How do you pay yourself (legally) as it pertains to working within your own company?

[BWKSalon]

In what way(s) have you successfully set your business up to pay you? 

Are you paid hourly, by the sale, salary, or another way? 

[vinesandrushes]

A lot of this revolves around of what type of corporation type you are (LLC, LLC, Sole Proprietorship, S-Corp, C-Corp). The best approach is to ask a tax accountant - they can save you a fair amount on taxes and help you setup everything properly for paying yourself.

[alexandriak]

This is a question am accountant in your state can answer best. "rules" vary state to state and business setup to business setup.