Topic

Starting a business

Sole proprietor working in their home office.
Freelance

Self-employed individuals and sole proprietors share similar tax obligations and risks because their personal assets are tied to their business, but not all self-employed business owners are sole...

Independent contractor looking at their business license.
Independent contractors
Whether you need a business license as an independent contractor depends on your profession and where you work. Some licenses also require you to carry business insurance.
A closeup of a person working on a laptop and graphs.
Consulting
There are several factors you’ll need to consider to help you start a consulting business, including creating a business plan, addressing risks, and protecting yourself with the right insurance.
Female web designer working with two monitors
IT & technology professionals
Starting a web design business can be exciting and lucrative, but it can pose challenges. Learn how to succeed in this competitive field.
Two people in helmets working on a roof.
Construction
The construction industry is full of risks. However, there are several types of construction insurance that can keep your small business protected from the most common hazards.
Self-employed business owner looking at business details.
Independent contractors

Anyone who works but isn’t an employee is self-employed. This includes independent contractors, although not everyone who is self-employed is an independent contractor. The difference depends on...

General contractor measuring a structure for a project.
Construction

Becoming a general contractor requires a combination of education and hands-on work experience. You might start off in a particular building trade and work your way up to general contracting, or...

Aspiring business owner developing a tech startup business plan
IT & technology professionals
A thorough business plan is a critical element of a tech startup's path to success and can help you secure funding. Here's what to include when writing out the launch plans for your startup.
A cluttered workspace shown from above.
IT & technology professionals
Every tech startup faces business risks, from funding issues to legal troubles. Here are some of the most common startup business risks for tech companies and how to protect against them.
Two women examine code together on a computer display.
IT & technology professionals
If your startup wants to attract top talent, secure funding, or eventually go public, it's a good idea to have directors and officers insurance.
A lightbulb resting on a work desk.
IT & technology professionals
When intellectual property is used without permission, having the right insurance and implementing a few best practices could prevent someone from hurting your business or reputation.
Woman with a laptop drinking coffee
Starting a business

Both sole proprietor and independent contractor are terms that describe self-employed people. Which one applies to your business depends on the taxation structure and your professional relationships...

IT consultant conferring with client in server room.
IT & technology professionals
Learning how to become an IT consultant can provide numerous opportunities for IT professionals who are interested in starting a business.
A view of people working on computers through a glass wall.
IT & technology professionals
Researching competitors, finding funding sources, and protecting yourself with contracts and business insurance are just a few of the steps you should take when you start an IT services business.
A person mops in front of a caution wet floor sign.
Cleaning services

General liability insurance, workers' compensation insurance, property insurance, and janitorial bonds keep your cleaning business safe from financial liabilities. Learn more about the types of...

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