After 20+ years of working for other firms, Penelope (Enrolled Agent, age 41), Mark (CPA, age 43) and John (CVA, age 65) want to leave the firms they are currently employed by and become their own bosses. Penelope specializes in Taxes, Mark is the Auditor and John is a Business Valuation expert.

There are so many options available to how they can structure the new business(s). The appropriate business entity for any individual(s) will depend on their particular facts and circumstances.

You are a valued colleague and friend of this three-some and they have come to you seeking advice as to how to structure their new business. They have the knowledge to figure it out themselves, but are looking for the advice of an unbiased 3rd party. Please consider the following tax and non-tax considerations as you recommend an entity choice to Penelope, Mark and John.

Prepare a tax memo (900 word minimum; 1,200 word maximum) to Penelope, Mark and John addressing the Entity Selection issue and discussing the following tax and non-tax considerations, point by point:

Part I: Discuss the various forms of organization that are available to Penelope, Mark and John.

Part II: Make your recommendation as to what form of organization you believe will be best and be sure to explain the reasoning for your choice.

Part III: Discuss the tax consequences of contributing cash, property and/or services to the new entity.

Part IV: Discuss, in detail, how this entity is taxed (if at all) and what filing requirements it has with the IRS.

Part V: Discuss how income and distributions may/will be allocated to Penelope, Mark and John.

Part VI: Discuss, in detail, how the individuals are taxed (if at all) with respect to the net profits from this entity and what filing requirements they will each have with the IRS.

Part VII: Discuss how Penelope, Mark and John will calculate their "basis" in the new entity. Be sure to include the impact that debt has on basis, if any.

Part VIII: Limited Liability - Discuss the exposure that Penelope Mark, and John's personal assets will have to the debts and lawsuits of the entity you have recommended.

You Decide: It's your turn as a tax professional to decide on the best course of action from a tax perspective on these issues as presented.