Legal Question in Business Law in Missouri

I am private music lesson teacher in the Saint Louis area and have a question about contracts. I would like to have a contract to protect myself and payment, but I have heard that if I have a contract then I would also have to set myself up and register as a business which would require me to pay taxes on my earnings, however as of now I do not pull enough income from this job to merit paying taxes on it, also I am typically paid in cash or check written out to my personal account. If I create a contract regarding student expectations and payment will I legally be required to pursue setting myself up as a legitimate business?


Asked on 12/22/10, 1:29 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys
Patrick Tracy Patrick J. Tracy, Esq, P.E.,

That is not necessarily true. Contracts do give protection to you as the teacher they also give responsibilities. Check with an attorney in your area to assist you.

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Answered on 12/27/10, 1:38 pm
Kevin B. Murphy Franchise Foundations, APC

As a Franchise Attorney I can tell you this. You're operating a business and this requires a business license. This is a relatively easy thing to obtain. You would only pay taxes to the extent the income from your business exceeds its expenses. If you're business shows a loss, this can offset other income. Do it the right way. Consult with a good business or franchise attorney in your area for specific advice.

Mr. Franchise - Kevin B. Murphy, B.S., M.B.A., J.D.

Franchise Foundations, a Professional Corporation

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Answered on 12/27/10, 2:19 pm
Jalesia McQueen McQueen Awad LLC

I am an attorney in your area and I can say that you seem to have 2 issues. One is tax and the other is setup of your business. The previous attorney is right that you are operating a business and potentially may need a license to do so. I know that sounds scary, but it many times is very easy and painless. I, of course, would need to know the specifics of your business and setup to advise. I give free consultations. Let me know if you need some help.

Sincerely,

Jalesia "Jasha" F. McQueen Gadberry

P: 314-238-1368

F: 314-238-1250

[email protected]

MCQUEEN GADBERRY LLC

10805 Sunset Office Drive, Suite 300

St. Louis, Missouri 63127

www.mcqueengadberry.com

The information you obtain in this email is NOT intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls, letters and electronic mail. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.

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Answered on 12/27/10, 3:01 pm


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