A sole proprietorship is the simplest and most common structure chosen to start a business. It is an unincorporated business owned and run by one individual with no distinction between the business and you, the owner. You are entitled to all profits and are responsible for all your business’s debts, losses and liabilities.

You do not have to take any formal action to form a sole proprietorship. As long as you are the only owner, this status automatically comes from your business activities. In fact, you may already own one without knowing it. If you are a freelance writer, for example, you are a sole proprietor. But like all businesses, you need to obtain the necessary licenses and permits. Regulations vary by industry, state, and locality.

In Iowa, a sole proprietorship is indeed the simplest business structure and does not require formal registration with the state to be established. As a sole proprietor, you are automatically considered as such when you engage in business activities without registering as any other form of business entity. However, you are personally liable for all debts and obligations of the business. It's important to note that while no formal action is required to establish a sole proprietorship, you must comply with all relevant licensing and permit requirements, which vary depending on the type of business, location, and industry. This may include obtaining a local business license, specific permits, or professional licenses. Additionally, you may need to register for state taxes and obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS if you have employees or meet other criteria. Sole proprietors in Iowa should also be aware of their responsibilities for state tax purposes, including sales tax, self-employment tax, and income tax.