Forms of Business Structure

Forms of Business Structure Overview

It is important to differentiate the types of business structures and make appropriate credit decisions based on the business’s risk and owners’ liability.  This Forms of Business Structure course introduces three of the most common business forms: sole proprietorships, partnerships, and corporations.  We also cover other business forms, including C and S Corporations, limited liability companies (LLC), franchises, nonprofit organizations, and cooperatives.  By the end of this course, you should have a thorough understanding of the similarities and differences between forms of business structures, as well as each structure’s liabilities, rights, and limitations.  We will also look at scenarios where business structures can affect how an analyst makes decisions in the lending process. 

Forms of Business Structure Learning Objectives

Upon completing this course, you will be able to:

• Understand why business structures exist
• Identify common business structures
• Compare the different business structures and consider their advantages and disadvantages
• Highlight each structure’s liabilities, rights, and limitations
• Consider how a business structure can affect the lending process
• Determine suitable business structures for different scenarios

Who should take this course?

This Forms of Business Structure course is perfect for aspiring or early-stage credit professionals, including business and commercial bankers, credit analysts, real estate lenders, equipment finance, loan & mortgage brokers, and other private (non-bank) lenders.