A: LLC formation means the process by which one sets up an LLC. The process begins with a filing with the state. The filing is usually called Articles of Organization. The LLC must then adopt an Operating Agreement which is much like a partnership agreement. Finally, the LLC will need to obtain an Employer Identification Number from the IRS.

A: Owners of LLCs are called "Members." Members make an initial contribution of cash or other property to the LLC in exchange for their Membership Interests in the LLC. The Members can run the LLC themselves if they like. This is common in LLCs with one or only a few Members. If there are many Members, they may decide to appoint a Manager to run the LLC. Managers can be owners, and vice versa.

A: The LLC has three advantages over other types of business entities: (1) it creates a liability shield for the owner's personal assets in case the business gets sued; (2) the LLC has "pass-through" taxation - in other words, unlike a corporation, there is no tax due at the entity level. All profits and losses "pass through" to the owner and are accounted for on the owner's individual tax return; (3) the LLC is a simple and flexible business structure that does not require as much paperwork as a corporation.

A: In a partnership, each of you is liable for all debts of the partnership. Your personal assets are at risk if anything goes wrong. You should set up as a limited liability company. That way, only the LLC can be liable, and you will not be personally liable. To se up an LLC, you need a filing with the state, an Operating Agreement, and an Employer Identification Number from the IRS. The Operation Agreement is, in effect, a partnership agreement. I offer flat fee packages for these services. Thx. JV