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Legal

From choosing a business structure to getting the proper licenses and permits, there are a lot of legalities involved in starting and operating a business. Legal hurdles will inevitably arise, so make sure you're prepared by reviewing our resources on business laws, copyright and more.

Latest: Advice, Tips and Resources

Article
Requirements for Keeping Paycheck Records
By Julie Thompson | January 30, 2026

Employers keep paycheck records to comply with federal and state laws, complete tax returns, and use in audits. Here's what you need to know.

Article
Important Things to Do After Your Trademark Is Registered
By Julie Thompson | January 29, 2026

Registering your trademark is the first step in protecting your brand. Learn what to do next to ensure you're handling the trademark process properly.

Article
How to Apply for a Copyright Online
By Julianna Lopez | January 29, 2026

Obtaining a copyright is a straightforward process online. Learn how to apply for a copyright online and the benefits of protecting intellectual property.

people talking in a lawyer's office
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Best Online Legal Services of 2026
By Max Freedman | January 28, 2026

Rocket Lawyer, LegalZoom and Tailor Brands streamline compliance via legal documents, business registration and registered agent services.

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The Best Business Insurance for Entrepreneurs in 2026
By Kimberlee Leonard | January 28, 2026

Compare providers like Hiscox, Progressive and The Hartford offering general liability, workers' comp and tailored small business coverage.

Article
Open a Business Bank Account Without an EIN
By Skye Schooley | January 27, 2026

Can you open a business account without an EIN? Yes! Learn which business types qualify, required documents, and when getting an EIN may be smart.

Article
From Collections to Repossession: A Timeline of Debt
By Kiely Kuligowski | January 20, 2026

Get your business out of debt with our guide to the debt collection process and see expert-backed advice for dealing with collection agencies.

Article
Can You Keep a Secret? The Importance of Nondisclosure Agreements
By Kimberlee Leonard | January 20, 2026

Nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) help businesses to protect critical confidential information. Learn how NDAs work, what to consider and what to include.

Article
The Most Popular Types of 501(c)s
By Deborah Sweeney | January 15, 2026

If you plan to form a nonprofit, it's important to know about the most common types of 501(c) groups. Get expert-backed tips for your organization.

Article
What Is OSHA Compliance?
By Max Freedman | January 14, 2026

This guide explains OSHA and the regulations it sets for workplace safety and employee health. Learn how your small business can comply with OSHA.

Article
How Do HIPAA Laws Impact Employers? (HIPAA Compliance Checklist)
By Adam Uzialko | January 12, 2026

This guide includes everything employers need to know about HIPAA requirements, as well as a HIPAA compliance checklist.

Article
Projection Mapping and the Law: What Advertisers Should Know
By Sean Peek | January 09, 2026

Projection mapping is a great way to impress customers and brand your business, but you should look into the legal implications first.

people talking in a lawyer's office
Article
How to Handle a Business Lawsuit
By Mark Fairlie | January 07, 2026

Business owners are vulnerable to lawsuits. Learn common lawsuit types, as well as how to handle a lawsuit, deal with insurance, and protect your company.

Article
5 Steps to Remove a Shareholder
By Stella Morrison | January 05, 2026

Although removing a majority shareholder can be difficult, it is possible. Here are the steps to make the process a smooth one.

Article
A Crash Course in the Business Legal Terms You Need to Know
By Mark Fairlie | December 17, 2025

From comparable worth to torts, here's the legal lingo all business owners should know.

Article
Trademark Basics: How to Submit a Trademark
By Max Freedman | November 20, 2025

Submitting a trademark is a way to protect your intellectual property. Learn how to submit a trademark properly, how it differs from a copyright, and more.

Article
6 Benefits of Forming an S Corporation
By Jamie Johnson | September 25, 2025

An S corporation helps you avoid double taxation and the self-employment tax. Learn the pros and cons of S corporations and other corporate structures.

Article
Trademark Examples: Learn From These Trademark Infringement Cases
By Sean Peek | September 18, 2025

Learn from 6 trademark cases including Apple vs. Apple Corps, Louis Vuitton vs. Louis Vuiton Dak, and Academy Awards vs. GoDaddy. Register trademarks early.

Article
Why You Should Develop a Relationship With a Business Lawyer
By Mark Fairlie | October 24, 2024

Business lawyers help with contracts, business structure, compliance, and legal risks. They save money by preventing costly mistakes before they happen.

Crazy Chemist
Article
Strange Business Patents of the Year
By Dan Ketchum | October 04, 2023

Are these products destined for revolutionary glory or just too far ahead of their time?

Article
Business Accommodations for Customers/Clients with Hearing Impairments, Vision Impairments, or Other Disabilities
By Chad Brooks | July 31, 2023

Provide customer accommodations with accessible entrances, wheelchair ramps, service animal policies, assistive listening devices and ADA-compliant facilities.