Women-owned business statistics prove that female entrepreneurs aren’t to be underestimated. Not only do they account for over 12 million businesses in the U.S., they also tend to generate higher revenues, create more jobs, and improve company performance compared to their male counterparts. Woman-owned businesses are currently employing over 11 million people. That being said, asset protection is a crucial aspect of entrepreneurship that women entrepreneurs must be aware of, regardless of the industry in which they operate. Women entrepreneurs must create a barrier to their personal and business assets. With a comprehensive approach, they can protect their wealth and business continuity.
Women-owned businesses bring in nearly $2 trillion every year. Although this accounts to about 4.3% of annual private sector revenue, we can expect this number to keep growing as more and more women start their own businesses. The National Women’s Business Council found that the number of female entrepreneurs has increased by 114% compared to just 2 decades ago.
For these entrepreneurs, crafting an asset protection plan involves working with financial, insurance, and legal professionals to implement strategies to help protect personal and business assets from potential claims and lawsuits. This article emphasizes asset protection strategies women entrepreneurs must consider to help protect their personal and business assets.
Tip #1
Keep business and personal assets separate
A pivotal asset protection strategy for women entrepreneurs is separating business and personal assets. Creating a distinction between personal and business assets is vital and involves working with legal professionals to establish a legal entity for your business—a corporation, LLC, or partnership. This separation limits personal liability, safeguarding personal assets from business debts or lawsuits.
A legal professional can help you determine which type of business entity is suitable for your situation.
Tip #2
Decide what needs protecting
The first step in asset protection is determining the types of assets that need preservation. These assets typically include business assets, real property, personal possessions, and investments. A clear understanding of what needs protection is vital when creating a plan tailored to your circumstances and risk profile.
Tip #3
Purchase insurance
Another asset protection strategy is insurance. Insurance policies cover a broad range of risks that individuals and businesses face. Business liability insurance, for example, can protect against lawsuit-related losses. It is also advisable for women entrepreneurs to consider professional liability insurance, which protects against claims related to providing professional services.
Furthermore, purchasing insurance on personal assets such as homes and vehicles creates an added layer of protection. Remember that health insurance is also vital for asset protection. Without it, assets may be prematurely liquidated to cover medical care expenses.
Tip #4
Hire financial, legal, and tax professionals
Women entrepreneurs may face unique challenges and risks, particularly for preserving wealth. Hiring professionals, such as legal and tax professionals and financial professionals, is imperative. They can help women entrepreneurs develop a comprehensive strategy that preserves their assets and works toward the long-term sustainability of the business.
It’s important that women entrepreneurs seek professionals who have specialized knowledge based on their experience working with other entrepreneurs and businesses.
Tip #5
Maintain good credit
Maintaining a good credit rating is an often overlooked but critical part of asset protection. Creditors are less likely to pursue entrepreneurs who keep their personal and business credit separate and in good standing. Therefore, women entrepreneurs must separate their business and personal expenses and maintain timely bill payments.
By implementing these asset protection essentials, women entrepreneurs can focus on growing their businesses, knowing they have taken the necessary steps to help preserve their hard-earned assets. As women continue to break barriers in entrepreneurship, asset protection strategies may be crucial in supporting their journey.
The experts at Trajan Wealth specialize in Financial Planning for the present and future. They are also well-versed in 401(k) policies and logistics. They help small companies facilitate 401(k) plans for their employees with flat fees and timely completion.*
*Small business 401(k) plan services offered through a third-party provider.
