General & Family Business
Showing 881–896 of 1042 results
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A stabilizing force – An advisory board can steer your family business through tough economic times
February / March 2010
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 692
Abstract: In these difficult economic times, companies are under extreme pressure to produce results, which can lead to increased tensions between company executives. In a family business, the strain can be even greater because of possible family conflicts or emotional ties. To maintain an even keel and ensure that decisions are made in the best interest of the company, forming an advisory board may be a smart option. An advisory board isn’t bound by a fiduciary responsibility to the company and shareholders, so it can feel freer to think creatively to develop solutions to business problems and identify new business opportunities. There are five key steps to consider when setting up a board.
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This for that – Barter makes a comeback in today’s economy
February / March 2010
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 653
Abstract: Barter sounds so ancient, but the practice is still being used by companies — especially in today’s tough economic times. With credit still difficult to obtain from banks, many businesses are bartering their products and services to conserve cash flow and reduce excess inventory. To initiate the barter process, a company can handle the arrangements itself or can consult with an exchange company to help find trading partners. This article looks at some of the details, but a sidebar warns that these cashless transactions can’t cut out the IRS.
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Moneylines: News briefs for businesses
February / March 2010
Newsletter: Trendlines
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 394
Abstract: This issue’s “Moneylines” takes a look at increased IRS scrutiny of wealthy taxpayers; a survey showing that businesses are catching up on their debts; the rise in “homepreneurship”; and the increasing use of social networking among businesses.
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Practical Perspectives: Key financial issues for you and your family – Couple escapes close call with online tax scam
February / March 2010
Newsletter: Trendlines
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 502
Abstract: When Irv was using his smartphone to check his e-mail, he noticed a message purportedly from the IRS. The e-mail solicited not only his Social Security number but also the number of the checking account he and his wife had used to pay their last tax bill. Surprised and a little suspicious, he mentioned the message to their advisor when the couple sat down to discuss some other matters. The advisor confirmed all of their suspicions: It was a scam. Fortunately, no damage had been done, but the advisor warned them about “phishing” and other scams.
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Paying college expenses? – You may be eligible for a valuable credit or deduction
February / March 2010
Newsletter: Trendlines
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 715
Abstract: Those who are paying higher education expenses may be eligible for a valuable tax credit or deduction. The American Opportunity credit is available for expenses incurred during the first four years of a postsecondary education. And the Lifetime Learning credit may apply to graduate courses, continuing professional education or job-skills courses. Or, one might take a deduction. The best option depends on individual circumstances.
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The embattled 401(k) – Businesses can still find value in this employee benefit
February / March 2010
Newsletter: Trendlines
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 1030
Abstract: Today’s employees may be more concerned than ever about building up retirement savings, and they’ll be looking to their employers to help them meet this goal via a 401(k) plan. Companies not worried about attracting and retaining workers now will likely do so as the economy recovers and more baby boomers retire. This article looks at a number of 401(k) options — the traditional, the Roth, the Safe Harbor and the SIMPLE — and how each may or not be suited for a particular type of business. A sidebar discusses the Solo 401(k) for self-employed businesspeople.
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Have you considered a reverse mortgage? It can do more than just fund medical expenses
Winter 2010
Newsletter: Management & Tax Concepts
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 668
Abstract: Although many associate reverse mortgage arrangements with someone looking to fund an influx of unexpected medical costs, they can do more than just that. Many higher-net-worth individuals are using these arrangements to supplement their retirement income, allowing them to take trips or buy recreational vehicles. Some are taking out reverse mortgages to fund the purchase of a vacation home, or to make annual exclusion gifts or 529 college savings plan contributions. But there are risks, as well, so it’s important to get professional advice.
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Accidents happen: Consider long-term disability coverage
Winter 2010
Newsletter: Management & Tax Concepts
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 423
Abstract: A disabling accident or illness can happen to anyone at any time — and the more severe, the greater the potential drain on an individual’s or family’s budget. For this reason, everyone should at least consider long-term disability insurance. Employer coverage is likely only short-term and, even if it’s for a longer period, may not offer adequate coverage. Buying one’s own long-term disability coverage isn’t inexpensive, but does offer certain advantages. There are, however, certain things to consider, such as how the insurer defines “disability” and whether to buy “own occupation” vs. “any occupation” coverage.
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6 key components of a business budget
Winter 2010
Newsletter: Management & Tax Concepts
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 408
Abstract: Many owners of small to midsize businesses don’t create a budget or don’t update the one they have, typically because they’re too busy or simply not focused on sticking to a budget. But keeping a budget is important not only for planning purposes, but because banks have been setting up loan covenants with an increased emphasis on budgeting. There are six key components that should be part of a budget, including line-item details for allocating funds and a regular monitoring of performance against expectations.
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Disaster recovery planning – Making sure your company is ready for anything
Winter 2010
Newsletter: Management & Tax Concepts
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 868
Abstract: Every year there are at least a few examples in the news of how a single natural disaster can adversely affect — sometimes even destroy — a business. And many disasters, both natural and manmade, have detrimental consequences not fully realized until many months later. This is why it’s so important that a company put together a comprehensive plan to keep its people safe, its information preserved and its operational capacity maintained. This article shows how disaster planning, storage technology and the proper insurance are important components in a disaster recovery plan. A sidebar briefly looks at the kinds of disasters waiting to happen.
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Tax tips to consider before 2009 ends
Year End 2009
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 452
Abstract: This short article looks at a number of ways to save money in regard to maximizing retirement account distributions, deciding whether to sell investments that have incurred a loss, and purchasing a car or computer.
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Structure your company around the right business structure
Year End 2009
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 744
Abstract: Many businesses that start out as sole proprietorships find that such a business structure leaves them ill-prepared to cope with increased tax, liability and administrative burdens as the business grows larger and more complex. But there are other structures available, including general and limited partnerships, S and C corporations, and limited liability companies. To avoid choosing the wrong business structure, it’s important to become educated on the advantages and disadvantages of each.
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Left a job? Pay heed to your 401(k) plan
Year End 2009
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 1023
Abstract: After leaving a job (whether voluntarily or involuntarily), some may wish for greater flexibility in how their retirement money is invested than a 401(k) allows. One option is to roll over the money into an IRA, either directly or indirectly. This article looks at the distinction and examines the tax implications, while a sidebar discusses the temptation to cash out a retirement fund during an economic crisis.
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All hands on deck – Collaborative management can boost a family business’s profitability and its nonfamily employees’ sense of self-worth
Year End 2009
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 632
Abstract: A management issue that’s unique to family businesses is keeping nonfamily employees from feeling undervalued on company endeavors simply because they aren’t family members. To keep nonfamily employees informed and motivated, it may be best to replace a traditional, top-down management style with a collaborative management approach. A strong leader who clearly communicates the company vision, a performance measurement system that emphasizes and rewards teamwork, and networking with other family businesses can help establish a collaborative management style.
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Practical perspectives: Key financial issues for you and your family – Savvy planner readies for 2010 IRA rule changes
Year End 2009
Newsletter: Trendlines
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 590
Abstract: Gerald is a 63-year-old physician who rolled over his traditional 401(k) into a traditional IRA when he left his hospital position to start his own practice. The tax-deferred contributions seemed like a good idea at the time, but he has no intention of retiring within the next decade. Thus, he’s bothered by the account’s required minimum distributions (RMDs), which he’ll have to start taking after he turns age 70½. Converting to a Roth IRA would solve that problem, but his high income disqualifies him from doing so. But, as his advisor explains, that will change in 2010.
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Moneylines: News Briefs for Businesses
Year End 2009
Newsletter: Trendlines
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 420
Abstract: This issue’s topics: An anti-identity-theft rule that’s in effect for companies that offer any sort of credit arrangement; the lack of competition among health insurance providers; pay increases that are expected to be only minimal in 2010; and more large companies seeking bank loan covenant amendments.