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.

Join for the insights. Stay for the “oh, that actually helped.”
Plan with your accountant throughout the year—rather than waiting until end of year—to reach your goals and avoid unwanted surprises.

Why you shouldn’t wait until ‘crisis mode’ to hire an accountant

Tell us if you’ve heard this one before. It’s February (or maybe even March), and you’re scrambling to get some poor, beleaguered accountant to get...

small business accounting tax strategy business strategy
An accounting firm that takes a comprehensive approach to your business can help keep you focused and on the path to creating your dream business.

What does your accounting firm actually do for you every month?

Hiring an accounting firm is one of the smartest things you can do for your business. At least that’s what people say, but is it true? What do those...

small business accounting tax strategy
A payroll provider ensures your people get paid accurately and on time gives you peace of mind. Properly-paid employees are happy employees.

It’s time to outsource your payroll, here’s why

You have a lot of faith in your accountant or accounting firm. As you well know, an in-house bookkeeper has a lot on his or her plate — adding...

payroll + hr + compliance business strategy
ERC, a tax credit that encouraged business owners to keep employees on payroll during the pandemic, has helped many businesses survive the last few years.

What you need to know about the Employee Retention Credit in 2022

The Coronovirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act contains a business relief provision known as the Employee Retention Credit (ERC), a...

small business accounting employee retention credit (ERC) tax strategy
Pass-through entity (PTE) taxation can help counter negative implications of the cap on itemized SALT (state and local tax) deductions.

How to use the pass-through entity tax in Wisconsin or Illinois

The Tax Cut and Jobs Act of 2017 had many long-ranging implications, but perhaps none more significant than its effect on itemized deductions and how...

small business accounting tax strategy
It's important to get your payroll right. Calculating overtime in a bi-weekly pay cycle can add another layer of complexity, but there are tools to help!

How to calculate overtime in a bi-weekly pay cycle for Wisconsin and Illinois

A common question we hear from our clients is how to calculate overtime in a bi-weekly cycle. That’s because overtime is calculated in Illinois and...

payroll + hr + compliance
How to pick an insurance carrier for your small business

How to pick an insurance carrier for your small business

You have a ton of responsibility as a small business owner, but there’s one thing that often gets lost in the shuffle when you’re starting out that...

insurance business strategy
It’s important for your small business to be ready for anything – which can include economic downturns. Making sure your business is protected should be a top priority as you move into the future.

How small businesses can cut costs & improve cash flow in a recession

Is there a recession coming? We don’t know what the future holds, but it’s always important for your small business to be ready for anything – which...

small business accounting business strategy
Before you purchase real estate for your small business, be sure you have the money and the right space.

Should your small business buy property?

For most small businesses, it’s the dream to eventually own the building that your business operates out of. After all, historically real estate has...

small business accounting business strategy
It's important to reviewing financial statement to prepare for small business growth.

Creating a foundation for small business growth

Growth is probably one of your goals this year for your small business – and if it isn’t, it should be. That said, not all growth is created equal....

small business accounting business strategy
S-corp, Partnership, or C-corp: Which is right for your small business growth?

Which Entity Type Is Right For Your Small Business?

According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis, S corporations account for 76.8% of corporations with less than 500 employees and 37.3% of corporations...

tax strategy
How to Grow Your Small Business Through Mergers and Acquisitions

How to Grow Your Small Business Through Mergers and Acquisitions

As part of our continuing series on how to grow your small business the right way, today we look at mergers and acquisitions. Acquisitions can be a...

small business accounting business strategy
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