In the wake of the Sony hacking incident, how can companies reduce the chance of their electronic and hard-copy records being compromised? Hackers can infiltrate your organization within the office or across the globe. Help your organization reduce the likelihood of an attack and its debilitating effects by taking both proven and emerging security steps….
Year-end tax planning is not restricted to individual taxpayers. Some astute moves by the owners or managers of a small business can also shave dollars off your tax bill. As it does with individual tax planning, uncertainty exists, but here are five practical ideas to consider in any event. Wait and see on equipment purchases….
Year-end tax planning is rarely, if ever, simple. This year is certainly no exception. As we approach the end of 2014, certain tax provisions have remained in limbo, perhaps depending on the results of the midterm elections. Nevertheless, this does not mean you should stand idly by. Here are seven timely tax strategies that may…
There is more to look forward to than just senior citizen discounts as you approach the end of your working career. When you cross certain thresholds, you may benefit from special provisions affecting retirement savers. Here is a brief rundown of these age-based mileposts. Social Security benefits: Generally, you must wait until a specified age…
It is difficult to find good workers and often even tougher to keep them. That is why you might entertain the idea of rehiring someone who left the business and is now hoping to return. However, this scenario is not without potential pitfalls, especially if you encountered problems with the worker the first time around….
Earlier this year, an incident involving a major-league baseball player taking time off from “the job” after the birth of his son triggered a national debate. Absent collective bargaining agreements, like the one in place for major-league baseball, this issue remains a lightning rod for controversy. The major controlling federal law in this area is…
Workplace fraud is a legitimate threat around the country. Recent estimates of the cost of employee theft and fraud to U.S. businesses range from $20 billion to $50 billion a year. No business, regardless of size or nature, appears immune. Sound advice: Do not sit around waiting for fraud to endanger your small business. By…
As the summer draws to a close, it’s time to size up stocks in your portfolio that may be ripe for selling this year, especially when you factor in the tax consequences. It’s an annual ritual known as “harvesting” capital losses. However, due to recent tax law changes, you may be inclined to reap different…
The IRS recently released its “dirty dozen” tax scams to watch out for in 2014. Here is a rundown of this year’s list: 1. Identity (ID) theft: This occurs when someone uses your personal information, such as your name, Social Security number (SSN) or other identifying information, without your permission, to commit fraud or other…
Practically every business owner will tell you that it takes more than one person to build a profitable business. It’s likely that several “key employees” will contribute to the success of an operation. However, while a business owner may be careful to make sure that he or she is adequately insured, the need to protect…
