Entrepreneurs Working Online Must Follow the Law
Making money online is a fantastic way to earn a living.
The freedom that comes with running an online business, from anywhere in the world, is very empowering.
The Internet has no doubt improved the quality of life for people all over the world.
And Technology continues to push the limits.
Times have changed quite a bit since the early days of dial-up modems and text only bulletin boards.
Even with the Social Networking craze, full motion video, proliferation of blogs and forums, it is curious how people still try to be anonymous.
Many folks online that use an alias, or screen name, do so for privacy or marketing purposes.
And that is fine.
But it is amazing how many people just blatantly disregard the law when running an online business.
Not obeying the law is dangerous, not only for your customer, but for you and all parties concerned.
Even though you may not agree with all the laws regarding online commerce it is important that you learn and follow the rules.
It is not that hard to do.
Technology seems to outpace the law - but the law always catches up.
Please make sure that you research the laws in your country, state, city or town to ensure that you comply with all legal requirements.
We recommend that you visit the United States of America Federal Trade Commission (FTC) website to get an idea of what is required when starting and running a business.
Please do not get scared or overwhelmed by all the government language.
Their site is designed to inform and protect consumers - something your business should also do! You don't have to spend a lot of time on their site but you should visit it just to be aware of what NOT to do.
As you go through their site:
Now it may be a bit confusing when you first look at what is required to start and run a business, but don't let that bother you.
It is easier than it appears and people do it every day.
Most of the set up involves registering with the appropriate agencies to ensure compliance with fair trade, tax, zoning and insurance laws.
This is a good thing as it protects both you and the consumer.
Make sure you visit the Federal Trade Commission site and have a real plan before you notify the government of your intent to start a business.
There is nothing wrong with doing research as a private citizen.
Do as much research as required before you start your business.
Once you notify the government that you are starting a business you must comply with all the required business filings.
It is better for you to go through a "practice" run.
Do the required research, learn what is needed, draft a plan and then file for the start of your business.
This should not take very long if you follow the process and stay focused.
And after all - it is the law!
The freedom that comes with running an online business, from anywhere in the world, is very empowering.
The Internet has no doubt improved the quality of life for people all over the world.
And Technology continues to push the limits.
Times have changed quite a bit since the early days of dial-up modems and text only bulletin boards.
Even with the Social Networking craze, full motion video, proliferation of blogs and forums, it is curious how people still try to be anonymous.
Many folks online that use an alias, or screen name, do so for privacy or marketing purposes.
And that is fine.
But it is amazing how many people just blatantly disregard the law when running an online business.
Not obeying the law is dangerous, not only for your customer, but for you and all parties concerned.
Even though you may not agree with all the laws regarding online commerce it is important that you learn and follow the rules.
It is not that hard to do.
Technology seems to outpace the law - but the law always catches up.
Please make sure that you research the laws in your country, state, city or town to ensure that you comply with all legal requirements.
We recommend that you visit the United States of America Federal Trade Commission (FTC) website to get an idea of what is required when starting and running a business.
Please do not get scared or overwhelmed by all the government language.
Their site is designed to inform and protect consumers - something your business should also do! You don't have to spend a lot of time on their site but you should visit it just to be aware of what NOT to do.
As you go through their site:
- Write down a list of questions that you need answered
- Write down notes of what to avoid when you start your business
Now it may be a bit confusing when you first look at what is required to start and run a business, but don't let that bother you.
It is easier than it appears and people do it every day.
Most of the set up involves registering with the appropriate agencies to ensure compliance with fair trade, tax, zoning and insurance laws.
This is a good thing as it protects both you and the consumer.
Make sure you visit the Federal Trade Commission site and have a real plan before you notify the government of your intent to start a business.
There is nothing wrong with doing research as a private citizen.
Do as much research as required before you start your business.
Once you notify the government that you are starting a business you must comply with all the required business filings.
It is better for you to go through a "practice" run.
Do the required research, learn what is needed, draft a plan and then file for the start of your business.
This should not take very long if you follow the process and stay focused.
And after all - it is the law!
