Want to be your own boss?

David Briese • August 29, 2016

Many of us dream of being our own boss and striking out on our own. The company tax rate has recently been reduced to 28.5% for small businesses. Individuals are also entitled to a 5% tax discount on their business income up to a maximum of $1,000.

However, you should never go into business just for the tax benefits. It takes determination and resilience, so you need to make sure you have developed a clear business plan, budgets and cash flow projections.

You also need to consider the right structure for you. Some options are:

Sole traders are the simplest business structure. All income from your business is treated as personal income so your personal marginal tax rates will apply. Decisions about the business rest entirely with you.

Partnerships can be used when you plan to run your business with one or more other people. While the income of the business is received jointly, each partner pays their own tax. When it comes to debt, each partner is liable.

With a company structure, shareholders own the company and directors run the company. Establishment and ongoing costs are generally higher than other structures. But there can be advantages; such as liability can be limited and tax rates on earnings are at a flat rate.

Discretionary Trusts (or family trusts) are managed by the trustees. Establishments costs can be high but this structure gives you flexibility to distribute income to various beneficiaries.

Setting up a business demands a great deal of thought and planning. We strongly recommend talking to your accountant, financial planner and solicitor before making a decision. While it’s possible to change structure down the track, it makes sense to get it right in the first place. For that reason, it’s vital to get professional advice specifically for your business.

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