Client contracts
- Sign contracts in the LLC's name, and sign as a member or manager — not personally — to protect your liability shield.
- Cover scope, deliverables, fees, payment terms, late fees, and who owns the work product (intellectual property).
- Include limitation of liability, confidentiality, termination, and how disputes will be resolved.
- New York's Freelance Isn't Free Act requires a written contract when a client hires a freelancer for $800 or more (alone or combined over 120 days). NYC has its own version.
- Licensed professions need a license from the NYS Education Department's Office of the Professions or the Department of State.
Professional insurance
- Professional liability (errors and omissions) covers claims that your work or advice caused a client financial loss. Many clients require it.
- General liability covers injuries or property damage, such as at a client's office.
- Cyber liability matters if you handle client data or systems.
- Once you have employees, you must carry workers' comp, disability benefits, and Paid Family Leave.
Invoicing
- General consulting isn't subject to New York sales tax.
- Some services are taxable in New York, such as information services and protective or detective services.
- LLCs taxed as partnerships that do business in New York City may owe the city's Unincorporated Business Tax.
- Most New York LLCs also pay a yearly state filing fee (Form IT-204-LL) based on New York income.
- Put your LLC name, invoice number, dates, services, amounts, and any sales tax (as a separate line) on each invoice.
- Keep invoices and tax records organized — states can audit several years back.
These are New York state and federal requirements. Cities and counties often add their own. Requirements and fees change — confirm with the agency before you apply. This is general information, not legal or tax advice.
Other New York Business Types
New York Construction & Trades: Licenses and Permits
Construction / Trades license, permit, tax, and insurance requirements for New York LLCs, as bullet points with official links.
New York Food Business: Licenses and Permits
Food Business license, permit, tax, and insurance requirements for New York LLCs, as bullet points with official links.
New York Transportation Business: Licenses and Permits
Transportation license, permit, tax, and insurance requirements for New York LLCs, as bullet points with official links.
New York Ecommerce Business: Licenses and Permits
Ecommerce license, permit, tax, and insurance requirements for New York LLCs, as bullet points with official links.
New York Insurance Business: Licenses and Permits
NY DFS producer licenses, business entity licensing, DRLP requirements, appointments, continuing education, and coverage for insurance agencies.