To" Guides
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Over 100 "How-To" Guides, avaialable for download in the software library!
Some of the titles include:
- How to Raise Money for Your Business
- How to Get Free Radio Advertising for your Business
- How to start a Money Brokerage Business
- ...and more!
Click here to visit the Software Library!
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Incorporate Your Business
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Corpnet: Low cost effective method of legally incorporating your business. Only $49 plus state filing fees.
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Legal Counsel
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It is highly recommended to obtain legal advice before entering into any business contract. Below are some recommended websites:
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Financing and Credit
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D-U-N-S Number
The first step towards building your business credit, is to have a D-U-N-S number for your business. A D-U-N-S number is a unique 9-digit identifier issued by Dunn & Bradstreet© that is often used by lenders in order to determine a business's credit worthiness.
Request a D-U-N-S number
PayPal Credit
Don't have all the funds right now for major purchases on this website? No problem! With Paypal credit, you can finance your website and have 6 mos to pay!
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Advertising Methods
The key to successful advertising is to always advertise. Never stop. Literally. Word of mouth is the best and most successful way to get your business name out, not to mention absolutely FREE! Other ways to advertise include:
- Search engine submissions
- Local newspaper
- Flyers
- Brochures
- Email by way of opt-in mailing lists
- Newsgroups
- Chat rooms
- Auctions
- Ezines
- Local radio stations
- Pay-per-click search engines
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Check Your Website Status Now