Help & How-To

Legal Issues
Are there any special licenses for doing business online in other countries?
I am looking into starting a company that provides services online to our customers. Our customers are billed monthly for the services. I haven't registered the company legally or anything for fear of doing it wrong. Is an L.L.C. the best way to operate? Do you have to have an EIN? Federal Tax Number?

Asked by zmr2
Posted: Tuesday, January 08, 2008  |  Found in Legal Issues


More answers by Nina Kaufman
Answer by Nina Kaufman

In general, you do not need a specific license to conduct business online.  However, serving overseas customers can involve tricky questions of domestic and international tax law.  Sit yourself down with an attorney and an accountant who are familiar with the ramifications of doing business with foreign customers.  Do not skimp on their services, and be prepared to open your checkbook.  There's no hard and fast answer to the question of "which business form" -- it's a decision that needs to be made after discussing how you intend to run your business, who will own it, and your projected income.  Once the business is formed, you will likely want to obtain an EIN for the entity.

Nina Kaufman has a New York City-based boutique law practice and is president of Wise Counsel Press LLC, which produces legal information products for entrepreneurs. She writes the Making It Legal blog and the Business Law Advisor column for WomenEntrepreneur.com.

Note: This response is for your general information only. Be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your particular situation to get the advice you need.



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