Being a business owner has its perks, but it also comes with a lot of financial responsibilities. One of the biggest challenges is figuring out the best way to pay yourself. As a business owner, you may have a lot of questions about how to pay yourself, how much to pay yourself, and what options are available to you. In this article, we will discuss some of the best ways to pay yourself as a business owner.
Before we dive into the best ways to pay yourself, it’s important to note that every business is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Your business structure, size, and revenue will all factor into how you should pay yourself. That being said, there are some general guidelines that can help you make the best decision for your business.
Salaried Employee
One of the most straightforward ways to pay yourself is as a salaried employee. This means that you pay yourself a set amount each month, just like you would any other employee. This method can be beneficial because it provides a steady income stream and makes it easier to budget your personal finances. Additionally, paying yourself a salary can help you establish credit and make it easier to apply for loans or mortgages.
However, there are also some downsides to paying yourself a salary. If your business experiences a slow month, you may not be able to pay yourself your full salary. Additionally, if your business is taxed as a pass-through entity, you may be subject to self-employment taxes on your salary. This can be a significant expense, so it’s important to factor it into your decision.
Draws and Distributions
Another option for paying yourself is through draws or distributions. This method involves taking money out of the business’s profits as needed. Draws and distributions are typically used by businesses that are taxed as a partnership, LLC, or S corporation. This method can be beneficial because it allows you to take money out of the business as needed, rather than on a set schedule.
However, there are also some downsides to using draws and distributions. This method can make it difficult to budget your personal finances, as your income will fluctuate based on the business’s profits. Additionally, if you take too much money out of the business, it can negatively impact your cash flow and put the business at risk.
Combination Approach
Many business owners find that a combination of salary and draws or distributions works best for them. This approach allows you to establish a steady income stream through your salary while still being able to take money out of the business as needed. For example, you could pay yourself a salary each month and then take a distribution at the end of the year if the business has had a profitable year.
This method can be beneficial because it provides a balance between a steady income stream and the flexibility to take money out of the business as needed. However, it’s important to carefully consider how much to pay yourself in each category to ensure that you’re not taking too much money out of the business and putting it at risk.
Conclusion
Deciding how to pay yourself as a business owner can be a complex process. There are many options available, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. Ultimately, the best way to pay yourself will depend on your business’s unique circumstances and your personal financial goals. It’s important to carefully consider all of your options and consult with a financial advisor or accountant to ensure that you’re making the best decision for your business.
Remember, paying yourself is an important part of running a successful business, but it’s not the only factor to consider. By carefully managing your cash flow, budgeting your expenses, and reinvesting in your business, you can help ensure long-term success for your business and financial stability for yourself.