For the love of your business

Articles to LIFT Your Life and Business

Can I get a health care tax credit for my small business?

Q:     Can I get a health care tax credit for my small business?    –Curious Business Owner A:      Dear Curious: Health care tax credits can be a significant benefit for small businesses that want to provide healthcare for their employees. Not every small business will qualify for the tax credit. To determine if […]

Read More

How can I protect my digital property?

Q:     How can I protect my digital property?       –Concerned Business Owner A:      Dear Concerned: As a business owner with a website, you know first-hand the time and resources put into developing effective and results-driven content. It takes planning, research, and designs to develop your site and your other pieces of digital property. […]

Read More

Do I Need Insurance to Minimize Cyber Risk?

Q:     Do I Need Insurance to Minimize Cyber Risk? –Concerned Business Owner A:      Dear Concerned: Companies of all sizes are experiencing major data breaches at a startling rate. Many businesses are fortifying their cybersecurity to reduce this vulnerability. Nevertheless, some companies need extra protection, especially those that hold particularly valuable or vulnerable assets. […]

Read More

Do I need to be worried about where my company might be sued?

Q:     Do I need to be worried about where my company might be sued? –Fretful Business Owner A:      Dear Fretful: As a business owner, you are smart to anticipate potential problems, and thinking about where your company might be sued (or, for that matter, where you might bring a lawsuit) is wise. Generally, […]

Read More

How can I deal with wrongful information on my credit report?

Q:     How can I deal with wrongful information on my credit report? –Angry Entrepreneur A:      Dear Angry: The good news is that you are regularly checking your credit report. Keeping your credit score healthy so you can access capital when you need it is extremely valuable for your business. It’s easy to become […]

Read More

How can I get rid of this horrible employee?

Q:     How can I get rid of this horrible employee? –Frustrated Business Owner A:      Dear Frustrated: Whether your employee is incompetent or just doesn’t fit with your mission or people, it’s tempting to just tell an employee to “get lost.” But you must proceed carefully. Many laws provide protections even to “at-will” employees. […]

Read More

How can I establish a brand for my business that distinguishes it from competitors?

Q:     How can I establish a brand for my business that distinguishes it from competitors? –Inquisitive Entrepreneur A:      Dear Inquisitive: You are right to be concerned about establishing a solid brand. Branding carries through every aspect of your business. It’s broader than a logo or even your core values. It’s the driving force […]

Read More

How can I attract and keep quality employees for my small business?

Q:     How can I attract and keep quality employees for my small business? –Curious Entrepreneur A:      Dear Curious: In today’s competitive environment, it is increasingly difficult to attract high-quality employees. Of course, salary and benefits are always important. However, there are many things you can do that add value to your business and […]

Read More

As a small business owner, how can I reduce my tax liability?

Q:     As a small business owner, how can I reduce my tax liability? –Skeptical Business Owner A:      Dear Skeptical: First and foremost, you need to make sure your business is incorporated using the entity structure that will maximize your tax savings. For many solo and small business owners, that will be an S-Corporation […]

Read More

A friend of mine who keeps a pet at his office says the mascot helps to boost employee morale. Is that true?

Q:     A friend of mine who keeps a pet at his office says the mascot helps to boost employee morale. Is that true? –Skeptical Business Owner A:      Dear Skeptical: CNBC reports that more businesses are allowing pets in the office. Many big businesses support the practice, finding that it pays to invest in […]

Read More

I don’t have enough money to pay my taxes. What happens if I submit my tax return late?

Q:     I don’t have enough money to pay my taxes.  What happens if I submit my tax return late? — Worried Small Business Owner A:      Dear Worried: As an entrepreneur, cash flow can easily impact your ability to pay your taxes on time.  Obviously, it is best to avoid that predicament if you […]

Read More

Looking for a licensed Family Business Lawyer?