Small Business

Starting an insurance agency is a lot like starting any business. You’ll need to choose a business structure, register and license your business, get insurance and more. But you’ll also need to become a licensed insurance agent and learn how to navigate a highly regulated field. Here’s how to get started. 1. Become a licensed…

Stripe and Shopify are both popular tools for online businesses, but the products are inherently different. Stripe is a payment service provider that allows small businesses to accept and process payments online. Shopify, on the other hand, is first and foremost an e-commerce platform. Shopify gives you the ability to create, customize and manage an…

Leaders Merchant Services’ reputation precedes it, and it’s not a good one. Customer complaints and negative reviews cite deceptive sales tactics, surprise fees and customer accounts being closed without warning. Business owners should proceed with caution and consider alternative merchant service providers before signing a contract with LMS. What is Leaders Merchant Services? Leaders Merchant…

Structuring your business as an LLC might protect your personal finances in case of a lawsuit, but you’ll still need general liability insurance and other commercial policies to protect your business assets. The best business insurance providers for LLCs offer convenient packages and great customer service, whether you prefer an online or face-to-face experience. Do…

Cleaning businesses face risks unique to their industry. A worker could knock over a client’s valuable vase while dusting a mantel or accidentally spray a caustic cleaning agent into their own eyes, requiring medical treatment. Unless you’re protected by business insurance, your company could be responsible for paying those replacement costs or medical expenses. Here’s…

Many small-business owners structure their companies as limited liability companies, often abbreviated as LLCs. True to its name, the LLC business structure limits the extent to which business owners are personally liable for company debts or losses. But while an LLC structure offers some protection for your personal assets, it doesn’t protect your company from…

Professional liability insurance is essential for any business that provides services or advice for a fee — that includes contractors. In fact, clients will often require proof of coverage before agreeing to do business with you or your firm. What is covered under professional liability insurance? Professional liability insurance covers defense costs and damages if your…

Insurance is a necessity for most small businesses, but the cost of coverage varies widely from one company to the next depending on the size and nature of your business. A small firm with 10 employees and a fleet of vehicles simply has different business insurance needs than a solopreneur with no employees or physical…