Should I start a LLC before I run a kickstarter campaign. How likely is it that someone will take my idea for a service the second I start a campaign and is it hard to do so if I start an LLC or is this competition inevitable and I just have to deal with it?
Related: How to form an LLC
You can't copyright a business model. Once it's in the public domain, anyone is free to compete with you. They can't use your name, or your trademark...but since it's merely a service you are offering, others are free to expand on that. Also,
I wouldn't use kick starter if you intend to raise money down the line from a VC...it's great for small projects, but it's a hindrance when you're trying to raise further capital down the line. If you want venture capital, set up a Delaware corp.
Good luck on your project!
Yeah setup a Delaware c-corp. Mostly for tax reasons if it's going to be a bigger crowdfunding campaign, otherwise you'll be personally liable for all the funds received with income tax,
Thanks for the advice
If you publish, outside of a book or similar copyright-able thing or an actual tradeark, you can't protect it.
LLC protects your personal assets if you are sued, and that's about it.