Do you need a lawyer for a business consultation?
Starting or closing a business involves many important decisions, such as choosing the business structure, drafting partnership agreements, and managing documentation. Here’s an overview of the key steps for both starting and closing a business, along with how a business consultation can help you build a solid foundation.
Starting a business
To establish your business, there are some fundamental steps to follow, including selecting a business structure, registering the company, and submitting necessary documents:
- Choosing a business structure: Your choice of business form affects both liability and taxation:
- Sole trader: Ideal for individual entrepreneurs, where the owner is personally liable for business debts.
- Trading company (HB) and Limited partnerships (KB): For businesses with multiple owners. In trading companies, all owners are personally liable, while limited partnerships have at least one partner with limited liability.
- Limited company (AB): A common structure where owners aren’t personally liable for debts. Requires share capital and can have one or more owners.
- Economic association: Suitable for businesses with multiple members, aiming to benefit their economic interests.
- Registering with Swedish companies registration office: Limited companies and economic associations have to register with the Swedish Companies Registration Office (Bolagsverket). For other business forms, it’s optional to register the business name.
- F-Tax and VAT registration: Apply for F-tax and VAT registration with the Swedish Tax Agency to legally operate your business.
- Permits and licenses: Some industries, such as restaurants and healthcare, may require special permits. Services offering business consultations can help determine the requirements for your field.
- Partnership and shareholder agreements: For businesses with multiple owners, a partnership agreement is crucial (also known as a shareholder agreement). It outlines ownership, responsibilities, investments, and exit procedures.
Closing a business
Closing a business can be complex, especially for limited companies. Careful planning is essential to avoid future issues, and consulting with someone in business or that knows the legal aspects of it is highly recommended before starting the process. Key steps include:
- Deregistering with the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish Companies Registration Office: Deregister for F-tax, VAT, and employer registration.
- Paying off debts and ending contracts: Make sure all debts are settled and contracts are properly terminated.
- Final accounts and annual report: Prepare a final set of accounts and, in some cases, an annual report.
- Liquidation of limited companies: To dissolve a limited company, go through liquidation by selling the company’s assets, paying debts, and officially closing the company.
What we offer in a business consultation
Advice and support for starting and closing a business
We help you choose the right business structure, create partnership agreements, and draft essential legal documents for a solid foundation. For business closures, we provide guidance and assistance in dissolving your company smoothly and legally.
Registration and representation
We guide you through the registration process with the Swedish Companies Registration Office and the Swedish Tax Agency, making sure all necessary documentation for employment and business structure is in place.
Planning and risk management
Through advice on employment issues, contract management, and tax matters, we help you identify and minimize risks during both the startup and closure phases.
Get legal help today
Do you need a business consultation? You can always get in contact with our lawyers within just 24 hours when you need quick answers to your questions. Or you can email or call us whenever you need to hire a lawyer for legal assistance.
FAQ about business consultation and starting or closing a business
Which business form is best for me?
It depends on your business’s nature, liability distribution, and tax situation. Contact us for help selecting the best structure for your needs.
How much does it cost to start a business?
Costs vary depending on the business structure, registration, and advisory services. Expenses can range from a few hundred SEK to higher amounts for limited companies.
Do I need a partnership agreement if starting a business with others?
Yes, a partnership agreement or a shareholder agreement is highly recommended to clarify responsibilities, rights, and profit-sharing among co-owners.
How do I dissolve my business?
Dissolution involves deregistering with the Swedish Tax Agency, settling debts, terminating contracts, and preparing final accounts. Limited companies often require formal liquidation.
