LLC or PLLC

[Guest090822]

I have an opportunity to work as a sub-consultant. I want to register an official business with my state. I'm a licensed engineer but would not be stamping any of the work I would be doing. From what I'm reading, that means I can just register as a consulting firm as a limited liability company (LLC) and do not have to register as a professional limited liability company (PLLC) since I'm not stamping or certifying the engineering. Basically, I'd just be like any other non-professional consultant correct? Just looking to make sure I'm interpreting this correctly. Thanks in advance!

 

[phamENG]

Probably depends on the state, but I think you'd still need to be a PLLC. You're a licensed professional offering professional services for which you are licensed. As such, many state boards would require you to seal your final product. Your client may then reproduce it under the terms of your contract and seal the drawing sheet it's on, but your submittal and/or review/backcheck would likely need to be accompanied by a sealed letter.

Probably best to run the question by both the board and an attorney. Will you be bringing on other licensed partners in the future? If so, a PLLC is probably best as it compartmentalizes professional liability.

 

[EnergyProfessional]

Ah... why not just be an hourly employee for that company? I did that before to avoid all the insurance and liability. Basically relatively high hourly rate, but no guaranteed hours or benefits. I did that besides my regular job (my regular employer was OK with that)

If you have your own company, you need insurance, software, accounting and so on. And you should consult a lawyer to really shield your personals assets from liability. there likely is more to than just a PLLC. You working out of your home? So why is your home than personal asset and not part of the PLLC? I have no law knowledge, just playing devil's advocate here.

 

[IRstuff]

Professional engineers assume personal liability for their work; I don't think any corporate structure can protect you from lawsuits, unless someone else accepts liability for your work

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