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Hey everyone!

So, I have the opportunity to paint under a company (won't name any names). I would be working through this company and my completed work would be posted on their website and social networking pages. However, the/my clients would be paying me directly for the work I would be doing. I would be working from my home and using my own supplies, paints, etc. I know there are many artists on here and thought perhaps I could get my questions answered on here. I've been trying to do my own research online but can't seem to find a clear answer.

So here they are:

1) Do I need to set myself up as a business?

2) Would I need to get a business license even though all payments would be sent to my legal name? (I read online that if you are operating under your legal name a business license isn't necessary? Is that correct?)

3) Would I be considered an employee of this company even though they would not be paying me, the client/s would? Or would I be considered a independent contractor?

4) Would I need to charge and therefore pay sales tax in my state, IL?

5) If I am considered my own business/independent contractor (not an employee) would I have to pay self employment tax quarterly or would I pay my taxes by April 15th like everyone else?

I have no experience with business or legal anything so this is all new territory for me. This is an amazing opportunity but I would like to know what I'm getting into before I give a definitive answer. Any and all advice would be helpful!

thanks