Yesterday I mentioned that I need an income audit in order to get a decent deal on my home mortgage. I am doing this because even if the audit costs $1,000, the savings on the better interest rate more than make up for it. But there is another silver lining to my dark cloud of frustration as well: I am going to be an L.L.C.

While calling around to C.P.A.s, I happened upon one who seemed especially helpful. Not only did he do what he could for me in terms of figuring out income audit stuff, but he also asked me this question: "Have you thought about becoming an L.L.C.?" I had heard that there were benefits to becoming an L.L.C., but had not seriously looked into it.

This lovely accountant, Paul, explained to me that if I formed an L.L.C. (my husband would be involved), I would pay much less in taxes, and still have access to most of my money. Needless to say, I’m off to learn more about L.L.C.s. And if this income audit comes in on budget and on time, Paul will probably arrange the paperwork. And, since my tax return will suddenly be more complicated, he’ll probably be doing that, too.

The silver lining to this nightmare cloud of a home mortgage experience is that I’ve found a way to better structure my business and my earnings, and to save money doing it.