Beneficial Ownership: What It Is and Why It Matters

Beneficial Ownership: What It Is and Why It Matters

November 20, 20252 min read

If your business is structured as an LLC or corporation, there’s a new compliance rule you need to know. It’s called Beneficial Ownership Reporting, and it’s designed to increase transparency and reduce fraud.

Women at computer


What’s Required?

Under the Corporate Transparency Act, most small businesses must report:

  • Full legal name

  • Date of birth

  • Residential or business address

  • A unique ID number (like a driver’s license)

This applies to anyone who owns or controls 25% or more of the business.

Who’s Exempt?

  • Sole proprietors

  • Nonprofits

  • Publicly traded companies

If you’re not exempt, you’ll need to file a Beneficial Ownership Information Report (BOIR). The deadline has shifted a few times, but it’s best to prep now.

Why It Matters

Failing to file can result in penalties. But more importantly, this rule helps protect your business from fraud and builds trust with clients and partners.

What You Can Do

  • Review your structure: Are you an LLC or a corporation?

  • Identify your owners: Who meets the 25% threshold?

  • Gather ID info: Make sure it’s current and accurate

Final Thoughts

This isn’t just a paperwork exercise; it’s an opportunity to demonstrate that your business is built on integrity. Help your audience understand the rule with a clear and concise guide or checklist.

Source: ARF Financial: 2025 Tax Law Changes




Legal Disclosure:

CompliantHer™ program of (Relannford Enterprises LLC) is not a law firm. This document is intended for educational and informational purposes only and does not provide medical, legal, or financial advice. If you have questions about your specific situation, please consult a physician, attorney, or accountant licensed to practice in your state and/or country.


Affiliate Disclosure:

Some of the links in this course are affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, CompliantHer™ (Relannford Enterprises LLC) may earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking through the link.

Sandra is your go-to Regulations Coach and the founder of CompliantHer™, a movement helping women entrepreneurs over 50 stay confidently compliant in their marketing and business practices. With a background in legal work and a passion for simplifying the complex, she’s on a mission to make compliance less scary and way more empowering. When she’s not breaking down FTC rules into plain English, Sandra’s indulging her love of true crime shows, scenic road trips, and a really good luxury hand soap.

Sandra Sea-Fisher

Sandra is your go-to Regulations Coach and the founder of CompliantHer™, a movement helping women entrepreneurs over 50 stay confidently compliant in their marketing and business practices. With a background in legal work and a passion for simplifying the complex, she’s on a mission to make compliance less scary and way more empowering. When she’s not breaking down FTC rules into plain English, Sandra’s indulging her love of true crime shows, scenic road trips, and a really good luxury hand soap.

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