When we started AB Impressions in 2009, we dove in head first and researched like crazy -- the IRS, the SBA, lawyers, accountants -- oh my! We've decided to save you some time searching (most likely) for the exact same things we've already found. Use 'em or leave 'em -- it's up to you. Enjoy and we hope these links help!		Setting Up a New Business IRS definitions of business structures/entities Side-by-side comparison chart (.PDF) of business structures/legal entities from bizfilings.com Ask an accountant: Monica Lane, C.P.A., based out of Joliet, IL (Say you were referred by us.) or e-mail at lanecpa@att.net Small business lawyer: Wilton Person, based out of Plainfield, IL or call at (815) 254-2467 The Will County Clerk's office (Illinois law requires that individuals conducting or transacting a business under any name other than the real names of the owners must file an Assumed Name Certificate with the County Clerk in the county in which the business is located. This requirement includes registration for sole proprietorships and general partnerships. However, if the business will be incorporated, a corporation, or an LLC, you must file with the Illinois Secretary of State.) Web designer, Lindsay Coats of Stellar Edge PR (Say you were referred by us.) The U.S. Small Business Administration Website