Island Business Blog
Surfing the Legal Waves: Tips and Advice about Registered Agents, Corporations, and Property Management in Hawaii
Should You Buy Your Big Island Home Under an LLC?
A lot of buyers hear that they should buy real estate under an LLC for asset protection. Sometimes that can be good advice. But if you are buying a home on the Big Island and eventually plan to live in it, using an LLC could be a costly mistake. The reason is simple:...
Payroll Made Easy: Creating Your Own Paychecks in Hawaiʻi (and Anywhere Else)
Running payroll doesn’t have to mean paying hundreds of dollars a year for software or outsourcing. As a small business owner in Hawaiʻi, I learned how to create my own paychecks, file taxes, and stay compliant using free state and federal portals—spending only a few dollars a quarter.
How a Foreign Corporation Can Get a Hawaiʻi GET Tax ID Number
Foreign companies can get a Hawaiʻi GET license without an SSN or ITIN by using a FEIN. File the BB-1 by mail or use a U.S. responsible party for online filing.
Common Notices We Receive as Your Registered Agent
Ever wondered exactly what types of notices a registered agent receives on your behalf? From legal documents and property permit violations to important regulatory updates, my role is to promptly handle these communications, ensuring your Hawaii-based business stays compliant and informed.
Why You Don’t Need to Hire a Big-Name Company to Start a Corporation in Hawaii (All the Tools Are Online and Affordable)
Learn how to file LLCs, corporations, LLPs, and other entities in Hawaii yourself—and why an affordable registered agent (just $40/year!) is all you need.
🏡Hosted Vacation Rentals and Ag Land on the Big Island: What You Need to Know (2025 Update)
Thinking about starting a hosted Airbnb on ag-zoned land in Hawaiʻi? Learn what’s legal on the Big Island in 2025, including hosted rental rules, Bill 123, and how state law affects ag land use.
How to File Any New Business Entity in Hawaii: LLCs, Corporations, LLPs, and More (Without Breaking the Bank)
Learn how to file LLCs, corporations, LLPs, and other entities in Hawaii yourself—and why an affordable registered agent (just $40/year!) is all you need.
How to Change Your Registered Agent in Hawai’i: A Step-by-Step Guide
Need to switch your registered agent in Hawaii? Follow this simple guide to update your agent quickly, avoid penalties, and ensure compliance.
Choosing the Right Hawaii Business Entity for Investment Property: LLC, Corporation, or Something Else?
Should you use an LLC for Hawaii investment property? Compare LLCs, personal ownership, partnerships, S-corp taxation, and corporations before you buy.
Hawaii Annual Report Filing: Why Your Registered Agent Matters
Avoid late fees and stay compliant! Learn how your Hawaii registered agent ensures timely annual report filing—and how Cape Project Management Inc. simplifies the process.
What Is a Registered Agent in Hawaii? Key Traits to Look For (Without Overpaying)
Need a registered agent in Hawaii? Learn what a registered agent does, what to look for, and why affordable services can protect your business without overspending.
So You Thought You Could Build an ADU on Your Ag Land? Think Again.
Thinking about building an ADU on your ag-zoned property in Hawai‘i County? While Bill 123 made it seem like you can, the fine print says otherwise. Unless your land is County-zoned Agricultural and falls within the State Urban District, the law likely doesn’t apply. Most ag lots on the Big Island are in the State Agricultural District—where strict farm dwelling rules still apply. Here’s what that means for your building plans.
Thinking About Building on Conservation Land on the Hāmākua Coast? Here’s What to Expect
“Building a home on Hawaiʻi’s Conservation land is possible — but it’s a serious process that demands patience, planning, and respect for the land. Here’s what you need to know before you take the first step.
Steps to Apply for the Ag Use Exemption in Hawai‘i County
Thinking about buying agricultural land in Hawai‘i County? If your property is being used for farming or grazing you may qualify for a major property tax break. Learn how to apply for the Agricultural Use Dedication, what documents you’ll need, and how much you could save on your tax bill.
10 Tips for when you are away from your Hawaii property
Whether you have vacation property that you visit a few times of year, you have rental property that is currently vacant or your have moved out of your home while it is for sale, these are 10 tips I have for ensuring you have peace of mind. Most of these tips apply...