Hallmarks of a Professional Enterprise:

1. Your business is a Limited Liability Company or Corporation, in good standing and properly registered with any state where your business is operating;

2. Your business has a unique business name (DBA), other than your legal given name, properly registered in the community where your business is based;

3. Your business has a business license, if required by the the community where your business is based;

4. Your business has a separate business bank account;

5. Your business has a separate tax identification number for your business;

6. Your business files a separate tax return for your consulting business's income and expenses;

7. Your business has general liability and, if required, errors and omissions insurance;

8. You and/or your business have valid professional licenses and certifications as required by your profession;

9. Your business has printed marketing collateral, including a professional Web site, business cards, brochures, and business letterhead;

10. Your business can show evidence of significant investment in resources for your business