Smart Business Articles

For sharp business minds who want clarity, not clutter.

From payroll and taxes to cash flow, leadership, and growth planning, we share insights that help small and mid-sized business owners make better decisions and keep their operations running smoothly.

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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

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

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

Young entrepreneur plans for a successful startup

Why a CPA should be the first hire at your startup

It may not be where your hiring strategy goes first, but it should be. 90% of start ups fail. Often that’s because owners see it as their duty to do...

small business accounting business strategy

What a recession might mean for your restaurant

A recession is bad for all businesses but can be especially rough on restaurants. Margins are already tight, and staffing issues can often compound...

small business accounting restaurant business strategy