Sole proprietorship is the simpliest and the most common business structure. There is one owner, the sole proprietor. The business is unincorporated, and there is no legal distinction between the business and the owner.

Sole proprietorship is the easy and inexpensive way to start a business, and an owner can usually create one on his/her own. There are no formal action required to create or start a sole proprietorship. However, business owners still need to obtain any necessary license, permits, and doing business as (DBA) name, if they are operating under a name other than their own. The owner is entitled to all the business's profit and has complete control over the business and makes all decisions, including business strategy, concept, plans, and operations.

Tax filing for sole proprietorship is fairly easy. A sole proprietorship files a Schedule C, along with their Form 1040 that owner already file every year. Self-employment income is subject to self-employment tax.

Sole proprietorship has no legal separation between the proprietor and the business entity. Personal liability for all debts and obligations of the business is the owner's responsibility. The risk extends to any liabilities incurred as a result of the actions of employees. It is often difficult to invest in a sole proprietorship because the business owner can't sell business stock, and financial institutions are sometimes hesitant to lend or give credit because of a perceived lack of credibility if the business fails. On the other hand, having complete control over the business can sometimes be a burden. The proprietor is the one ultimately responsible for the growth and success. But, nevertheless the failure of the business.

As we are helping some of our small business clients establish and grow, one of the most common topic that may come up is the type of entity that is right for their business. What is right for the business from the start may not be the right business later on, so this is a great topic to revisit from time to time with your client as they expand and grow their business. This article will explore the main business entity options you can discuss with your client when deciding what type of business entity is best for their business.

The most common business entity types are:

• Sole proprietorship
• Limited Liability Company
• Partnerships
• Corporations

Business entity to also consider:

• Non-profits
• Cooperative
• Trust and Land Trusts