Legal Question in Entertainment Law in District of Columbia
Starting Indie Label Should I Incorporate?
I am a D.C, solo hip-hop artist about to finish my cd and am starting an Indie label for myself & to promote other artist in the D.C. area and was told about Incorporating the label under an LLC, do I need to do this as a start up Indie label to safeguard myself/assets?
3 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Starting Indie Label Should I Incorporate?
you can forma llc or an INC..there sre some things you need to do when you are forming a record label.
Re: Starting Indie Label Should I Incorporate?
First of all, an LLC is not "incorporated"--a corporation and a limit liability company are two distinct forms of business entities, each of which has advantages and disadvantages. Either of them provides a measure of protection but you would be wise to speak with a competent attorney in your area to help you decide which is appropriate for what you need. An accountant can help you decide whether this is the right time for you to form a company and how you should fund it.
Re: Starting Indie Label Should I Incorporate?
You don't have to, but it may help with taxes, protect against legal liability, create the perception in others of a "real" business rather than one person or a hobby, and enahnce the ability to grow into a larger business, among other benefits. Against this you must weight the costs of forming the LLC or S or C corporation.
See my website for more information and then contact me if you wish to incorporate (or form an LLC - a consultation with a business lawyer and/or tax accountant is advised to determine which entity best serves your needs).
Legal advice provided to clients only; Licensed in Califoria and Illinois.