Internet buissness law

Some basic questions

[nfs2]

I run a couple of websites. I offer free services on them, and generate revenue through advertizing. This is just something ive been doing on the side for extra income.

I dont have an "incorporated" buissness, and i have no idea about internet buissness law. Is there any benifet to incorporating a company? Is there any harm in not doing so?

Also, im located (personally) in canada, but my websites are hosted in the U.S. Will this complicate things when incorporating a company? (ie: do i have to register in both countries?)

Please help, i have no idea about buissness! :(

[nfs2]

I should mention that i'm curious about this now because im thinking of expanding to directly sell products and services to the end user, rather then relying soley on ad revenue.

So if that matters..

[andye]

Hi nfs2,

Try some of these threads, they may have the info you're looking for:

[webmasterworld.com...]
[webmasterworld.com...]
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do i have to register in both countries?

doubt it.

im thinking of expanding to directly sell products and services to the end user, rather then relying soley on ad revenue. So if that matters

I wouldn't think so.

Maybe you should get a book which explains the ins and outs of this for Canada?

The term for forming a company is 'incorporation' or 'registering a company'.

A search on Amazon should bring up a bunch of choices.

In brief, the advantages of company registration can be:
- limited legal liability (as long as you behave honestly)
- financial advantages such as tax and the possibility of equity investment
but it depends on your particular situation, as well as your local laws.

You should also consider talking to an accountant.

Hope that helps, a.

[forex]

In my opinion, declare your website income to tax authorities same as you declare other income. Internet business will be classified under suitable categories by tax laws. I don't think websites needs to be registered.
But I have no idea about internet business law.

[PhraSEOlogy]

Try calling an attorney who is conversant with US and Canadian business law. They may be able to help you.