On this page · 9 sections
- Why Form an LLC for Your E-Commerce Business in Louisiana?
- Louisiana's Specific Requirements for E-Commerce Sellers
- Step-by-Step LLC Formation in Louisiana
- Understanding the Registered Agent Requirement in Louisiana
- The Importance of a Louisiana LLC Operating Agreement
- Obtaining Your EIN and Louisiana Tax IDs
- Essential Licenses and Permits for Louisiana E-Commerce
- Ongoing Compliance for Louisiana E-Commerce LLCs
- Key Benefits for Louisiana E-Commerce LLCs
Why Form an LLC for Your E-Commerce Business in Louisiana?
Launching an e-commerce business in Louisiana offers exciting opportunities, but it also comes with inherent risks. As you build your online store, sell products, and interact with customers, you're exposed to potential liabilities. This is where forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) becomes crucial. An LLC separates your personal assets from your business debts and obligations, providing a vital layer of protection. Imagine a customer suing your business over a faulty product or a data breach; without an LLC, your personal savings, home, and car could be at risk. With an LLC, these personal assets are shielded. Louisiana's legal framework recognizes the LLC structure, offering flexibility and operational advantages that are particularly beneficial for e-commerce ventures. The state's business-friendly approach, combined with the liability protection of an LLC, creates a solid foundation for growth. Furthermore, an LLC offers pass-through taxation, meaning the business itself doesn't pay corporate income tax. Instead, profits and losses are passed through to the owners' personal income tax returns. This avoids the
Louisiana's Specific Requirements for E-Commerce Sellers
Louisiana has specific nuances that e-commerce sellers must consider when forming an LLC. While the core process is similar to other states, understanding these local regulations is key to a smooth formation. The Louisiana Secretary of State is the primary agency overseeing business filings. To form an LLC, you'll need to file Articles of Organization with their office. This document requires specific information, including the LLC's name, its purpose, the registered agent's details, and the duration of the business. For e-commerce sellers, it's important that the LLC's purpose statement is broad enough to cover all your current and future online business activities, such as 'engaging in the sale of goods and services via online platforms and any other lawful business activities.' The LLC name must be distinguishable from other registered business names in Louisiana. You'll need to check the availability of your desired name with the Secretary of State's office before filing. Louisiana also has specific requirements regarding the registered agent; this individual or entity must have a physical street address in Louisiana and be available during normal business hours to receive official correspondence and legal notices. For e-commerce sellers who might operate from home or travel frequently, designating a reliable registered agent is paramount. Additionally, Louisiana imposes a franchise tax on LLCs, which is calculated based on the LLC's net worth. While there are exemptions and minimums, understanding this tax is crucial for financial planning. The Louisiana Department of Revenue also requires businesses to obtain a state tax ID number for sales tax and other state-specific taxes, which is separate from your federal EIN. Ensure your LLC's structure and filings comply with these state-specific rules from the outset to avoid potential penalties or operational hurdles down the line. Staying informed about any legislative updates affecting business formation and taxation in Louisiana is also advisable for long-term compliance. The state's unique business landscape requires diligent attention to detail. Ensure your filings are accurate and complete to avoid delays. The Louisiana Secretary of State's website is the definitive resource for the most current forms and procedural information. It's also wise to consult with a local business advisor or use a formation service that understands Louisiana's specific regulations. Failure to adhere to these state-specific requirements can lead to administrative dissolution or other legal complications. For instance, not maintaining a registered agent can result in service of process being sent to the Secretary of State's office, which you may miss, potentially leading to a default judgment against your business. Therefore, meticulous attention to Louisiana's distinct rules is non-negotiable for e-commerce entrepreneurs. The state's commitment to regulating business entities requires a proactive approach to compliance. This includes understanding the nuances of Louisiana's corporate law and ensuring your LLC operates in full accordance with them. It's not just about the initial filing; ongoing adherence is what truly secures your business's legal standing and operational integrity within the state. The goal is to build a robust and compliant e-commerce enterprise from day one, leveraging Louisiana's framework to your advantage while mitigating potential risks effectively. This proactive stance ensures that your business is well-positioned for sustained success and growth in the dynamic online marketplace. Remember, understanding and meeting these state-specific obligations is fundamental to establishing a legitimate and protected e-commerce operation in the Pelican State. The intricacies of Louisiana's business laws demand careful consideration and precise execution of all filing and compliance procedures. This diligence forms the bedrock of a secure and thriving e-commerce venture.
Step-by-Step LLC Formation in Louisiana
Forming an LLC in Louisiana involves a clear, sequential process. By following these steps diligently, you can establish your e-commerce business legally and efficiently. The first critical step is choosing a unique and compliant name for your LLC. This name must include the designation 'Limited Liability Company' or an acceptable abbreviation like 'LLC' or 'L.L.C.' Crucially, the name cannot be misleading or identical to existing business names registered in Louisiana. You can check name availability through the Louisiana Secretary of State's online business database. Once you've selected a name, the next step is to designate a registered agent. This individual or business entity must have a physical street address in Louisiana (not a P.O. Box) and be available during standard business hours to accept official legal documents and state correspondence on behalf of your LLC. You can serve as your own registered agent if you meet these requirements and have a physical Louisiana address, or you can hire a commercial registered agent service. The core of the formation process is filing the Articles of Organization with the Louisiana Secretary of State. This document, often referred to as the Certificate of Formation in other states, formally creates your LLC. It requires key details such as the LLC's name, the registered agent's name and address, the principal office address, and the names and addresses of the organizers. For an e-commerce business, ensure the purpose clause is sufficiently broad to encompass all your online sales activities. The filing fee for the Articles of Organization is currently $100, payable to the Louisiana Secretary of State. You can file online through the state's portal or by mail. After filing, the Secretary of State will review your Articles. If approved, your LLC is officially formed. While the state aims for prompt processing, it's wise to allow several business days, especially if filing by mail. Once your LLC is formed, you'll need to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS, regardless of whether you plan to hire employees. This federal tax ID is essential for opening business bank accounts, filing taxes, and potentially applying for licenses. The EIN application is free and can be completed online via the IRS website. Finally, you should draft an internal document called an Operating Agreement. While not a mandatory filing with the state, it's a critical internal document that outlines the ownership structure, management responsibilities, and operating procedures of your LLC. It helps prevent future disputes among members and clarifies how the business will be run, which is vital for any e-commerce operation, especially one with multiple owners or complex operations. This agreement should detail profit and loss distribution, member voting rights, and procedures for adding or removing members. It is highly recommended for all LLCs, regardless of size or number of members, to ensure clear governance and operational clarity from the outset. This step solidifies the internal framework of your business, complementing the external legal structure established by the state filing. The entire process, when managed efficiently, can be completed within a few weeks, setting your e-commerce venture on a solid legal footing in Louisiana. Remember to keep copies of all filed documents for your records. The Louisiana Secretary of State's website provides the most up-to-date forms and instructions for this process, ensuring you have access to the latest requirements. Careful attention to each step ensures a robust foundation for your online business.
Understanding the Registered Agent Requirement in Louisiana
Every LLC registered in Louisiana must designate and maintain a registered agent. This role is critical for legal and official communication. The registered agent acts as the official point of contact between your e-commerce LLC and the state government, as well as any third parties initiating legal action. They are responsible for receiving important documents, including service of process (lawsuit notifications), state tax notices, and other official correspondence from the Louisiana Secretary of State. To fulfill this role, the registered agent must have a physical street address within Louisiana—commonly referred to as a 'registered office'—and be available to accept deliveries during normal business hours, typically Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM. You have several options for who can serve as your registered agent. Firstly, you, as the business owner, can act as your own registered agent if you have a physical address in Louisiana and are consistently available during business hours. This is often the most cost-effective option for solo entrepreneurs. However, it requires you to be readily accessible and to use your home address, which some owners prefer to keep separate from business communications for privacy reasons. Secondly, you can appoint another individual, such as a trusted employee, business partner, or family member, to serve as the registered agent, provided they meet the physical address and availability requirements. The third, and often most practical, option for e-commerce sellers, especially those who travel, work remotely, or simply value privacy and reliability, is to hire a professional registered agent service. These companies specialize in providing registered agent services for businesses across Louisiana. They offer a reliable physical address, ensure timely receipt of documents, and often provide additional services like compliance reminders and mail forwarding. The cost for a commercial registered agent service typically ranges from $100 to $300 per year. Failure to maintain a registered agent or ensure they are accessible can have serious consequences. If your LLC cannot be served with legal documents because you lack a registered agent or they are unavailable, the court may deem service complete by default, potentially leading to a default judgment against your business. This can result in significant financial and legal liabilities that could have been avoided. Furthermore, the Louisiana Secretary of State may administratively dissolve your LLC if it's found to be non-compliant with the registered agent requirement. Maintaining an active and reliable registered agent is therefore not just a legal obligation, but a fundamental aspect of protecting your e-commerce business from potentially damaging legal oversights. It ensures that critical communications reach your business promptly, allowing you to respond appropriately and maintain good standing with the state. For e-commerce businesses operating online, where physical location might be less relevant to daily operations, the registered agent serves as a vital, consistent physical anchor for legal and official matters within Louisiana. It's a foundational element of your LLC's compliance framework.
The Importance of a Louisiana LLC Operating Agreement
While Louisiana law does not mandate that LLCs file an Operating Agreement with the Secretary of State, having one is an essential internal document for any serious e-commerce business. Think of it as the internal rulebook for your LLC, dictating how the business is owned, managed, and operated. It provides clarity, prevents disputes, and ensures smooth operations, especially as your e-commerce venture grows or evolves. An Operating Agreement is particularly vital for multi-member LLCs, clearly defining each member's ownership percentage, capital contributions, profit and loss distributions, and voting rights. It outlines the management structure: whether the LLC will be member-managed (all members participate in decisions) or manager-managed (specific members or external individuals are appointed to manage day-to-day operations). For an e-commerce business, this could detail who is responsible for website management, customer service, inventory, marketing, and financial oversight. The agreement should also specify procedures for admitting new members, withdrawing or retiring members, and handling the death or disability of a member. These provisions are crucial for business continuity and succession planning, preventing potential deadlocks or ownership disputes that could cripple an online business. Furthermore, a well-drafted Operating Agreement can help establish your LLC's credibility with financial institutions and potential investors. Banks often require it when opening a business account, and it can be instrumental in demonstrating the legitimacy and robust governance of your e-commerce operation. It also helps reinforce the separation between personal and business affairs, further bolstering the liability protection offered by the LLC structure. In Louisiana, the Operating Agreement helps courts recognize the LLC as a separate legal entity, reinforcing the limited liability shield. Without one, courts might scrutinize the separation of business and personal affairs more closely, potentially piercing the corporate veil in extreme cases. For a solo e-commerce entrepreneur, an Operating Agreement still serves a valuable purpose. It can document your intentions for the business, outline future plans for bringing on partners or employees, and clarify how you would handle various business scenarios. It acts as a blueprint for your business's future. Drafting an Operating Agreement doesn't necessarily require a lawyer, especially for simpler structures, but it's highly recommended to consult with legal counsel or use a reputable formation service that provides customizable templates. Ensure the agreement complies with Louisiana's LLC Act. A comprehensive Operating Agreement is a proactive measure that safeguards your e-commerce business, promotes operational efficiency, and provides a clear roadmap for success in the competitive online marketplace. It’s an investment in the long-term stability and governance of your Louisiana-based e-commerce LLC, ensuring that your business operates smoothly and transparently according to your established rules and objectives. This internal governance document is as important as the state-filed Articles of Organization for the sustained health of your e-commerce enterprise.
Obtaining Your EIN and Louisiana Tax IDs
After your LLC is officially formed by the Louisiana Secretary of State, the next crucial step is securing the necessary tax identification numbers. The most important of these is the Employer Identification Number (EIN), also known as the Federal Tax Identification Number. This nine-digit number is issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and serves as the primary identifier for your business for federal tax purposes. It's essentially a Social Security number for your business. You will need an EIN to open a business bank account, file federal taxes for your LLC, hire employees, and apply for business licenses and permits. Even if you're a single-member LLC with no employees, obtaining an EIN is highly recommended. It allows you to keep your personal Social Security number separate from your business dealings, which enhances privacy and security. It also makes it easier to transition to a multi-member structure or hire employees later without needing to change your primary business identifier. The application process for an EIN is straightforward and completely free. You can apply directly on the IRS website (irs.gov). You'll need to provide information about your LLC, including its legal name, address, the name and SSN of the responsible party (usually the business owner), and the type of business entity. Once submitted, you can often receive your EIN immediately online. Make sure to use the official IRS website to avoid third-party services that charge unnecessary fees. Beyond the federal EIN, your e-commerce LLC will need to register with the Louisiana Department of Revenue to obtain state tax identification numbers. This is particularly important if you will be selling taxable goods or services within Louisiana or collecting sales tax from customers. The primary registration is for a Louisiana Sales and Use Tax Certificate of Registration. This certificate allows you to legally collect and remit sales tax to the state. The registration process can typically be completed online through the Louisiana Department of Revenue's online portal. You will need your federal EIN to complete this registration. Depending on your specific business activities and whether you have employees, you may also need to register with the Louisiana Workforce Commission for unemployment insurance taxes and with the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles if your business involves vehicle sales. Understanding your state and local tax obligations is critical for compliance. Louisiana has specific rules regarding sales tax nexus, which determines when an online business must collect and remit sales tax in the state. As an e-commerce seller, you need to be aware of these thresholds and requirements to ensure you are compliant. Accurate and timely tax registration and remittance are fundamental to maintaining a healthy and legally compliant e-commerce business in Louisiana. It's advisable to consult the Louisiana Department of Revenue's website or a local tax professional to ensure you're meeting all state and local tax obligations specific to your online sales activities. This proactive approach to tax compliance prevents costly penalties and ensures your business operates smoothly.
Essential Licenses and Permits for Louisiana E-Commerce
Operating an e-commerce business in Louisiana requires more than just forming an LLC; you'll need to secure the appropriate licenses and permits to operate legally. These requirements can vary based on your specific business activities, the types of products you sell, and where you are located within the state, including specific parish or city regulations. The foundational requirement for most e-commerce businesses selling tangible goods is a Louisiana Sales and Use Tax Certificate of Registration. As mentioned earlier, this permit, obtained from the Louisiana Department of Revenue, authorizes you to collect sales tax from customers within Louisiana and remit it to the state. If your business sells goods that are subject to state sales tax, this permit is non-negotiable. Beyond state-level sales tax permits, you must consider federal, state, and local licenses that might apply to your specific niche. For instance, if your e-commerce business sells products regulated by federal agencies—such as food, drugs, firearms, or alcohol—you will need to obtain specific federal licenses and comply with relevant federal regulations. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) website is a valuable resource for identifying federal licensing requirements based on industry. At the state level, beyond the sales tax permit, certain industries might require additional professional or occupational licenses. For example, businesses involved in selling specific types of goods like cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, or even certain crafts may need state-specific certifications or permits. It's essential to research your particular product category thoroughly. Local regulations also play a significant role. Many parishes and cities in Louisiana require businesses operating within their jurisdiction to obtain a local business license or permit. This is often referred to as a 'parish occupational license' or 'city business license.' The requirements and fees vary widely by locality. For an e-commerce business, even if you operate from a home office, you may still need a local license depending on the municipality or parish rules. Home-based businesses might also be subject to zoning regulations or specific home occupation permits. You can typically find information about local licensing requirements by contacting the clerk's office or the relevant department in your city or parish government. Given the complexity and variability of licensing requirements, it's highly advisable to use resources that can help you identify all necessary permits. Louisiana's Business & Industry Economic Development (BIED) office may offer guidance, and many online business formation services can assist in navigating these requirements. Thoroughly researching and obtaining all necessary licenses and permits before commencing operations is crucial. Operating without the required licenses can lead to fines, penalties, and even forced closure of your business. It's a critical step in ensuring your e-commerce venture is legally compliant and can operate without interruption in the Louisiana market. Don't overlook this aspect; it's fundamental to establishing a legitimate and sustainable online business presence. This diligence ensures that your e-commerce operations are fully compliant with all applicable legal frameworks, from federal oversight to local ordinances, providing a secure foundation for growth and customer trust.
Ongoing Compliance for Louisiana E-Commerce LLCs
Establishing your e-commerce LLC in Louisiana is just the beginning; maintaining ongoing compliance is essential for its continued legal standing and operational health. Compliance involves several key areas that require regular attention throughout the life of your business. First and foremost is maintaining your registered agent information. If your registered agent resigns or moves, you must promptly designate a new one and update the information with the Louisiana Secretary of State to avoid lapses in official communication. Failure to do so can jeopardize your LLC's good standing. Another critical aspect is adherence to tax obligations. This includes timely filing and payment of federal, state, and local taxes. For e-commerce businesses, this primarily involves sales tax remittance. You must understand Louisiana's sales tax rules, including applicable rates, exemptions, and filing deadlines. Louisiana has specific requirements for remote sellers and marketplace facilitators, so staying informed about nexus rules is vital to ensure you're collecting and remitting sales tax correctly in all jurisdictions where you have a sales tax obligation. Beyond sales tax, be mindful of Louisiana's franchise tax. While LLCs are typically taxed as pass-through entities for income tax, they may still be subject to the state's franchise tax, which is based on the net worth of the business. Ensure you file the required annual report and pay any applicable franchise tax to maintain compliance. Annual reports are a common requirement in many states, and Louisiana requires LLCs to file an annual report and pay a fee to remain in good standing. Currently, Louisiana requires LLCs to file an annual report with the Secretary of State by the anniversary date of formation, accompanied by a filing fee. This report provides updated information about your LLC, such as its principal office address and registered agent details. Missing this deadline can lead to penalties or administrative dissolution. Record-keeping is another cornerstone of ongoing compliance. Maintain organized financial records, including income statements, balance sheets, and expense documentation. Keep copies of all filed tax returns, licenses, permits, and important business contracts. This meticulous record-keeping is not only crucial for tax purposes but also essential for demonstrating the separation between your personal and business finances, reinforcing your limited liability protection. Regularly reviewing and updating your Operating Agreement, especially if there are changes in ownership, management, or business operations, is also a key compliance measure. While internal, it ensures your business governance remains aligned with its actual operations. Finally, stay informed about any changes in Louisiana business law or e-commerce regulations that might affect your operations. Laws concerning online sales, data privacy, and consumer protection are constantly evolving. Proactively understanding and adapting to these changes will help prevent future compliance issues and ensure your e-commerce business remains legally sound and reputable within Louisiana's dynamic business environment. Consistent attention to these compliance requirements is fundamental to the long-term success and protection of your online venture.
Key Benefits for Louisiana E-Commerce LLCs
Forming an LLC in Louisiana offers a compelling suite of benefits specifically tailored to the needs and challenges of e-commerce entrepreneurs. The most significant advantage is robust liability protection. By establishing your online business as an LLC, you create a legal separation between your personal assets—such as your home, car, and personal savings—and your business debts and liabilities. This shield is crucial in the e-commerce world, where risks like product liability claims, customer disputes, data breaches, or contract disagreements are ever-present. If your business faces a lawsuit or cannot meet its financial obligations, your personal assets remain protected, offering immense peace of mind and financial security. Another major benefit is the pass-through taxation structure inherent to LLCs. Unlike traditional corporations, LLCs are generally not subject to double taxation. Profits and losses are 'passed through' directly to the owners' personal income tax returns. This means the LLC itself does not pay corporate income tax; instead, members report their share of the profits or losses on their individual tax returns. This often results in a simpler tax filing process and potentially lower overall tax liability, especially for small to medium-sized e-commerce businesses. Louisiana's business environment, while having its unique regulations, generally supports this flexible tax structure for LLCs. Operational flexibility is another key advantage. LLCs offer considerable freedom in how they are managed and structured. Whether you choose a member-managed or manager-managed setup, the Operating Agreement allows you to customize the internal operations to best suit your e-commerce business model. This flexibility is invaluable for adapting to the fast-paced and ever-changing nature of online retail. Furthermore, establishing an LLC enhances your business's credibility and professionalism. Having a formal legal structure signals to customers, suppliers, and potential partners that you are a serious, legitimate business operating in compliance with state regulations. This can improve trust and open doors to better business relationships, financing opportunities, and partnerships. For e-commerce sellers, this professional image is vital for building a strong brand reputation online. The process of forming an LLC in Louisiana, while requiring attention to detail, is relatively straightforward, especially with the assistance of formation services like Lovie. Lovie can streamline the filing process, handle state fees, and manage essential tasks like obtaining an EIN and setting up a registered agent, allowing you to focus on growing your e-commerce business. By leveraging these benefits—liability protection, tax flexibility, operational freedom, and enhanced credibility—Louisiana e-commerce entrepreneurs can build a more secure, efficient, and scalable online enterprise. It's a strategic move that lays a solid foundation for long-term success in the digital marketplace. The combination of these advantages makes the LLC structure a highly attractive choice for anyone serious about launching and growing a sustainable e-commerce business within the state.
Frequently asked questions
Can I operate an e-commerce business from home in Louisiana with an LLC?
Yes, you can operate an e-commerce business from your home in Louisiana with an LLC. Forming an LLC provides liability protection regardless of your business location. However, you must ensure compliance with local zoning ordinances and any specific home occupation permits required by your city or parish. Your registered agent must still have a physical street address in Louisiana, but this doesn't have to be your home address if you prefer to keep that private. Ensure your LLC's Operating Agreement clearly defines operations, and remember to obtain a Louisiana Sales and Use Tax Certificate of Registration if you're selling taxable goods or services. Complying with local regulations is key to operating legally from home.
How long does it take to form an LLC in Louisiana for an e-commerce business?
The timeframe for forming an LLC in Louisiana can vary. Generally, the Louisiana Secretary of State processes online filings for Articles of Organization within a few business days. Mail-in filings may take longer, potentially one to two weeks, depending on the office's workload. After your LLC is approved, obtaining an EIN from the IRS is usually immediate if you apply online. Securing necessary state and local licenses or permits can add additional time, depending on the specific requirements for your e-commerce niche and location. For a smooth process, allow at least 2-4 weeks from start to finish, especially if you're coordinating with a formation service or awaiting specific local permits.
What are the annual costs of running an e-commerce LLC in Louisiana?
The primary ongoing costs for an e-commerce LLC in Louisiana include the annual report filing fee (currently $100), franchise tax (which varies based on net worth but has a minimum), and potential registered agent service fees if you use a third-party provider (typically $100-$300 annually). You'll also have costs associated with maintaining business licenses and permits, as well as state and federal tax obligations. Depending on your sales volume, sales tax collection and remittance might involve accounting software or services. While the LLC formation itself has upfront state fees, the ongoing annual costs are generally manageable, especially compared to the liability protection and tax benefits provided.
Do I need a separate business bank account for my Louisiana e-commerce LLC?
Yes, it is absolutely essential to open a separate business bank account for your Louisiana e-commerce LLC. This is a critical step in maintaining the legal separation between your personal finances and your business affairs, which is fundamental to the liability protection offered by the LLC structure. Commingling funds (mixing personal and business money) can put your personal assets at risk and potentially allow creditors to 'pierce the corporate veil.' You will need your LLC's Articles of Organization and your EIN to open a business bank account. Having a dedicated account also simplifies bookkeeping, tax preparation, and financial management for your online business, making it easier to track income, expenses, and profitability.
How does Louisiana sales tax apply to my e-commerce business?
If your e-commerce business has a physical presence (nexus) in Louisiana, or meets certain economic thresholds for remote sellers, you are generally required to collect and remit Louisiana sales tax on taxable goods and services sold to customers within the state. You'll need to register with the Louisiana Department of Revenue to obtain a Sales and Use Tax Certificate of Registration. Louisiana has a state sales tax rate, and parishes and municipalities also levy their own local sales taxes, which can vary significantly. It's crucial to understand the specific tax rates applicable to your customers' locations and to file returns and remit the collected taxes by the due dates, typically monthly or quarterly. Failure to comply can result in penalties and interest.
Can I use my personal name for my e-commerce LLC in Louisiana?
You generally cannot use your personal name directly as the legal name of your Louisiana LLC. Louisiana law requires LLC names to include a specific designator, such as 'Limited Liability Company,' 'LLC,' or 'L.L.C.' While you can operate your e-commerce business under a 'doing business as' (DBA) name or trade name that includes your personal name (if permissible by state and local regulations), the official legal name filed with the Secretary of State must be unique and include the required LLC designator. This distinction ensures the LLC is recognized as a separate legal entity.
Lovie is not a government agency, law firm, or professional advisory organization. Lovie is a private business-formation service that prepares and submits filings to the appropriate state agencies on your behalf — we do not issue government documents, and state approval times are not controlled by Lovie. Information on this page is general and not legal, tax, or financial advice.