Carmen - If you have read all this great advice and decide that you still want to start out small and work your way into a bigger business entity, you can still apply for a business name that is just your name or something simple, like Carmen's Admin Services. You definitely should get an EIN, regardless, for the reasons listed above (don't give out your SSN.)

However, there is nothing that says you have to USE your business name. It doesn't have to be on your business cards or your web site. You don't have to answer your phone with your business name. There are some things that may not be as easy - like setting up a Facebook Page, but you can make it work, as long as you have clients and you make your name well-known.

My dad has run a very successful business for years this way. Everyone knows his name, but no one knows his business name. The bottom line is, do what works for you. If it isn't working, then change.

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Jennifer Simons - Girl Monday
www.girlmondaysf.com