STEP 1: ESTABLISH A LEGAL BUSINESS ENTITY

Most of our Architect clients choose to form a PLLC (Professional Service Limited Liability Company). This is a great option for solo practitioners and creates a distinct legal entity separate from the owner of the company, thus insulating the owner’s personal assets. Note, that Architects can’t form a regular LLC. Architecture is a licensed profession in the State of New York and therefore the Department of State requires a professional service entity be formed (PLLC or PC).

In order to establish a PLLC business entity, one must first obtain a Certificate of Authority from the New York State Education Department, Office of the Professions. The NYS DOE will issue a Certificate of Authority upon receiving the proposed legal formation documents (that are drafted in compliance with New York law), licensure information of the practitioner, filing fees, notarized affidavits, and other organizational documents contingent upon the profession.

STEP 2: COMPLIANCE WITH NEW YORK STATE PUBLICATION REQUIREMENT

Once the company is legally formed, it is required to comply with the New York State publication requirement. This involves running legal notices in the county of formation and filing a Certificate of Publication with the New York Department of State once the process is complete.

STEP 3: OPEN BANK ACCOUNTS

Once the entity is established you’ll need an IRS EIN Number to open a business bank account. An EIN number is basically a social security number for a business that the bank uses for identification purposes.

STEP 4: MALPRACTICE INSURANCE

There’s no shortage of insurance brokers in New York who will sell you malpractice insurance for your new Architecture practice. We suggest pricing out some policy options that best fits your needs.

STEP 5: HANG YOUR SHINGLE

Once the company is formed you can start marketing your services. There are so many ways to connect with potential clients the possibilities are endless. Digital marketing, traditional advertising, networking, co-working, referrals, blogging, the list goes on. It will take some time to hone your strategy, but once you do the phone will start ringing.

Contact us to inquire about our flat fee PLLC Formation Services!