It can be tempting to simply use your personal name as your business name when you’re a freelancer. You are, after all, your own brand. Even if you are a solo entrepreneur, choosing a name for your company might be advantageous for a few reasons.
In the beginning, a unique business name might make you stand out in a congested market. It may be challenging for potential clients to recall you or find you online if you are a freelance writer and use your own name. A memorable company name that accurately describes your area of expertise can make you more accessible and remembered.
Second, having a business name can help you come out as more serious. Being a sole proprietor is perfectly OK, but using a business name can give the impression that you are a more reputable and established freelancer. This can be crucial if you want to draw in more lucrative clientele or ambitious projects.
A business name might also assist you in keeping your personal and work lives separate. It may be challenging to keep your personal funds separate from your business finances if you operate under your own name. Keeping track of income and expenses is made simpler by using a different business name, which can also protect you from future legal and financial problems.
Are Independent Contractors Sole Proprietors? Freelancers are typically regarded as sole owners. As the only proprietor of your company, you are liable for all obligations and legal problems that may develop. However, freelancers may want to think about using another type of business structure, like an LLC or S corporation. These structures come with extra paperwork and legal requirements, but they also provide greater protection for your personal assets and may have tax advantages. How Do I Launch My Art Business as a Small Business? There are a few steps you should take if you’re an artist wishing to start selling your work as a small business. First, make sure you have a portfolio of your work that demonstrates your writing style and technical proficiency. To showcase your work and make it simple for potential clients to locate you, you can develop a website or social media accounts.
The next step is to decide on your pricing strategy and draft a business plan. When determining prices, you should take into account both your intended profit margin and your costs (such as materials and overhead). As your business expands, a business plan can keep you organized and focused.
Last but not least, confirm that you have the required permissions and permits to sell your artwork. You might require a company license, a tax ID number, or other permits depending on where you live. Always do your research on local requirements and follow any applicable laws or regulations.
Can I Market My Art on the Street? It is acceptable to sell art on the street in many places as long as you have the required licenses and abide by all rules and regulations. To be sure you are not infringing any local regulations, it is crucial to research the rules that apply in your area. Additionally, it’s important considering other choices like online sales or gallery displays as selling your work on the street may not be the most lucrative or sustainable strategy. Does My Art Need Copyright Protection? Technically, as soon as you make a piece of art, it is copyright protected. The U.S. Copyright Office can, however, offer additional legal safeguards and make it simpler to file a lawsuit if someone duplicates or steals your work. A copyright registration can also facilitate the sale of your artwork and raise its perceived value among potential customers.