Starting a business comes with a rush of adrenaline, followed swiftly by a flurry of financial decisions. Among the most confusing is how, exactly, a business owner should get paid. The question seems simple, but the answer gets tangled quickly depending on structure, goals, and tax considerations. Choosing between taking a salary or drawing from the business isn't just a financial decision—it reflects how the business breathes, grows, and survives. Understanding the Structure Behind the Paycheck The