Do I Need an LLC or a Business License? (And What “Startup” Really Means)

Do I need an LLC? Most people who ask this question don’t realize what they’re really asking.
They’re not asking about business structure. They’re asking for permission.

Two Rules of Thumb Before You Begin

1. If you live in a high-regulation state like California or New York, or a city known for tight business rules — check with an attorney first. Start a relationship, not a retainer.
2. If your net worth is around $500,000 or more, it’s time to form an LLC or corporation and verify you have insurance on everything you do. It’s not about your business — it’s about protecting what you already have.

The Bigger Issue: Waiting for Permission

Every week someone asks, “Should I set up an LLC before I start?”
My answer: No. You need a customer first.

Startup = test. You’re experimenting with risk, not committing to it.

The 5 Rules of Practical Risk Management

1. Keep It Simple – Use your name or a DBA. Proof over polish.
2. Get Paid in Stages – Offer small test projects. Build trust.
3. Test Before You Commit – Validate before spending.
4. Build Relationships, Not Paperwork – Talk to an expert early, but don’t hide behind setup.
5. Protect When It’s Real – Once there’s cash flow, then file and protect.

The “Company of One” Startup Field Rules

These are the street-smart principles for anyone testing an idea:

• Prove it before you formalize it.
• Avoid big fixed commitments.
• Get paid in chunks.
• Delay obligations, not integrity.
• Know when to formalize.

If you’re spending more than you’re collecting, you’re not running a business yet — you’re running a hobby test.

The Takeaway

Stop treating startup like a legal event. Start treating it like proof of concept.

If you need help finding your first profitable idea, download my Idea Engine workbook.
👉 https://dalecallahan.com/op/ideaengine

Key Takeaways:

• Starting is about validation, not verification.
• Legal structure protects results, not ideas.
• Your first customer is your best business license.
• Testing small reduces risk and builds momentum.