What is necessary to start my own consulting business?

I am a social worker and plan to compose homestudies for attorneys, individuals and government agencies. Currently, I am a contract social worker for a non-profit agency and pay taxes quarterly and receive a 1099.



People will pay me a set fee for each homestudy and I will not be their contract employee as I am for my agency. I was wondering if I should become an LLC or become incorporated, etc.



Also, what type of accounting software should I use? Should I hire an accountant to assist with this or can I do it on my own? I know I can do the LLC or INC. paperwork online with the Secretary of State. Also, what about a DBA ?



I want to make sure that I do this the right way and not skip any steps or get myself in trouble with the government. Any help is greatly appreciated!

You should hire a consultant to assist you.

Go online and fine SBA.gov starting your own business there you will fine a business plan sample and info on how to start your own business, and the different types of businesses, every thing you need to know about started a business.