Limited Liability Company (LLC) is a way to structure your business. It combines corporations with partnerships. However, you don’t have to have a company with employees and partnerships to LLC for a voiceover business.
LLC for a Voiceover Business
Every state has different stipulations for a LLC. You need to check with your local business administration to learn more about the laws in your state. Basically, you need to have a business that is separate from your personal life. You can’t just take your earnings from voiceover projects and place it in your pocket. You should have a separate business account, and then have a way to pay yourself. This way you truly have a business that pays someone (you).
A LLC protects your personal life. If your business were sued for some reason, your personal assets would be protected. Your business would be the only thing affected. You could end up losing your business if something were to happen, but your personal finances would remain intact.
Many people believe they don’t need business insurance if they have a LLC for a voiceover business. This is untrue. A LLC does not protect people when they are sued for:
- Negligence or irresponsibility
- Illegal matters such as copyright violations even when it is done without awareness
- A guarantee is signed for a loan
- Mixing personal expenses with business ones
A LLC for a voiceover business brings a level of prestige to a voiceover business, but it is not absolutely needed. Most people get it when they want to make their business seem bigger and better than the competition. It is when they want to grow their business to the next level in which they have a partner or they just want to separate their business from the rest of their life.
This means that you do not need or should have a LLC. Actually, you would be better off with business insurance first, and then get a LLC later if you still feel as though you want to make that as part of your brand. It does cost $200 a year to keep, so you will have to factor that into your business finances.
Getting the LLC
If you decide you do want to have a LLC for your business, you can do so easily online. It used to involve seeking an attorney’s assistance with the paperwork, but with the forms available on the Internet, there’s no reason to use one. They are simple to complete and submit. Most people can do it in a matter of minutes. It really is that simple.
Whether you decide to get a LLC, business insurance, or both, know that you are doing something good for your business and personal life. You are protecting yourself from being sued, which is becoming quite common in the United States. While you can take the chance, it’s not worth it when there are ways to protect yourself. Do what you need to do, so you can run your business wisely with confidence.