what kind a corporation should a sole practioner attorney form in alabama

by Evie Oberbrunner 10 min read

How to form a corporation in Alabama?

Alabama Code 1975, § 10-4-390(a) (Supp. 1986), provides that “[e]very individual who renders professional services as an employee of a ... professional corporation shall be liable for any negligent or wrongful act or omission in which he personally participates to the same extent as if he rendered such services as a sole practitioner.”

Are there any pllcs in Alabama?

to powers of attorney under Alabama law. The practitioner should use the forms at the end of this article as a guide and should adapt the forms to meet the client’s particular situation. An excellent discussion of Alabama law regarding powers of attorneys and additional forms are found in Chapter 324 of the Southeast Transaction Guide.

Do you have to form a professional corporation in Arkansas?

An attorney may designate his practice by the name “John Doe & Associates” only if he has at least one associated attorney in his employ. A sole practitioner may use the term “John Doe Law Firm,” “John Doe Law Office,” or “Law Offices of John Doe.”. Firm names and letterhead are governed by the provisions of Rule 7.5 read in ...

Can lawyers and accountants form a professional corporation?

How to Form an Alabama Corporation. Use our free guide below to form a corporation in Alabama: Step 1: Create a Name For Your Alabama Corporation; Step 2: Choose an Alabama Registered Agent; Step 3: Choose Your Alabama Corporation’s Initial Directors; Step 4: File a Certificate of Incorporation; Or, use a professional service: ZenBusiness ($39 + state fee)

Can a law firm be an LLC in Alabama?

In view of the above, it is the opinion of the Disciplinary Commission of the Alabama State Bar that Alabama lawyers may organize a law firm in the form of a limited liability company. ... Special Rules for Limited Liability Companies Performing Professional Services.

Does Alabama require a pllc?

Alabama allows professionals to form both PLLCs and PCs, and both PLLCs and PCs provide liability protection for, respectively, their members or shareholders. Because the protection is essentially the same for both PLLCs and PCs, but PLLCs are simpler to create and operate, many professionals prefer the PLLC structure.

Is LLC or S Corp better?

What Is the Difference Between an LLC and an S Corp? A limited liability company is easier to establish and has fewer regulatory requirements than other corporations. LLCs allow for personal liability protection, which means creditors cannot go after the owner's personal assets.

What type of business organization is a law firm?

Limited Liability Company Most states allow law firms to operate as LLCs or as professional limited liability companies.Feb 23, 2015

Does Alabama require articles of organization?

The document required to form an LLC in Alabama is called the Articles of Organization. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Alabama's requirements include: Registered agent.

Do you have to renew LLC every year in Alabama?

The State of Alabama requires you to file an annual report as part of your required state Business Privilege Tax return.

Who pays more taxes LLC or S corp?

LLCs. As an LLC owner, you'll incur steep self employment taxes on all net earnings from your business, whereas an S corporation classification would allow you to only pay those taxes on the salary you take from your company. However, itemized deductions could make an LLC a more lucrative choice for tax purposes.Jan 25, 2022

Why would you choose an S corporation?

Asset protection. One major advantage of an S corporation is that it provides owners limited liability protection, regardless of its tax status. Limited liability protection means that the owners' personal assets are shielded from the claims of business creditors—whether the claims arise from contracts or litigation.

Should my LLC be an S corp?

Although being taxed like an S corporation is probably chosen the least often by small business owners, it is an option. For some LLCs and their owners, this can actually provide a tax savings, particularly if the LLC operates an active trade or business and the payroll taxes on the owner or owners is high.

Can law firm be S Corp?

Most law firms can meet these requirements to qualify for the S corp election, but maintaining that status to minimize taxes requires an additional step: paying owners a fair salary. ... But the IRS requires that shareholders of S corporations who also perform services for those businesses receive a salary.Jul 14, 2021

Can a law firm be an INC?

Can law firms incorporate? Yes, but the answer to what type of incorporation options are available will vary based on the state. For example, many states allow a solo attorney to form a PLLC, or a Professional LLC.

What is better LLC or sole proprietorship?

One of the key benefits of an LLC versus the sole proprietorship is that a member's liability is limited to the amount of their investment in the LLC. Therefore, a member is not personally liable for the debts of the LLC. ... If you treat the LLC the way you would a sole proprietorship, you lose the liability protections.Jul 21, 2021

What is a registered agent in Alabama?

A registered agent is a person or entity that accepts tax and legal documents on behalf of your LLC or corporation. Your registered agent can be an individual resident of the state or a company that’s legally authorized to represent businesses in Alabama.

How long do you have to reserve your business name in Alabama?

Name Reservation. In Alabama, you must reserve your business name before forming a corporation. This must be done at least two weeks prior to formation for mailed filings, but can be completed at the time of formation for online filings.

What is the role of a director in a corporation?

The directors of a corporation are in charge of the adoption, amendment, and repeal of bylaws as well as the supervision, election, and removal of officers. Later you will prepare an “Incorporator Statement” with complete names and addresses of each director and keep it in your corporate records book.

How long does it take to elect an S corporation?

The form must be signed by all shareholders and must be filed within two months and 15 days after the start of the initial tax year.

What do I need to operate a corporation?

To operate your corporation, you must comply with federal, state, and local government regulations. The details of business licenses and permits vary from state to state, so make sure to research carefully and plan accordingly.

What is an S corp?

An S corporation (S corp) is an incorporated business that is taxed as a pass-through entity. This means that S corps do not pay federal taxes on their business income. Instead, the business profits "pass-through" to the owners of the S corp, who are also known as shareholders.

What is an organizational meeting?

An organizational meeting is the first official meeting of your corporation. These are some of the things that are discussed in a typical organizational meeting: Taking attendance to show you have a quorum (minimum number needed) Appointing temporary officers, chairmen, secretary, etc. Adoption of the bylaws.

Who may become a shareholder in a professional corporation?

A licensed individual or group of individuals authorized to render the same professional services may organize and become a shareholder or shareholders of a professional corporation for the purpose of rendering professional service. One or more of the licensed individuals shall be the incorporators of the professional corporation.

What is the abbreviation for a professional corporation?

The name of a professional corporation must include the phrase “professional corporation” or the abbreviation “P.C.”, or the word “chartered”, or the abbreviation “Chtd”. The name may not contain the word “company”, “incorporated”, “corporation”, or “limited”, or an abbreviation of those words.

What does "limited" mean in a company?

The word “Limited” may be abbreviated as “Ltd.” and the word “Company” may be abbreviated as “Co.”) “Professional service” means any type of professional service which may be legally performed only pursuant to a license or other legally mandated personal authorization.

What is a PLLC?

Professional (s) may form a PLLC to provide a professional service. A PLLC name may consist of the full or last name of one or more of its members or, if not prohibited by law or the profession concerned, the LLC may adopt a fictitious name.

Is a PLLC the same as an LLC?

PLLCs are governed by the same laws as LLCs except that the PLLC is subject to regulation by licensing boards. The professional limited liability company name must contain the words “professional limited liability company,” “professional limited company,” “PLC,” or “PLLC.”.

What is professional service entity?

A professional service entity (professional corporation, professional LLC, or professional LLP) may be organized for the sole purpose of providing professional services to the public. Only the following professionals may form a practice as a professional service entity: Certified Public Accountants. Architects.

Can a licensed individual become a shareholder?

Licensed individuals may incorporate and become shareholders of a professional corporation to provide professional services. A professional service is any type of personal service to the public which requires a license or other legal authorization. This includes the services rendered by certified public accountants, registered public accountants, chiropractors, optometrists, dentists, osteopaths, podiatrists, architects, veterinarians, doctors of medicine, doctors of dentistry, physicians and surgeons, attorneys at law and life insurance agents.

What is a professional corporation?

A professional corporation or PC is one variation of a corporation. Licensed professionals who want to incorporate their practice can form a PC. However, the shareholders, directors, and officers must belong to the same profession.

What is a licensed professional in California?

In California, licensed professionals are limited to forming a sole proprietorship, general partnership, or professional corporation (PC). One advantage of an LLC is that each owner—also called a member—has limited liability, which means they are not personally liable for the financial obligations of the LLC.

Why is it important to choose the right business structure?

It's important to choose the right business structure to protect your business from unforeseen legal and tax consequences. When choosing between an LLC and a PC, check the state statutes to make sure the legal entity can operate in your state.

Do LLCs have to pay state taxes?

LLCs are not required to pay state taxes in most states—again, check your state statutes. The owner pays state taxes on their personal tax return. A few states require LLCs to also pay state taxes. In addition, some states impose a fee, often called an annual registration fee, franchise tax, or renewal fee.

What is the tax rate for a C corporation in Florida?

A C Corporation is also subject to Florida’s state corporate income tax at a rate of 5.5%.

Do C corporations pay dividends?

Many professional C Corporations attempt to avoid distributing dividends by paying all income as compensation (because although it is still taxable to the recipient employee/shareholder, the C corporation gets a deduction for such compensation, resulting in one-layer of taxation).

Why are sole proprietorships so popular?

Because no corporate entity or other legal device is employed to operate the day to day business, sole proprietorships are very popular with solo practitioners. The sole proprietor files his taxes on Schedule C on his individual income tax return.

How long do attorneys need to keep financial records?

While the Statute of Limitations for the Internal Revenue Service to audit a person is generally three years (subject to fraud and other exceptions) it is suggested that an attorney or firm keep their financial records for at least 10 years.

What happens if a taxpayer evades taxes?

If the original auditor or tax examiner determines that a taxpayer willfully attempted to evade taxes, the taxpayer’s case may be referred to the IRS Criminal Investigation Division. The case will then be assigned to one or more special agents.

When can a small employer claim a tax credit?

An eligible small employer may claim a tax credit in tax years beginning after 2009 if it makes nonelective contributions that pay for at least one-half of the cost of health insurance premiums for the coverage of its participating employees. [4]

What are the rules of the tax court?

The Tax Court operates under its own Rules of Practice and Procedure (the rules) and under the Federal Rules of Evidence applicable in trials without a jury in the U.S. District Court of the District of Columbia. If there is no applicable Tax Court rule in a given instance, the court or the judge before whom a matter is pending may prescribe the procedure, giving particular weight to the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure to the extent that they are adaptable to the matter at hand. This latitude includes the power to correct clerical errors. The Tax Court rules and amendments of existing rules generally will take effect only after the public has been given notice and an opportunity for comment.

Do partnerships have to file 1065?

A partnership is required to file a Form 1065 tax return. The profits of the partnership flow through to each partner, and each partner’s share of profits and losses is reported on Schedule K-1. General Partners also have risk of exposure to the debts and liabilities of the business.

What is 401(k) plan?

A 401 (k) plan is a type of tax-qualified deferred compensation plan in which an employee can elect to have the employer contribute a portion of his or her cash wages to the plan on a pretax basis . Generally, these deferred wages (commonly referred to as elective contributions) are not subject to income tax withholding at the time of deferral, and they are not reflected on your Form 1040 since they were not included in the taxable wages on your Form W-2. However, they are included as wages subject to social security, Medicare, and federal unemployment taxes.

Bryant Keith Martin

Although some of these urge limited liablity as a reason to incorporate, none of them expressly states the major factor, which is that the corp will not protect you from professional liability for your own acts. Only your e.& o. policy will do that.

Christopher Nunes

The company vs. sole proprietorship issue is a balance of cost versus benefit. The company structure provides an added level of insurance, insulating your personal assets from potential lawsuits (if followed properly), and segments your professional finances away from your personal finances.

Dana Howard Shultz

You need to form a professional corporation. Please see the links below to relevant sections of the CA Business and Professions Code.#N#Disclaimer: This information does not constitute legal advice and does not establish an attorney-client relationship.

Alaska

  1. Professional(s) may incorporate as professional corporation; need a certificate from regulatory board first
  2. A professional corporation’s name must include the last name of at least one shareholder unless the licensing board allows otherwise. The corporate name must have the ending “Corporation,” “Incorpo...
  1. Professional(s) may incorporate as professional corporation; need a certificate from regulatory board first
  2. A professional corporation’s name must include the last name of at least one shareholder unless the licensing board allows otherwise. The corporate name must have the ending “Corporation,” “Incorpo...
  3. Alaska doesn’t currently have any statutes that allow for the creation of PLLCs.

Alabama

  1. Professional corporations may be organized by professional(s)
  2. A professional corporation’s name must contain the words “professional corporation” or the abbreviation “P.C.” The name may not contain any word or phrase that indicates or implies that the corpora...
  3. No PLLCs in Alabama, but an LLC may perform professional services as long as the member …
  1. Professional corporations may be organized by professional(s)
  2. A professional corporation’s name must contain the words “professional corporation” or the abbreviation “P.C.” The name may not contain any word or phrase that indicates or implies that the corpora...
  3. No PLLCs in Alabama, but an LLC may perform professional services as long as the member or employee rendering the service is licensed.

Arkansas

  1. Professional(s) may form professional corporations
  2. The corporate name must contain either the names of one or more of the shareholders, the names of one or more deceased former shareholders, or deceased members of a predecessor organization, or any...
  3. State statute provides for medical or dental LLCs. These entities must have a certificate of re…
  1. Professional(s) may form professional corporations
  2. The corporate name must contain either the names of one or more of the shareholders, the names of one or more deceased former shareholders, or deceased members of a predecessor organization, or any...
  3. State statute provides for medical or dental LLCs. These entities must have a certificate of registration from the state medical board.
  4. The name of an LLC which performs a professional service must have the words “Professional Limited Liability Company,” “Professional Limited Company,” or the abbreviations “P.L.L.C.,” “P.L.C.,” “PL...

Arizona

  1. Professional(s) may incorporate a professional corporation to render professional services.
  2. The name of an Arizona professional corporation must:
  3. Professional(s) may form a PLLC to provide a professional service.
  4. A PLLC name may consist of the full or last name of one or more of its members or, if not prohibited by law or the profession concerned, the LLC may adopt a fictitious name. The PLL…
  1. Professional(s) may incorporate a professional corporation to render professional services.
  2. The name of an Arizona professional corporation must:
  3. Professional(s) may form a PLLC to provide a professional service.
  4. A PLLC name may consist of the full or last name of one or more of its members or, if not prohibited by law or the profession concerned, the LLC may adopt a fictitious name. The PLLC name shall con...

California

  1. You can form a professional corporation, but professional LLCs are not allowed. LLCs may not provide professional services. Professional services include any type of services that require a license...
  2. A professional corporation may have any name that complies with the rules of the professional licensing rules. Appropriate corporate name endings include “Professional Corporation” or “PC”
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Colorado

  1. A professional service entity (professional corporation, professional LLC, or professional LLP) may be organized for the sole purpose of providing professional services to the public. Only the foll...
  2. A professional corporation may use the term “professional corporation” or the abbreviations “pc” or “p.c.” A professional LLC may use the term “professional company” or the abbreviation…
  1. A professional service entity (professional corporation, professional LLC, or professional LLP) may be organized for the sole purpose of providing professional services to the public. Only the foll...
  2. A professional corporation may use the term “professional corporation” or the abbreviations “pc” or “p.c.” A professional LLC may use the term “professional company” or the abbreviations “pllc” or...

Connecticut

  1. A professional corporation is organized for the sole and specific purpose of rendering professional service. Professional corporations have only licensed individuals as its shareholders.
  2. The name of a professional corporation must contain the words “professional corporation” or the abbreviation “P.C.” The name must also contain a word or words descriptive of the profes…
  1. A professional corporation is organized for the sole and specific purpose of rendering professional service. Professional corporations have only licensed individuals as its shareholders.
  2. The name of a professional corporation must contain the words “professional corporation” or the abbreviation “P.C.” The name must also contain a word or words descriptive of the professional servic...
  3. Professional(s) may form an LLC to provide professional services if the member(s) are licensed to render the professional service.
  4. LLC names must include the words “Limited Liability Company” or the abbreviations “L.L.C.” or “LLC”. The word “Limited” may be abbreviated as “Ltd.” and the word “Company” may be abbr…

Delaware

  1. Licensed individual(s) may organize and become the shareholder(s) of a professional corporation to provide professional services.
  2. The name of a professional corporation must contain either a word or words descriptive of the professional service to be rendered by the corporation or shall contain the last names of 1 or more of...
  1. Licensed individual(s) may organize and become the shareholder(s) of a professional corporation to provide professional services.
  2. The name of a professional corporation must contain either a word or words descriptive of the professional service to be rendered by the corporation or shall contain the last names of 1 or more of...
  3. Delaware does not have professional LLCs.

District of Columbia

  1. A professional corporation may be organized to provide professional services including those services provided by certified public accountants, attorneys, architects, practitioners of the healing a...
  2. The name of a professional corporation must include the phrase “professional corporation” or the abbreviation “P.C.”, or the word “chartered”, or the abbreviation “Chtd”. The name may not …
  1. A professional corporation may be organized to provide professional services including those services provided by certified public accountants, attorneys, architects, practitioners of the healing a...
  2. The name of a professional corporation must include the phrase “professional corporation” or the abbreviation “P.C.”, or the word “chartered”, or the abbreviation “Chtd”. The name may not contain t...
  3. LLCs may provide professional services.
  4. If any professional services, such those performed by certified public accountants, attorneys, architects, practitioners of the healing arts, dentists, optometrists, podiatrists, or professional en...

Florida

  1. You may choose a Professional Corporation or a Professional Limited Liability Company to provide professional services.
  2. No special naming restrictions are required in Florida.
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