Nellie Akalp

A pioneer in the online legal document filing space since 1997, Nellie has helped more than half a million small businesses and licensed professionals start and maintain companies across the United States, most recently through her Inc.5000 recognized company, CorpNet. She closely follows trends in the industry and shares her wealth of knowledge across various CPA and small business communities, establishing Nellie as one of the most prominent influential experts on business startup and compliance matters.

What is a DBA?

Whether that name is legally registered with the business’s home state or not, every business has a legal name. A DBA (or “Doing Business As” is a name that is different from the legal name of the company. A DBA is also referred to as the “trade name,” “assumed...

DBA With Question Marks

California LLC Franchise Tax Waived in First Year

Legislative Update Gives Exemption to New California Limited Liability Companies LLCs registered to do business in California must pay an annual franchise tax of $800 to the state's Franchise Tax Board (FTB). However, to relieve some of the financial pressures amid...

FTP Logo Overlaid on Stack of Money

Everything You Need to Know About Starting a Partnership

What is a Partnership? A partnership is a formal legal entity where two or more parties agree to manage and operate a business and share its profits and losses. Like a sole proprietorship, each partner is responsible for the assets and liabilities of the company....

Partnership Agreement on Clipboard

What Is IRS Form 8832?

IRS Form 8832 (Entity Classification Election) is the form an eligible business entity uses to elect federal income tax treatment other than its default treatment. Eligible entities include: Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) Partnerships (a business entity that...

IRS Form 8832

The Best Business Entity for Professionals

In most states, professionals, such as attorneys, doctors, optometrists, certified public accountants, architects, psychologists, and psychiatrists, have fewer choices when it comes to selecting a legal structure for their businesses. Legal entities (such as...

Female Medical Professional

What You Need to Know About Sole Proprietorships

Sole Proprietorships are the most popular business structure in the U.S., accounting for 76.2% of all businesses, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Many entrepreneurs love Sole Proprietorships because they’re simple to start and compliance requirements are...

Young Female Business Owner

How Should Real Estate Investors Structure Their Businesses?

Owning investment properties can be exciting and lucrative. However, investments in real estate, whether vacation rentals, long-term rentals, or properties for resale, can also create liabilities. That's why it's critical for real estate investors to wisely choose...

Mini Houses on Stacks of Coins

What You Need to Know About Collecting Sales Tax

Before a retailer or service provider can open for business, they first must get approval from the state for sales tax registration. Not all states charge sales tax, and not all products and services are taxable, so it’s essential to learn the facts before you find...

Sales Receipt in Printer

7 Ways Your Business Can Crush It During COVID-19

Every business owner hopes to reach the peak of business success. You know, when you’re just crushing it—when smooth operations and growing profits allow you to breathe a satisfied sigh of contentment and pride. This year that feeling may seem farther from your...

Successful Woman Celebrating

Post-COVID Marketing Strategies for Accountants

Clients need their accountants more than ever in our post-COVID-19 world. Whether it’s getting ready for the extended tax deadline, figuring out how to utilize government relief funds or how to start a new business in a recession, accountants need to make sure...

Marketing Strategy Concept Image

Marketing in the New Normal of COVID-19

Things are different today due to the global coronavirus pandemic. While we may eventually get back to some version of normal, when that happens is subject to much debate. COVID-19 changed how business gets done, from suppliers and distribution to sales and...

Marketing Message Illustration

How To Safely Reopen Your Small Business to the Public

As the country makes plans to reopen restaurants, retail, public buildings, and schools, your topmost concern should be the safety and well-being of workers and customers alike. Your reopened business will be scrutinized and the measures you take to reopen safely...

Store Safety Sign for Social Distancing.

Business Ideas for People Who Love the Outdoors

If you love the outdoors and have always wanted to start a business relating to your outdoor passion, now is a great time to take advantage of the country’s desire for outside activities. Here are some outdoor business ideas and trends you need to know to get you running on the right path to business success.

Ice Cream Bicycle Cart

What Does It Mean to Have Multiple Trademark Owners?

One of the many risks business owners face is one that rarely comes to mind—but could put your business in a dangerous position. We’re talking about trademark protection for your intellectual property. A trademark is a word, phrase, name, or symbol that identifies...

Trademark written in wooden cubes

Outsourcing to Get Back to Business

Making plans to get your business back on track post-coronavirus pandemic? Here are five responsibilities you should consider outsourcing so you can devote more of your time and energy to the areas where you are most needed. 1. Website Updates and Maintenance Your...

businessman with clipboard at warehouse

10 Mistakes to Avoid When It Comes to the CARES Act Funding Relief

With tons of misinformation swirling out there, you may be afraid of making a crucial mistake when it comes to applying for and receiving CARES Act relief funding. Here are 10 mistakes to avoid. Application Mistakes 1. Not Being Prepared Any delay in your...

Guy Holding His Head

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