i need to have a business for the sake of some federal government contract work, but i know nothing about this...yes, i can google, but i thought some of you might be able to better (well, more succinctly) explain the process given that this wouldn't be a "real" business with offices or anything

and yes, i've seen http://www.wakegov.com/businesses/startingabusiness/default.htm

11/1/2011 11:22:06 AM

Check out the following link if youre interested in starting an LLC (or visit the NC Sec State website for links to guides for other types of businesses):

http://www.secretary.state.nc.us/corporations/pdf/LimitedLiabilityCompany.pdf

It's pretty simple: Pick a name, fill out the application, pay $250. Then you'll get tax id numbers and set up a bank account.

I did this a few years back and it was far easier than I expected.

11/1/2011 11:29:28 AM

i didn't realize it was as expensive as $250

that helps...thanks

11/1/2011 11:34:00 AM

Does North Carolina require an operating agreement (I'm too lazy to look it up)??

If they do, find a generic one online or get an attorney to draft you one for a couple hundred bucks. Then file that will your Article of Incorporation when doing your LLC. Everyone thinks that forming an LLC will shield their personal assets in they get sued...but that's not the case. Very easy to "pierce the corporate veil" when all you do is pay a fee and file an LLC.

11/1/2011 11:34:02 AM

yeah, the state is broke, they gotta get money any way that they can. I could have sworn that it was $150 when I paid it just a few years ago.

11/1/2011 11:41:19 AM

If this is just for being a government contractor so they don't withhold your pay, you don't need an LLC.

Just register with the Register of Deeds (http://rod.wakegov.com/index.aspx?page=60) as a sole proprietorship (use the form Certificate of Assumed Name for Sole Proprietorship or Partnership) , and fill out a business license (for Raleigh: http://www.raleighnc.gov/content/Finance/Documents/Business_License.pdf).

DBA form costs $26 bucks.
Business License depends on what you're doing. Lots of exempted businesses, but worst case it's like $100 bucks a year.

11/1/2011 7:31:00 PM

yep, that's basically what I did back in 98 when I started my business. I think back then I was out a grand total of $15.

11/2/2011 10:35:32 AM