Greetings everyone, I am a computer graphic artist who just moved and lost my job, due to downsizing and the economy. I am used to working for someone, keeping things simple. But now, while waiting for a good job, I've decided to freelance a little. The problem is, I've had to undergo learning all these special requirements and rules via the IRS about making ANY kind of profit via "services." I was told the moment I get paid anything for anything I've created for anyone, I am technically and legally a "business." This is my new dilemma, because I have had a Paypal account for a long time, but just for personal use. I upgraded to a merchant account (premier, I think it's called), but am wondering if I have to right away upgrade to a business account. I skimmed some of the details about the business account, but am unsure what I have to have on my end to even qualify as a business in Paypal's eyes. The problem is, I barely consider myself a true business--despite what the IRS strictly says--and I am sure I do not qualify under Paypal's view as a business to deserve upgrading to such. Don't I have to prove a good profit, and for a while at that, or something? If I accept monies from people through my merchant account, is this sufficient enough to do? How have other freelancers gone about this? At some point, do I have to go to a business account with Paypal to use things such as embedding a Paypal button into an email to pay something? I got my 1st tiny "gig" this week and the person sent me money through my Paypal. I started to send him an embedded Paypal "Pay Now" button, and went through the steps of the wizard, but decided to cancel it because I felt "wrong" doing it, since it seemed like it was part of the business options, and I am not classified as a business yet. Can someone with a merchant account freelance and have people pay through those options, even if the freelancer doesn't have a business acount? I just want to ensure I am being honest and doing the right thing. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Sorry so long. Kris
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