Hi everybody,
Does anybody have any experience with publishing an application to the App Store while being a minor? I would publish the app under one of my parent's names, except I would not want to pay taxes under their tax bracket. Is there a way I could publish the app and be taxed in my own bracket (which is much lower than my parents').<p>Thanks!
Assuming you're in the US (you don't say), here are the IRS rules on if you need to file a return (essentially if you have earnings on the app store of over $5700 in 2010, and probably near the same amount in 2011, <i>and</i> your parents continue to claim you as a dependent.)<p><a href="http://www.irs.gov/publications/p929/ar02.html" rel="nofollow">http://www.irs.gov/publications/p929/ar02.html</a><p>But the Ts & Cs of being an Apple registered developer (which you need to be in order to become an iOS app developer state that):<p><pre><code> You certify that you are of the legal age of majority in the jurisdiction in which you reside (at least 18 years of age in many countries) and you represent that you are legally permitted to become a Registered Apple Developer.
Unless otherwise agreed or permitted by Apple in writing, you cannot share or transfer any benefits you receive from Apple in connection with being a Registered Apple Developer. The Apple ID and password you use to login as a Registered Apple Developer cannot be shared in any way or with any one. You are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of your Apple ID and password and for any activity in connection with your account. Notwithstanding the foregoing restrictions in this Section 1, if you are the parent or legal guardian of individuals between the ages of 13 and the legal age of majority in the jurisdiction in which you reside, you may allow such individuals to share your Apple ID and password for their use solely under your supervision and only in accordance with this Agreement. You are responsible for such individuals’ compliance with and violations of this Agreement and any other Apple agreements.
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So, in essence, your parents have to be the 'Developer', and you can share their credentials. Your "parents" will need to submit the app to the App Store, etc.
Not the app store in specific, but I remember as a minor the whole "not being able to enter into a contract" causing me a few problems.<p>It may be a long shot, but I'd look into having someone help you set up an LLC that might help you get around some of the issues of being "just a kid".<p>I know, it's damn annoying being not quite a person, but fight the good fight and don't be discouraged.