Providing employee benefits can help businesses attract and retain the best workers. But the cost can be out of reach for some small businesses. Two tax credits can help make benefits more affordable for eligible small employers: 1) a credit equal to as much as 50% of health coverage premiums paid, and 2) a credit…
While many provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) will save businesses tax, one break it eliminates is the Section 199 deduction. Often referred to as the “manufacturers’ deduction,” this potentially valuable break, when available, can also be claimed by eligible construction, engineering, architecture, computer software production and agricultural processing businesses. Under the…
“Big data” generally refers to any large set of electronic information that can be analyzed to identify trends, patterns and relationships. It can help businesses better define and predict customer behavior when it comes to buying trends and sought-after products or services. For example, by overlaying large proprietary consumer-behavior data sets over your customer database,…
In today’s increasingly specialized economy, outsourcing has become common. Engaging outside help could cut in-house management expenses by reducing overhead, staffing and training costs. Outsourcing also frees up employees’ time for core tasks and avails you of the provider’s expertise. But there are risks. Surrendering control of a business function to the wrong vendor could…
Owners of “pass-through” businesses may see some major (albeit temporary) relief under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) in the form of a new deduction for a portion of qualified business income (QBI). For tax years beginning after Dec. 31, 2017, and before Jan. 1, 2026, owners of entities such as sole proprietorships, partnerships,…
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) significantly enhances bonus depreciation. You might even be able to benefit when you file your 2017 tax return. Generally, for qualified property placed in service between Sept. 28, 2017, and Dec. 31, 2022, the first-year bonus depreciation percentage increases to 100%. In addition, the 100% deduction is allowed…
Every business owner must find time for strategic planning. Failing to do so can leave you working blindly, in danger of crisis or even ruin because of unforeseen developments. Some experts say a CEO should spend only 50% of his or her time on daily operations, with the other half going to strategizing. But the…
Many family businesses don’t survive to a third generation. To give your company a fighting chance, carefully choose a successor. Don’t assume your son or daughter is the only candidate. Work with objective outsiders to identify potential successors. Let these individuals work in various capacities for your company, giving each a fair shot at rising…
