
Photo by Karen Wilson-Bonnar
Determining a business's legal structure is one of the most important decisions an entrepreneur can make when planning a business. Crucial considerations include startup costs, legal issues, tax benefits, ease of formation, and personal liability status. The Entrepreneurial Resource Center's informative links will answer many questions and may reveal other issues that need to be addressed. In this area, competent advice in both the legal and accounting fields is critical.
The county's official website for businesses.
An online media and e-commerce company offering how-to articles, business forms, contracts and agreements, expert advice, blogs, business news, business directory listings, product comparisons, business guides, a small business association, and more.
A national nonprofit trade association representing the rights and interests of franchisees and independent dealers, this site offers extensive publications and resources.
Ideas and resources for small business and home business.
An outline of advantages and disadvantages of six types of business structures, from proprietorship to incorporation, and detailed information on incorporating, including forms and fees.
Study guides and other information on becoming a state licensed contractor.
Information on business permits, licensing, and business and professional registration requirements by type of business and location.
Online professional licensing services provided by the California Department of Consumer Affairs.
An extensive resource for all facets of franchising.
Consumer information and guides about franchises.
Helpful resource for financial and business services. Addresses areas of law, accounting, taxation, and management.
Information and franchise directories.
Information on the franchising industry and the top franchises for sale.
Franchise listings and information.
Links, blogs, directories, newsletters, articles, and resources.
Newsletters, directories, and resources.
A membership organization of franchisers, franchisees, and suppliers, the site offers lists of franchises and information about franchising basics.
Franchise directories and information.
Franchising resources, checklists, and worksheets.
Columns, how-to guides, articles, ask the expert, and recommended resources.
A membership organization offering franchise information.
Respected provider of legal information for consumers and small businesses. Offers section on ownership structures.
An established source of free and confidential small business advice for entrepreneurs.
Access to business counseling, planning, marketing, and training services.
The California State Library, state public libraries, and other resources combine to offer information about marketing, taxes, financial assistance, and the steps needed to start a small business.
A research guide for franchises and franchising, featuring directories, news and journal articles, associations, and websites.
Assistance to entrepreneurs and business owners, from startup to business management, financing, and more.
How-to guide for franchises.
How-to guide for incorporation and legal structures.
The county's official website for business licenses.
Information, incorporation forms, name availability search, and online filings.
Forms and information about licensing and registration for contractors.
Information about licenses, permits, registration, and other services.
Information and forms for General Partnerships.
Access information and download California tax forms for Limited Liability Companies.
Access information and download California tax forms for Limited Liability Partnerships.
Access information and download California tax forms for Limited Partnerships.
Respected provider of legal information for consumers and small businesses. Offers section on obtaining licenses and permits.