Do I need a lawyer for my side hustle?
More people than ever are turning to side hustles, moonlighting to bring in extra income after hours. Maybe you’re offering photography services as a weekend gig in Emporia, mowing lawns in Cottonwood Falls, doing some freelance writing or consulting in Council Grove, or selling handmade goods online from elsewhere in Kansas.
Whether you’re supplementing with a second income stream, starting small with hopes of being fully self-employed, or your hobby has been bringing in a profit, your side business is still a business — and businesses come with legal responsibilities.
At first, you may not think a lawyer is necessary. But a few key legal steps early on can protect you from costly problems later.
1. Protect Your Personal Assets
If you accept payments, use tools or equipment, or interact with customers, your startup has potential liability issues. One mistake, accident, or misunderstanding could put your personal savings or home at risk.
An attorney can help you choose the right business structure — like an LLC — to separate your business and personal finances, so a business issue doesn’t become a personal financial crisis.
2. Put Agreements in Writing
When your home-based business relies on word-of-mouth and neighborly trust, it’s tempting to shake hands and skip the paperwork. But misunderstandings about pricing, timelines, or responsibilities can sour relationships fast.
A lawyer can draft simple, plain-language contracts that fit your specific work — like service agreements, photography releases, or vendor contracts — to make sure everyone’s on the same page.
3. Stay Compliant with Taxes and Licensing
Even small, part-time businesses must follow relevant local, state, and federal regulations. That could include registering for an EIN, obtaining proper licenses, collecting sales tax, etc. An attorney familiar with Kansas small-business rules can help you stay compliant and avoid IRS headaches or city fines.
4. Protect Your Brand
If you’ve built a name, logo, or an online following, you’ve created valuable intellectual property. A lawyer can help you trademark your business name or logo and prevent others from copying your work.
5. Plan and Adjust for Growth
Maybe you’ve designed your passion project to eventually turn into a full-time business, or maybe your side hustle grew faster than you expected. Either way, a growing business will look different than the side hustle that started at your kitchen table. A lawyer can help you update your business structure, bring on partners or employees, draft operating agreements, and even explore succession or estate-planning options for your business assets.
The Bottom Line
A short conversation with a local attorney can give you peace of mind and a solid legal foundation for your side hustle. At Harvest Legal, we help Kansas entrepreneurs turn side projects into secure, sustainable, scalable businesses — whether you’re just getting started or ready to take the next step. Contact us today.