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Women-Owned Business Certifications

There are several certifications available for women-owned businesses that can help gain visibility, access funding, and open doors for networking and business opportunities. The primary certification programs are: 1. WBENC (Women's Business Enterprise National Council) Certification Overview: The WBENC certification is one of the most widely recognized certifications for women-owned...

Profit Sharing Plans vs. Phantom Equity: Key Differences and Considerations

Both profit-sharing plans and phantom equity offer ways for businesses to incentivize employees and share financial success. However, they operate differently in terms of structure, taxation, and legal implications. Below, we explore their key differences and considerations for choosing the right option for your business. Key Differences Between Profit Sharing...

Understanding the Difference Between a PLLC and an LLC in Massachusetts

When forming a business, professionals in Massachusetts often wonder whether they need a Professional Limited Liability Company (PLLC) or a standard Limited Liability Company (LLC). While both structures offer limited liability protection and flexible management, they serve different purposes, particularly when it comes to licensed professionals. What is a Limited...

UPDATE (1/5/2025): Government Appeals Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) Injunction to the U.S. Supreme Court

Well never a dull day as we follow the cases and ongoing changes to compliance requirements for the CTA.  After the back and forth regarding an injunction temporarily halting (reinstating and halting again) certain reporting requirements by a federal court, the U.S. government has appealed this injunction to the U.S....

Corp Transparency Act BOI Filing Requirement on Hold (updated as of 3/18/25)

PLEASE check the FINCEN website for the most up to date guidance. For specific questions check the detailed FAQs on the FinCEN website. NOTE: As of 3/2/2025 The Treasury Department has announced that, with respect to the Corporate Transparency Act, not only will it not enforce any penalties or fines associated with...

Accredited Investors

Accredited Investors: An Overview The term "accredited investor" is commonly used in financial circles, but what does it actually mean? In essence, an accredited investor is an individual or entity that meets specific criteria set forth by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), making them eligible to participate in certain...

Startup Fundraising: SAFE v Convertible Note

When startups seek early-stage funding, they often turn to various financial instruments to secure capital from investors. Two popular options are a Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE) and Convertible Notes. Each of these instruments has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, making it essential for entrepreneurs to understand...

Does a single-member LLC in MA require an operating agreement?

While it is not legally required to have an operating agreement for a single member LLC in many jurisdictions, it is still highly recommended to create one. An operating agreement is a legal document that outlines the ownership, management, and operating procedures of an LLC. Here are a few reasons...

Capital Contributions

A "capital contribution" is a contribution of money (cash), property (assets), services, or a promise to contribute one of the aforementioned in the future to a business in exchange for an equity ownership interest.  Each business owner (a member or partner) has a "capital account" which is a line item...

IRS EIN Responsible Party

In order to obtain an EIN with the Internal Revenue Service you must elect a "responsible party".   This is one of the individuals who controls, manages or directs the entity.  It must be a real person, not another entity and the filing will include their individual Taxpayer Identification Number (SSN,...