What’s the Difference: Trademark Vs. Patent

When determining whether a trademark or patent is necessary—and which would be preferable—important considerations include the details of what the business owners are trying to protect, the resources required to draft and submit proper paperwork, and potential obstacles. What Is a Trademark? A trademark is a word, phrase, logo, or design that identifies brands, products, or services. Businesses can obtain both a state- and federal-level… Read More »What’s the Difference: Trademark Vs. Patent

What Is an NDA (Non Disclosure Agreement)?

In situations that require strict confidentiality, businesses and individuals can enter into a nondisclosure agreement (NDA). By signing an NDA, the parties agree that they will not share sensitive or proprietary information with competitors, the media, or the public.  Businesses commonly use NDAs when negotiating or building relationships with other companies. The NDA serves as a form of legal protection and offers enforceable, defined consequences… Read More »What Is an NDA (Non Disclosure Agreement)?

S Corp vs. C Corp: Understanding Business Structure Differences

When incorporating a business, entrepreneurs have several options to choose from, including S corporation (S corp) and C corporation (C corp). Understanding the differences between the two business structures is crucial to making an informed decision for a strong legal foundation for your business.  What Is a C Corp?   A C corp is legally distinct from its shareholders. Accordingly, shareholders are not personally liable for… Read More »S Corp vs. C Corp: Understanding Business Structure Differences

business people negotiating a contract

What Is S Corporation vs. LLC? Exploring Definitions and Pros & Cons

A limited liability company (LLC) is a type of business entity formed as a private company in the United States. An S corporation (or S corp) is a corporation that elects to be taxed as a pass-through entity (the business does not pay income tax at the entity level; the owners do). While they are different, they have some similarities. Both protect the owners from… Read More »What Is S Corporation vs. LLC? Exploring Definitions and Pros & Cons

S Corp vs Sole Proprietorship

New businesses must be classified for legal and tax purposes. Many start unincorporated, often as a partnership or sole proprietorship. However, entrepreneurs may opt to incorporate their business for better legal protection or tax reasons.  What Is a Sole Proprietorship?  Unless additional paperwork is filed, new businesses default to an unincorporated legal structure, like sole proprietorships or partnerships depending on the number of business owners… Read More »S Corp vs Sole Proprietorship

How to Write a Patent

Patent writing is a long, detailed process that must adhere to U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) regulations. Some creators choose to hire a legal professional to write and file their patents. However, the cost of hiring a patent attorney or agent can be prohibitive for new or small businesses. Instead, some business owners may opt to do it themselves. What Is a Patent? A… Read More »How to Write a Patent

Do You Need a Business License To Sell on Etsy?

Many people have hobbies like creating crafts, art, furniture, holiday décor, and other decorative or functional items. What do they do if they decide to start selling those products on the popular site Etsy, for example? Does Etsy Require a Business License? Anyone may sign up to sell items on Etsy. All they need is a name for the shop, a valid payment method, and… Read More »Do You Need a Business License To Sell on Etsy?

What is a Utility Patent: Definition, Filing & Review Process

Designing a new product or improving an existing product are popular ways for business owners to break into a new market or expand their current market share. Many opt to patent their ideas to prevent competition, ultimately protecting their business endeavors. The type of patent a business owner needs will depend on the product in question: either a design patent or utility patent. What Is… Read More »What is a Utility Patent: Definition, Filing & Review Process

Utility Patent vs. Design Patent: What Does Each Protect?

Intellectual property concerns are commonly one of the first obstacles entrepreneurs address when starting their business. Trademarks, copyrights, and patents are different ways to protect different types of intellectual property. Patents grant entrepreneurs exclusivity to manufacture, market, and sell something without competition for a set amount of time. What Is a Utility Patent? A utility patent legally protects what a single invention does, how it… Read More »Utility Patent vs. Design Patent: What Does Each Protect?

What Must an Entrepreneur Do After Creating a Business Plan?

Many successful entrepreneurs started with a solid business plan detailing factors of their business such as marketing, funding, legal considerations, and operations. But then what must an entrepreneur do to turn their vision into reality? What’s Included in a Business Plan? A business plan is a formal document that justifies the idea with research, defines the steps to starting the business, and details the growth… Read More »What Must an Entrepreneur Do After Creating a Business Plan?