How to Start a Photography Business In Illinois
There are a few different steps to starting a photography business in the state of Illinois.
Getting started- The state of Illinois has a website about starting a business in Illinois here: Illinois Business Startup Guide
1. Choose your business structure.
Decide what structure you want for your business– Many small business owners are sole-proprietors. Find out more about business structures here: Illinois Business Startup Guide Illinois Business Startup Guide
2. Register your new photography business name.
You need to register your business name with your county clerk’s office. Here is a link to county clerk offices in Illinois: County Clerk Addresses
If you need help choosing a business name: How To Choose A Photography Business Name
3. Register your photography business with Illinois.
You can register your business with the state of Illinois here: http://tax.illinois.gov/Businesses/register.htm
4. Open a Business Account with your Bank.
You will need to open a separate checking account for your photography business with your new business name.
5. Find out about taxes and hire an accountant.
You may want to file your own taxes if you are a small company. As you grow, it will be easier to have an accountant do the work. Be sure to research sales tax regulations. More info about taxes here: http://tax.illinois.gov/ and http://www.irs.gov/Businesses/Small-Businesses-&-Self-Employed/Starting-a-Business
6. Decide if you want Liability Insurance.
You might want to consider liability insurance to protect yourself in case of a photography-related incident.
7. See if you need City License.
You may be required to obtain a license operate your photography business in a particular locale, whether you are a resident, or not.