Choosing the right business structure is one of the most important financial decisions you'll make as a business owner. Whether you're starting your first company, branching out with a subsidiary, or looking to restructure an existing business, the entity you select will influence everything from your taxes to your legal liability. There's no one-size-fits-all solution. The best option depends on the size of your business, how it's funded, and your long-term goals. Before you make a decision, it's smart to understand the basics of the three most common structures: LLCs, S-Corps, and C-Corps.

As your business grows, it's essential to ensure that your business structure continues to align with your goals. Whether you're adding new products, changing ownership, or simply evolving, the structure of your business can have significant tax and operational implications. Let's explore some of the most common business structures—Hobby, Sole Proprietorship, LLC, S-Corporation, and C-Corporation—and what they mean for your company.

The Washington, D.C. metropolitan area is a dynamic region made up of multiple jurisdictions, each with its own set of tax laws which small businesses must follow. Understanding the tax implications of conducting business across state and local boundaries is vital for all small businesses, but especially those operating in this unique part of the country. Adhering to the different tax filing requirements  in each jurisdiction can be challenging.  For owners of small businesses in DC, there are many state and local tax issues to consider.