So my state is figuring out their kinks with the cottage food law but I should be able to bake under it early next year.

Would I just need a business license or would I need an LLC as well?
(In Washington, they're two seperate things. One's through the county and one's through secretary of state.)

Thanks so much

I think they are two different things everywhere. An LLC is basically a way you can choose to organize your business and protect yourself from personal liability (to some extent) if someone should sue your business. Check with a lawyer in your county or do an online search to get more information on what it means to be an LLC. If you become an LLC, you have certain filing requirements with the state and possibly other requirements to meet on an annual basis.

You will need to formally establish yourself as a business (LLC, Corporation, etc.). This you should do with the advice of an accountant or attorney. It is critical for you to do this prior to officially starting your business. It is to protect you personally from any potential lawsuits. They would be suing your company and not you. I set myself up as an LLC.

A business license is typically what a state will require for you to conduct business. You would be registering your business name, tax id, etc. You should be able to go online to your state's small business site to find out more info.

Every state is different so it is best to get professional advice.

Forming an LLC is simple, you don't necessarily need to pay an accountant or a lawyer to do it.

More info on WA LLCs:
http://nolonow.nolo.com/noe/popup/NNLLCWABAS_faq.html

Don't forget that you'll also need liability insurance for your LLC, and if you do business under a name other than your own you'll need to file a d/b/a notice with your county.

Jason_Kraft is correct in that you don't need a lawyer or accountant to help you set up an LLC. However, if you are unsure about the different types of businesses and the tax responsibilities it is best to get advice from experts and/or do your homework. I'm fortunate that my accountant does not charge me for quick calls or basic questions.

I set up my LLC by doing all the research on my own and attending a business workshop. After that I contacted my accountant to determine what info he needed.

You should do what you are most comfortable with. Best of luck!

Thanks everyone. I know I want to be a LLC versus Corp or Sole Pro. I was just confused on the difference between that and a business license. Thanks for clearing it up