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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Learn the top IRS red flags for small businesses and how to avoid them to minimize audit risks and keep your business compliant with tax laws. The image shows a desk with tax forms, a calculator, a pen, and a caution sign, symbolizing the importance of compliance and careful recordkeeping.

The Top 5 IRS Red Flags for Small Business

When it comes to running a business, one of the last things you want is to attract the attention of the IRS. Unfortunately, certain common tax...

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A football team used to cold, snowy conditions gains an edge in harsh weather over a team used to milder climates. Discover your business's unique competitive advantage and maintain your market edge.

Give A Competitive Advantage To Your Business

As a small or medium-sized business owner, you’re likely always looking for ways to gain an edge over your competition. Just as in sports, where...

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The Profit First system ensures profit is the priority from the start. Similar to the envelope budgeting method, where you allocate money into different envelopes for various expenses.

What is Profit First and Why Do Accountants Hate It?

Mike Michalowicz, the author of the book Profit First and founder of the Profit First Method, developed a comprehensive training and certification...

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A focused businesswoman reviewing financial documents for creating a small business budget in a modern office. She is planning budgets, analyzing expenses, and projecting revenue for better financial management and growth. This image represents budgeting, financial planning, and business strategy for small businesses.

7 Steps to Develop a Budget for Your Small Business

Developing a budget is a crucial aspect of running a successful business. A budget provides a roadmap for allocating resources, making informed...

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ERC Updates 2024: You may still be eligible to apply for the Employee Retention Credit, but the deadline to apply is looming..

Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERC): What's Different in 2024?

You might be asking yourself "Is ERC is still even available in 2024??" While the program is no longer accepting new claims for wages paid in 2020,...

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Leverage small business networking events to develop and nurture strategic partnerships.

How to Build Strategic Partnerships for Small Business Growth

Forming strategic partnerships can be a game-changer for small businesses and entrepreneurs. These alliances allow you to leverage the expertise,...

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Discover 6 steps for measuring a company's growth and set the stage for continued success and expansion.

6 Steps to Measure a Company’s Growth

In the fast-paced world of business, growth isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a necessity. For small business owners and entrepreneurs, understanding and...

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Hire a CPA for your small business to grow your business with peace of mind.

When to Hire a CPA for Your Small Business

Are you putting in long hours at work, only to come home to continue working late into the night on the books? The truth is many small businesses...

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Discover what to look for in a good CPA for a small business.

How to Evaluate Your CPA's Performance

Looking for the perfect CPA for your small business is like finding a key teammate; it's crucial for your success. But wondering if your CPA is...

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Learn about the importance of the W-9 form for businesses and vendors.

What Is a W-9 and Who Is Required to Fill It Out?

A Form W-9 is an important document used by businesses to request the taxpayer identification number (TIN) of individuals, entities, or certain types...

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A modern POS system can transform your business financials, streamline operations, and drive long-term success.

How Your POS System Impacts Your Business Financials

In the rapidly evolving landscape of small business management, staying ahead of the curve is crucial. For many entrepreneurs and small business...

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Why You Should Buy Real Estate for Your Small Business

Why You Should Buy Real Estate for Your Small Business

When we set out to start or buy a business, our minds are often preoccupied with finding customers, building a team, and scaling growth. Little did...

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