Advice

Many of us are familiar with the expression, “failing to plan is planning to fail.” As an Agent with New York Life, I can assure you that—when it comes to financial goals and objectives—this old adage still rings true. In fact, it may be more relevant than ever. As the last few years have shown,...

Author: Kathryn Pizzuro Employee Handbooks don’t need to be boring A necessary communication tool for all organizations, whether big or small, the Employee Handbook doesn’t need to be the unopened dust collector on every employee’s shelf.  Typically the first document handed to new employees and the main method for communication of operational standards, the Handbook...

Author: Christine Bowen – APR FSA, HSA, and 401(k) Contribution Limits to Increase in 2015Several of the most common benefit plans and account types have an increased allowance for contribution limits in 2015. The IRS has announced that it will raise the annual dollar limit on contributions for health care flexible spending accounts (FSAs), health...

If your small business needs funds, and you have not previously applied for or had difficulty securing a loan in the past, an SBA loan may be your best option. In 2014 the SBA initiated loans at record levels. Through it’s primary mechanism, the  7(a) Loan Program, the SBA had approved 52,044 7(a) loans for...

It’s an awful word. Micromanagement. We’ve all experienced it whether it be in volunteering your time, or as you climb the corporate ladder. And chances are, we’ve all been guilty of it as well. According to Merriam-Webster’s online dictionary, the act of management is defined as, “the conducting or supervising of something,” whereas, the same...

Plan today for the future. As a business owner, you recognize the importance of insuring your building, inventory and equipment. These assets are vital to the success of your company. However, what would happen if a key employee died unexpectedly or became disabled? Key employees are the foundation of a successful business. They are business...

Jeffrey T. Lindsey, PhD, PM, EFO, CFO Coordinator/Lecturer FES Programs Rinker School of Building Construction PO Box 115703 University of Florida Gainesville, FL 32611 352-273-1199 [email protected] UF Construction Management: Fire and Emergency Services What is your job and how long have you lived in Gainesville?  I am the Coordinator for the Fire and Emergency Services...

It’s been said that there are no shortcuts to success, but that’s not entirely true when it comes to owning a small business. Many entrepreneurs bypass the costs and challenges of the start-up process by purchasing an existing small business, complete with its own brand, facilities, employees, and customers. Although purchasing an existing enterprise can...

In the spirit of the holiday season, many individuals as well as businesses, make charitable gifts this time of year. And if you want to maximize on that gift from a tax perspective and claim a tax deduction for your gifts, you must itemize your deductions. There are several tax rules that you should know...

Family-owned enterprises are the foundation of America’s small business tradition. And even if your family isn’t involved at the outset, a relative is often an ideal candidate for a role where trust or special expertise is necessary. But is working with family members always a good idea? Business consultant and USA Today “Ask an Expert” columnist Steve Strauss says it’s important to first look at the pros and cons of these situations. “One of the...