FAQ: "Do I need an LLC to start?"

No. You need an invoicing system. Here's the minimum legal-and-money setup before video #1.

The solo-creator setup checklist:

— Operate as a sole proprietor using your legal name (US) until ~$30k/yr
— Separate bank account for UGC income only
— Invoicing tool: Wave or Stripe Invoicing (both free to start)
— A 1-page contract: scope, fee, usage rights, revision policy, payment terms
— A W-9 ready to send (US clients will ask)

An LLC is a later optimization, not a starting gate.

Save this. Set it up once, then every new client plugs into the same system.