Thursday, December 25, 2008

Steps To Making A Horse Racing Partnership Succeed For You

By C. Anne Baker

Is it possible that you are thinking about signing up in a horse racing partnership or syndicate, or maybe you've already done so? Whichever, it's extremely important that you learn how to set up your own interest correctly so that you will be in possession of all the necessary accounting and documents when your annual tax time rolls around.

It's assumed that you will expect the IRS to view your horse racing involvement as a business, so it's necessary that you manage your share in systematic and professional way. To begin correctly, ahead of committing to a partnership, you should form a precise representation of not only your expectations, but exactly what the partnership is providing for you as well. A well written business plan should summarize your expectations for the syndicate and what you hope to achieve with your venture. Listed are points that you will need to incorporate into your horse racing partnership business plan:

* Your strategy for providing the required funds, both for the original horse racing partnership investment, and then to meet the monthly bills.

* A best estimate that the partnership's length, the duration of the contract - 1 year, 2 years, etc.

* Manner in which the partnership horse will be purchased: by auction, out of a claiming race, or by private purchase.

* An estimate of anticipated winnings and also costs.

* Define the boundaries in which the partnership will operate, for example, do you want to race regionally or go national.

* Be specific regarding insurance for your purchase, for example liability, serious injury and mortality insurance.

* Does the contract provide a clause allowing you to get out of the partnership?

In addition to a business plan, you need to know how to set up your business properly and how to account for income and expense. Some things you need to do in order to get your business set up properly include:

* Seek out an accountant who is well acquainted with horse racing partnerships.

* Set up a checking account and tag it with reference to the partnership, for example, Jeff Sanchez DBA Sanchez Stable, LLC. Use it only for partnership transactions.

* Retain every invoice you receive, receipt of winnings, check stub you write that apply to your horse racing partnership enterprise.

* Keep an appointment book and travel log to document appointments, visits to the racing stable, phone calls, any travel, all associated mileage, etc.

With proper planning, you can get started in the sport of horse racing with defined expectations and organization, which will help you choose a horse racing partnership more quickly. You will also be prepared to keep track of your equine activities in a businesslike manner, which will prepare you for tax time. Being prepared prevents worries or problems, which will allow you to really kick back and enjoy your thoroughbred ownership! - 16928

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