Are you monetizing your blog? Do you plan to build successful affiliate relationships? Do you want all of those companies to have your personal social security number? Of course not, the alternative is an Employer Identification Number (EIN) which is likened to a Social Security Number for a business. Many people starting out in the world of entrepreneurship rush in and put everything in their own name. The problem with having everything in your personal name is it makes you more susceptible to identity theft. The Internal Revenue Service codes allows all business types the opportunity to obtain an EIN Number even if you don’t have any employees. Many people are afraid to obtain an EIN number because they fear paying additional taxes on their earned income. They forget that the businesses expenses are deductible from the businesses income. However, if you are building your blog and beginning to bring the checks in than you may consider obtaining one as soon as possible.

If you are just starting out with your blog or business and want to test the waters before you dive in. There is a poor man’s way to get your business filed with your state and obtain and EIN Number. It is important to consult an attorney and a tax professional before doing this so that you will have know how this can impact on your specific situation.

1. File for a Fictitious Name Filing with your Secretary of State or Division of Corporations. You may want to use your Domain name or another name that you plan to incorporate with later. It is important to know that a Fictions Name filing does not provide you with exclusive use of your business name.

Click Here For Entree’d’s:  State Division of Corporations

2. Upon receipt of your fictitious name filing go the IRS website and follow the EIN assistant and obtain a  number immediately.

Click Here For: The Internal Revenue Service

3. Establish a bank account in the name of the business even if it is a sole proprietorship for proper accounting for the business.

4. Update your payee information with every advertiser and publisher that you have signed up with so that your social security number is no longer in their system.

This is the absolute easiest way to establish your blog as a business. You also be able to utilize the same number for any additional blogs that you may start. Remember, this should only be used as a tool to get your business off the ground. As your further your undertakings you will want to consult legal counsel and a CPA. This is just one hole in the loop to get you from Entree’ to Empire.

Airess,

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