It seems that just about everything is political. With the mid-term elections fast approaching, there are strong feelings that are being expressed on conventional and social media as well as in homes and workplaces. What are small businesses supposed to do about such expressions in the workplace? Read More

It’s never too early to think ahead, so now—the beginning of the fourth quarter of 2022—is a great time to begin year-end planning. The goal of this tax planning is to minimize 2022 taxes by taking advantage of tax breaks applicable to your situation as well as positioning your business for 2023 and the new tax rules that go into effect at the start of the year. Read More

Year-end tax planning is always challenging due to uncertainties. Will your projected profit (or loss) for 2022 wind up as such? What will 2023 bring? Will Congress change tax rules—favorably or unfavorably (and possibly retroactively for 2022)? Will your state and local government make law changes affecting your business? Despite uncertainties, planning now is warranted to minimize your 2022 tax bill and position you favorably for 2023. Here are some ideas for your operations and strategic planning.

In the old days, employers had to withhold money from employees’ paychecks primarily for two purposes: income tax withholding and FICA. Income tax withholding applies for federal and state income taxes. FICA withholding is the employees’ share of Social Security and Medicare taxes. Over the years, employers have become the financial centerpiece of many employees’ lives, and this is reflected in withholding for a vast array of reasons. Read More

When you think of a business’ “brand,” which one stands out to you? Is it a company, such as Apple or Nike, with familiar logos and slogans? Is it your neighborhood restaurant that always brings a smile to your face when you think about its warm atmosphere and good food? Is it the mega-corporations, such as Google and Meta, that are continually in your life? It’s probably all of the above, and more. Read More

Do you have business-owned vehicles that employees use company business? Do you require employees to use their own vehicles for business driving? Whichever option applies to your company, be sure to have a policy on driving. This can enhance employee safety and avoid costly accidents.

Mandatory lockdowns during the pandemic forced many businesses into remote work arrangements. Now, many employers have continued this type of work arrangement because employees want it. That’s fine. There are, of course, other options that may satisfy employees. Here are some ideas to consider. You aren’t limited to just one; you can offer employees a menu of options as long as they are workable for your business. Read More