What is the main distinction between a corporation and a sole proprietorship?

The main distinction between a corporation and a sole proprietorship is that a corporation has a separate legal entity status from its owners. This means that a corporation is recognized by law as a distinct entity, separate from the individuals who own it. Consequently, the owners of a corporation, known as shareholders, enjoy limited liability protection, meaning they are typically not personally responsible for the corporation’s debts and liabilities. This separation helps protect personal assets of the owners in the event that the corporation faces legal issues or financial trouble.

In contrast, a sole proprietorship is not recognized as a separate legal entity; it is simply an extension of the individual who owns it. This means that the owner has unlimited liability and is personally responsible for all debts and obligations of the business.

The other choices highlight misconceptions or inaccuracies related to the fundamental differences in structure and liability between these two forms of business entities. For instance, corporations can indeed issue stock as a means of raising capital, and they are generally subject to more stringent regulations than sole proprietorships. In a sole proprietorship, the regulations and compliance requirements are typically less complex, making it easier and less costly to operate.