BMS
Showing 129–144 of 154 results
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Collect like you mean it – Strategies for getting paid in full and on time
Summer 2013
Newsletter: Business Matters
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 586
Abstract: A business may say it expects its customers to pay on time and in full. But it may be giving off mixed signals if its billing and collection policies aren’t clear and consistent and it doesn’t seriously pursue deadbeat customers. This article offers steps to take to improve collection efforts.
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Here comes retirement … Are you ready?
Summer 2013
Newsletter: Business Matters
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 519
Abstract: Many Americans near retirement age aren’t ready, not having saved enough to enjoy their post-work years in financial comfort. This article lists probable retirement income sources and offers options for those who are behind schedule. The sidebar explains how those who are 50 or older can make “catch-up” contributions to tax-advantaged retirement accounts.
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Sec. 529 prepaid tuition vs. savings plans
Spring 2013
Newsletter: Business Matters
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 238
Abstract: When it comes to funding a child’s college education, Section 529 plans offer parents a way to contribute regardless of income level. Contribution limits are high and tax benefits are enticing. This brief article discusses the two types: prepaid tuition plans and savings plans.
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Consider business continuity before disaster strikes
Spring 2013
Newsletter: Business Matters
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 539
Abstract: Although most natural and manmade disasters are unavoidable, companies should take steps to protect employees, minimize loss of data and recover costs. A business continuity plan can reduce financial losses and facilitate a faster recovery, whether the disaster is a fire, earthquake, power outage or even a flu epidemic. This article summarizes the elements of a good continuity plan — including IT access and appropriate insurance coverage.
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Everybody does it … How to stop employees from padding expenses
Spring 2013
Newsletter: Business Matters
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 420
Abstract: Padding expense account reports is something everyone knows is wrong, but many do anyway. And these “minor” transgressions can add up to losses few businesses can afford. This article discusses methods of cheating and how fraud experts can not only uncover them, but can also help develop policies and processes to prevent expense fraud.
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It’s 2013: Do you have a new tax strategy?
Spring 2013
Newsletter: Business Matters
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 605
Abstract: Congress’s Jan. 1 tax deal saved the country from falling off the “fiscal cliff,” but it also introduced many new — and potentially confusing — changes to the tax code. This article looks at how the American Tax Relief Act of 2012 affects personal and business taxes. It discusses income and capital gains taxes, along with bonus depreciation and Section 179 expensing. A sidebar notes the increased exemption for the alternative minimum tax.
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How an ILIT can solve your estate planning quandaries
Winter 2013
Newsletter: Business Matters
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 186
Abstract: An irrevocable life insurance trust (ILIT) can be a solution for those who worry that their heirs won’t have sufficient cash to pay estate taxes — or that a life insurance policy’s value might exceed lifetime estate and generation-skipping transfer tax exemptions. But as this short article explains, ILITs also have potential drawbacks.
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6 questions to ask before refinancing your mortgage
Winter 2013
Newsletter: Business Matters
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 377
Abstract: In September 2012, the Federal Reserve announced plans to keep the Fed funds rate at “exceptionally low levels” at least through mid-2015. So this may be a good time to refinance a mortgage. But low rates are just one consideration. As this article shows, homeowners also must ask themselves several questions before taking the plunge.
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Business structure basics – Have you chosen the right entity?
Winter 2013
Newsletter: Business Matters
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 532
Abstract: Choosing a business structure, or entity, is an important decision that requires owners to consider several factors. The right structure depends on their circumstances, which may change over time. This article discusses the pros and cons of choosing to become a C corporation, S corporation or limited liability company (LLC), particularly as these structures pertain to flexibility, taxes and access to financing.
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Cash flow is your company’s lifeblood — monitor it closely
Winter 2013
Newsletter: Business Matters
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 468
Abstract: While growth and profitability are good measures of a business’s success, cash flow may better reflect its overall health. Many of the businesses that failed during the recent economic downturn can blame cash-flow problems such as low collection rates or the inability to secure lines of credit. This article discusses two tools that can help businesses analyze their cash flow: a detailed budget and a cash flow statement.
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Get (tax) credit for making your home greener
Fall 2012
Newsletter: Business Matters
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 186
Abstract: From now through Dec. 31, 2016, certain energy-efficient upgrades to existing homes are eligible for a 30% federal tax credit. This short article looks at the Residential Energy Efficient Property Credit, describing the kinds of upgrades that qualify.
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Self employed? There’s a retirement plan just for you
Fall 2012
Newsletter: Business Matters
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 387
Abstract: While a Simplified Employee Pension (SEP) plan or a traditional profit-sharing plan is a possible option for the self-employed, this article explores the solo 401(k) plan. Solo 401(k) plans combine features of a standard 401(k) with those of a profit-sharing plan and enable participants to make larger annual contributions than some other options allow.
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To insure or not to insure – That’s the LTC question
Fall 2012
Newsletter: Business Matters
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 491
Abstract: As health care costs soar and Americans live longer, long-term care (LTC) insurance is becomingly increasingly popular. For those who are healthy and between the ages of 50 and 65, this may be the ideal time to buy a policy. But it’s important to first understand the facts about the benefits — and risks — of LTC coverage. This article takes a look at coverage, costs and alternatives — including hybrid LTC policies, discussed in a sidebar.
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How to keep your family business in the family
Fall 2012
Newsletter: Business Matters
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 532
Abstract: Family business owners often make certain assumptions — that their children will gladly succeed them or that they’ll be able to transfer ownership and enjoy a comfortable retirement. Such assumptions can be dangerous. For starters, family members may have other career objectives. Even if they don’t, succession planning can be tricky, involving both retirement and estate plans. This article discusses succession issues and looks at potential business transfer vehicle options available.
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Umbrella policies provide shelter from legal storms
Summer 2012
Newsletter: Business Matters
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 168
Abstract: Homeowners and auto insurance may not provide adequate coverage for individuals found responsible for injuries resulting from an accident. That’s where a personal liability — also known as an umbrella — policy comes in. This brief article looks at what these policies cover and who might benefit from them.
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The cost of misclassifying employees as independent contractors
Summer 2012
Newsletter: Business Matters
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 384
Abstract: Business owners who need more workers, but don’t want the overhead — or commitment — associated with employees should pause before classifying them as independent contractors. The IRS actively looks for misclassified workers and can impose financial penalties on businesses that wrongly report employees as contractors. This article talks about some of the differences between the two classes of workers.