5 Problem-Solving Tips for Business Owners

business owner talking to a team about solving a problem

Business problem-solving is not always straightforward, and it requires collaboration, creativity, and a deep dive to uncover the root cause. Key takeaways: Identify and address the root cause Know when to delegate Take time to outline your thoughts Ask for new perspectives Use the EOS Toolbox™ and the Issue Solving Track™ Solving problems is a…

Read More

6 Ways to Manage Tax Records More Efficient

tax returns file folder in a file cabinet

Are you keeping your business tax records organized? Here are 6 tips for doing it right. Key takeaways: Six tips for better records management: Keep tax documents together Go digital Get ahead of deadlines Use one account or card for expenses Put a weekly plan in place Know which documents to keep and for how…

Read More

The Top 7 Financial KPIs for a Small Business

financial KPIs represented on digital graphs and charts

Are you keeping accurate tabs on your business’s performance? These 7 financial KPIs will help! Key takeaways: Financial KPIs help you understand how the business is performing and what to focus on now and in the future 7 important financial KPIs: Net profit Net profit margin Average customer acquisition cost Working capital and current ratio…

Read More

Top Impacts of the American Rescue Plan for Small Businesses

orange life raft floating in water

The American Rescue Plan, passed in March 2021, includes several provisions and extensions that target small business owners Key takeaways: The American Rescue Plan included the following: More PPP funds allocated Other small business loan programs continued New grants targeting specific businesses, including restaurants and venues Tax credits extended to support employers The Biden Administration’s…

Read More

Why Small Businesses Need Accurate Forecasting

a pile of post-it notes reading what’s next

What is forecasting, how can small business owners do it right, and why should they? Key takeaways: Small business forecasting is making future predictions based on actionable business data 4 tips for forecasting: Understand qualitative vs. quantitative forecasting Start with expense forecasts Create multiple forecasts Master cash-flow forecasting Stay flexible Small business owners just starting…

Read More

Succession and Estate Planning: Differences and Commonalities

tacks on a calendar indicating future business planning

While the two share some components, they have very different implications Key takeaways: Succession planning helps business owners or leaders plan for the transition when they leave the business Estate planning is focused on how your personal wealth will be distributed and managed after you’re gone Most people need an estate plan, but not everyone…

Read More

What Changed About Excess Premium Tax Credits?

stack of one hundred dollar bills

The IRS announced that taxpayers with excess advanced premium tax credits didn’t have to report the excess for 2020 Key takeaways: Premium tax credits are available to some eligible taxpayers who get health insurance coverage through the Marketplace Usually, taxpayers must report any excess advance tax credits on their tax returns, and it may increase…

Read More

Tips for Paying Yourself as a Business Owner

person opening a salary check with a laptop and phone on a desk

Running a business can quickly get in the way of paying yourself appropriately. Here’s how different business structures handle payments to owners, plus tips for including yourself while managing the budget. Key takeaways: A salary is a regular payment an employee receives, and an owner’s draw is a withdrawal of business funds that can be…

Read More

Why and When an IRS Audit Could Happen to You

a desk with tax forms, a calculator, glasses, and a form saying irs audit

While uncommon, certain red flags increase the risks of receiving an IRS audit It’s unlikely the IRS will audit you anytime soon. For the 2019 fiscal year, the organization only audited 0.45% of American taxpayers, a number equal to about one in every 220 people. One reason for this dip was a reduced budget for…

Read More

Tax Record Essentials for Gig Workers

a gig worker riding his bike to a delivery

Gig workers have unique responsibilities for organizing their tax records and paying quarterly balances on time. Life as a gig worker can be pretty good. After all, you’re usually your own boss, and you can set a schedule that fits in with your lifestyle. However, there are some challenges, including filling out invoices, collecting payments…

Read More