Smart Business BLOG

Made for sharp business minds—who want clarity, not clutter.

From compliance and payroll to planning for growth, we break down complex topics that shape the decisions behind how you run, invest in, and grow your business.

Smarter business starts here.

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Accounts Payable automations are changing accounting. There's a lot to love about AP automation, and it might be just what you need to save time and money.

How AP Automation Solutions Are Changing Accounting

If you're a business owner feeling a bit wary about automating your accounting, it’s completely understandable. But there's a lot to love about...

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Lake County Workforce Development Program

Lake County Workforce Development Program

If you’re an employer in or near Lake County, and you are having trouble finding qualified candidates to fill open positions within your...

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Highlighting 5 Benefits of Using HCM and Payroll Software

Highlighting 5 Benefits of Using HCM and Payroll Software

As your business grows and flourishes, keeping everything running smoothly takes more work. Every individual part of your organization’s...

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Are You Overlooking These 7 Key Payroll Data Metrics?

Are You Overlooking These 7 Key Payroll Data Metrics?

As your employee pool grows, so too will the need to have efficient payroll processes. However, as you may well know, payroll professionals are...

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Human Capital Management (HCM) software can streamline HR tasks, improve payroll processes, enhance organizational efficiency, and improve productivity and the employee experience

HCM 101: What Is Human Capital Management?

Employees are the most important assets of any business. And while your people are your most valuable assets, managing your employees...

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Employee Retention Credit (ERC)

Employee Retention Credit (ERC)—You Might Still Qualify

Did you know that you might still qualify for the Employee Retention Credit? Find out what it is and whether you qualify in this helpful...

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A man wearing a blue hard hat uses a hammer. It's crucial to properly classify a worker before hiring to avoid costly penalties, back taxes, and potential litigation.

Employee vs. Contractor: Avoid Costly Misclassification for Your Business

Misclassifying workers as independent contractors instead of employees can put your business in hot water. Think heavy fines, back taxes,...

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IRS Estimates the Tax Gap Totals Hundreds of $$BILLIONS

IRS Estimates the Tax Gap Totals Hundreds of $$BILLIONS

If you are a small business owner, and you have never experienced an IRS audit, consider yourself fortunate. Be aware though, the...

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Millions of Backlogged Tax Returns

Millions of Backlogged Tax Returns

If you are one of the many people wondering what happened to the refund you expected from your 2019 federal tax return, you are not...

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REMINDER – Required IL Sexual Harassment Prevention Training

REMINDER – Required IL Sexual Harassment Prevention Training

On July 1, 2020, Public Act 101-0221 amended the Illinois Human Rights Act (IHRA) requiring Illinois employers to...

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Widespread Fraud Scheme Impacting All State Unemployment Programs

Widespread Fraud Scheme Impacting All State Unemployment Programs

WARNING Unemployment fraud is impacting Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) programs across the nation. Claimant fraud can include...

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Protect Yourself From Time Theft

Protect Yourself From Time Theft

30% of Employees Admit to This Crime No business owner wants to believe their employees are dishonest. Yet, thousands...

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