Start an LLC. Limit your liability.
You don’t need an LLC to be a legitimate business. However, if you want limited liability, then you need the LL in LLC, and that takes more than an LLC registration.
What is an LLC?
An LLC is a simple and flexible type of business that protects the owners from their business’s liabilities. Liabilities include a lawsuit, a tax problem, or a debt. How do you create an LLC that protects you?
3 Things you need for a strong LLC
LLC Registration
Operating Agreement
Observe Corporate Formalities
Understanding the 3 steps to a strong LLC
1. Registering your LLC
Our attorney Matthew Nuzum said, “A monkey could do it.” Anyone can register an LLC. So what is an LLC registration? When you file (or “register”) your business as an LLC with the state, the government recognizes your business. That makes it easier for you if you end up in court or if you want to apply for government-run assistance, etc. To register, you must submit your business’s articles of incorporation (some states help you create this document if you fill out their form). Articles of incorporation list details about your business: owner/s, registered agent, name, address, etc. LLC registration is only $50 with the state of Iowa. In addition, you can find Iowa LLC formation instructions listed in Act 489.201 on the Secretary of State Website. Once your business is registered, the state and the world know that your business exists! If you don’t want to worry about registering your own LLC, Surge Business Law offers this service as a part of both our advanced Launch 360 Plan and our flat fee basic options under “New Business Formation” on our pricing page. We register LLCs for businesses all the time, and we would love to help you get your Iowa LLC registered too.
2. Write your Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is a legal document that controls how your LLC will be managed. Since the government views your business as its own entity – like a person – you need to treat it as it’s own entity. This contract between the owner/s and the business explains the how you will interact. This contract should be customized to give you the most protection. When you work with Surge, we’ll help you understand how to form a strong operating agreement that covers the details.
3. Observe Corporate Formalities
Although it sounds like an intimidating legal phrase, it’s boils down to treating your business like it’s own entity. Corporate Formalities are rules that you follow to keep your business strong. Here are some examples of Corporate Formalities: You have a business bank account separate from your personal bank account. You sign contracts the right way, otherwise you as you might be personally liable. We also want the businesses to deal with their own liabilities with the appropriate insurance. Businesses should be covered under business insurance and not under the owner’s personal insurance policy. (Note: We help refer people to the appropriate insurance companies.) Also, you avoid committing fraud, which unfortunately, can can be done unintentionally. It doesn’t have to be hard. We give you clear and simple steps to ensure you observe corporate formalities
Start an Iowa LLC with Surge
Don’t take our word for it. Hear what others have to say!
Can’t afford a full payment?
We making it easy. If you can’t afford a full payment, we offer the Launch 360 Plan. In addition to $360/mo for 5 months, it gives you advice and resources for a strong start.
SEe Launch 360 Pricing
“Why would I pay Surge When I could do it Myself? I can file my own LLC.”
Great question! You can file your own LLC with the state, but you won’t get the other parts that make up a strong LLC, like an operating agreement customization and corporate formality assistance. All of our LLC formation packages include:
- A standard document guide packed with startup info
- LLC registration with the state
- Customized Operating Agreement formation
- Help to observe corporate formalities
- Setup with the IRS for an EIN tax ID
- Legal and business advice
You can trust our advice and services because…
We’re experienced. And more than that, we’re experienced in a business you want to start. We’ve started and served them before. Second, we’re credible because we’re a law firm. Matthew Nuzum, our owner, is not only a lawyer, he has owned multiple businesses, and he’s from a family of business owners. Matthew has also studied why businesses fail so that he can help you avoid these common problems.
Benefits of using our service
- You get our focus on small business risks – We know your business risks intimately and can help you prepare for them before a problem happens.
- You get clear and simple pricing – This is powerful! You know upfront what you will be spending and have the option of payments with the Launch 360 Plan.
- You get our specialization in starting new businesses – We only do one thing – serve small and growing businesses. Since you have our undivided attention, you will have peace of mind knowing that the advice and services we offer are reliable. We’ll help you surge your business’s success faster!
Frequently
Asked
Questions
Do you have another question? Contact us! We want to help you protect your business started.
Call To Schedule: 515-994-0404
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Resources
Downloadable
FREE Business Starting Guide
Our business plan helps you get clear on where to start with financials first so that you manage risks, enjoy your job, and keep the doors open for years to come.
Our Team helps you
Start a Strong LLC today!
If you want to start a business that protects your personal assets, is prepared for risks, and positions you for long-term success, schedule a free meeting with an expert on the Surge team today.
