What is a sole proprietorship?

A sole proprietorship is defined as a business that is owned and managed by a single individual. This structure allows the owner complete control over all decisions and actions related to the business. The owner retains all profits and is personally responsible for any debts or liabilities incurred by the business. This means that there is no legal distinction between the owner and the business entity itself, which can simplify tax reporting and compliance, as business income is typically reported on the owner's personal tax return.

This form of business is one of the simplest and most common structures for small businesses due to its ease of establishment, minimal regulatory burden, and lower operating costs. The owner enjoys the full benefits of their hard work, but this also means they bear all the risks associated with the business.

In contrast, partnerships involve two or more individuals sharing ownership and management responsibilities. Corporations are more complex entities owned by shareholders who do not typically manage day-to-day operations and are protected from personal liability. The option referring to a business being ignored by tax regulations does not accurately describe any legitimate business structure, as all business forms must comply with tax laws.