A corporation is a separate and distinct legal entity created under the laws of a state. The individuals who are part of the legal entity consist of shareholders, board of directors, and officers. A corporation can legally enter into contracts, file lawsuits, be a defendant in a lawsuit, pay taxes, and conduct its business. You should consult a legal profession before you decide whether or not to incorporate your business. The following are some of the advantages of operating your business as a corporation: Limited Liability. This is one of the most important reasons to form a corporation. Because a corporation is considered a separate legal entity, the shareholders' personal assets are not at risk for satisfying corporate obligations. Corporate Tax Treatment. A corporation pays taxes separately from its shareholders at the corporate rate. The shareholders pay personal income taxes on payments they receive from the corporation in salaries, bonuses, and dividends. Stock Incentives. Corporations can offer stock options or stock to their employees as an employee benefit that can make employees more loyal to the company. Employee Benefits. A stockholder who is also an employee of the corporation may be eligible for reimbursement or a tax deduction for health and life insurance, travel, and other expenses. Structure. Corporations consist of shareholders who are the owners of a corporation, and they elect the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors hires officers. The officers usually are CEO and/or president, vice president, treasurer, and a secretary. If the corporation is large, there may also be a Chief Financial Officer, a Chief Human Resources Officer, and other management officers. All officers are required to follow the standards and policies set by the Board of Directors. The officers manage the daily operations of the corporation. Easy to Attract Investors. The corporation can sell its stock to investors which gives them an ownership interest in the corporation and makes it more attractive to investors. Uninterrupted Existence. A corporation still exists even if the shareholders, the Board, and the officers leave the business. Transferable Shares. Corporate stock can generally be freely bought and sold, because the corporation is not affected by who the shareholders are. If shareholders die or sell their stock, the corporation continues to exist and is unchanged. Of course, the transfer of stock may be regulated or restricted by federal or state securities laws. For more information about these and other important business topics and for legal consultation, please visit our website at http://www.IndigoBusinessSolutions.net The future of your business starts here. Copyright 2006 Indigo Business Solutions. All rights reserved. |
