Professional corporation Wikipedia

Because PCs are endpoints in any business, they are potential gateways for cyberattacks. Understanding PC infrastructure aids in better threat defense. A desktop is a specific type of PC intended for stationary use. PC stands for Personal Computer, which refers to general-purpose computing devices for individuals or business use.

After the LLC is established, it is crucial to get any required company licenses and permissions. To secure the LLC’s separate legal standing and the owners’ liability protection, it is also crucial to keep accurate documents. A „P.C.“ is specifically for licensed professionals, while an LLC (Limited Liability Company) can be formed by anyone. Both provide limited liability protection, but the rules and regulations can differ based on the profession and state laws.

Disadvantages of an LLC

  • A PC is a variation of a corporation, but unlike a traditional corporation, the shareholders must hold a license in the business in which they plan to operate.
  • To keep using the business name after five years, the registration must be renewed.
  • Organizing a professional corporation is not necessarily the only option.
  • They can determine which structure makes the most sense for tax purposes.
  • Every state will have different filing requirements to officially form an LLC or professional corp.

Furthermore, all professionals providing services in a particular state must be licensed to practice in that state. We make it easy for you to get your limited liability company up and running with our LLC formation service. We can provide you with additional resources, tools, and services to answer your questions and keep your business compliant. Depending on your state and your circumstances, you may have other government fees to pay, including fees for business licenses and permits report. Because a PC is owned by licensed professionals, it’s likely that there may be more licensing fees for it than a standard LLC.

It allows them to focus on their work and serve their clients better, all while having a solid legal foundation. LLCs benefit from pass-through taxation by default, allowing income to flow directly to the members’ personal tax returns. LLCs can also elect to be taxed as S or C corporations if desired, offering more control over how income is distributed and taxed. Malpractice insurance is crucial for professionals, and the PC structure might impact coverage requirements. Insurers may require higher coverage limits or specific policy endorsements for PCs. It’s essential to review your malpractice insurance policy with your insurer to ensure adequate coverage.

  • Yes, a PC can employ individuals who are not licensed professionals to perform administrative, support, or other non-professional services.
  • These different classifications might offer more tax benefits for you than a PC, but check with your accountant to confirm which incorporation structure is best for you.
  • If a „P.C.“ is sued, the corporation itself is typically responsible for the legal issues, not the individual owners.
  • „P.C.“ stands for „Professional Corporation.“ It is a type of business structure that allows professionals, like doctors or lawyers, to operate as a corporation while still providing their professional services.
  • This is why professionals often find a professional corporation more advantageous since they are held liable only for their own actions.

Differences Between an LLC and PC

Consulting with legal and financial professionals is crucial to determine the optimal business structure. If a shareholder loses their professional license, they typically must sell their shares in the PC to a qualified professional or the corporation itself, as they are no longer eligible to own shares. The specific procedures for transferring shares are usually outlined in the PC’s bylaws or a shareholder agreement.

PC vs. LLC

The specific professions eligible to form a PC vary by state. Common examples include doctors, dentists, lawyers, accountants, engineers, architects, and psychologists. You need to check your state’s laws to determine if your profession qualifies. The business itself doesn’t pay federal income on the profits, just the individual shareholders. In addition, LLCs have the option to be taxed as a C corporation or an S corporation, which can sometimes be advantageous for larger companies. Like other corporations, PCs are formed at the state level, so requirements such as which professions can form a PC will vary from state to state.

In a PC, profits are taxed either as a traditional C corporation (with potential for double taxation) what does pc stand for in business or an S corporation (pass-through taxation). However, PCs must pay reasonable salaries to professional shareholders before distributing profits, especially under S corp status. A regular corporation can be registered by anyone who meets the criteria.

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While this makes the tax filing process easier, business owners who choose this legal entity will pay self-employment taxes, which can drive up their tax liability. A limited liability company is similar to the organization of a limited liability partnership (LLP). There are no restrictions on the maximum number of members allowed. For smaller businesses, an LLC is well-suited for owners who want the protection of personal liability without the disadvantages of incorporation. Anyone is eligible to form a limited liability company, but some businesses, such as insurance and banking businesses, cannot form an LLC.

They are often entrepreneurs who have joined in business with others in the same specialty. With a professional corp, each owner is both a shareholder that owns a portion of the company and an employee of the company. Some states restrict ownership in the professional corp only to those who provide the professional service the business focuses on.

This means if a sole practitioner forms a PC then they are saddled with double taxation. May be taxed differently than a sole proprietorship or partnership. This can lead to savings on taxes, which is always a plus for professionals looking to maximize their earnings. Can provide a more formal structure for the business, which can enhance credibility with clients and partners. Stands for Professional Corporation, which is a type of company that allows professionals like doctors and lawyers to work together while protecting their personal assets from business liabilities.

Overview of a Professional Corporation

Each owner in a PC must be a licensed professional to operate. However, this entity type also requires annual maintenance, such as registration renewal in the state. Though LLCs are treated as pass-through business entities for federal taxes, some states also impose extra franchise taxes on LLCs. This added protection is valuable for professionals working in industries susceptible to malpractice like medicine or law.

These legal terms could also be helpful

Discover the distinctions between a PC (Professional Corporation) and an LLC (Limited Liability Company) for your professional business, with expert insights and guidance available in our comprehensive guide. Nikki Winston is a CPA who enjoys writing about accounting, tax, personal finance, and career advice. Both PC and LLC organizers must file the necessary paperwork with the secretary of state to form a new entity.

The choice depends on individual circumstances and professional requirements. In general, most states allow professions that require licenses to set up PCs. This typically includes doctors, veterinarians, chiropractors, dentists, attorneys, architects and accountants. At least one shareholder must be licensed in the state, although not all the shareholders need to be. If you plan to do business in more than one state, it’s likely you’ll need to set up a new PC for each state. The best business structure depends on individual circumstances, including the profession, risk tolerance, financial goals, and state laws.