In need of advise please (self employed, accountant, company, taxes)

[blancagt]

I want to be self employed as a home care person (one that goes to a client's home to help him out with personal care and such).

How do I go about doing this goal legally?

I already know about getting a business license. And about paying for a "fictious" name if I want to put a name for my "company" business card.

I plan on doing this alone...not a big company or anything like that, just me finding a client or two, that's all.

I'm wondering about paying taxes though.

How do I know how much I am going to have to pay?

Or I'm wondering if it is even worth it? Someone mentioned to me that being self employed is not as good as it sounds because I would have to pay way, way more taxes?

I'm married and my husband is that provider and we have children.

Where would I go to find this info out (regarding taxes)? Or who do I call?

Any info is greatly appreciated!

[Sgoldie]

Get in touch with a free SCORE counselor in your area. Or, you could pay for a visit to a local accountant who can answer all of these questions for you.

[sirron]

Order your own criminal background check from your state's police department.
Become a member of your local chamber of commerce.
You don't say what state you're in, but some have income tax, and some don't. Your local H&R Block may be able to give you some free advice on tax rates, quarterly tax schedules, etc.

[annerk]

I agree, get in touch with SCORE, you've got a lot of valid questions, but there are many more you haven't asked and probably haven't even thought to ask.