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.”
An HR professional sits at a desk, reviewing paperwork with a focused expression, while an employee with an ice pack on their elbow sits across the desk. The scene depicts a professional and empathetic conversation in a well-lit office, emphasizing Workers' Compensation compliance and support.

What Is a Workers’ Comp Audit and How Can Your Business Be Ready?

Running a business is no small feat—there’s always something to manage, and a Workers’ Compensation (Workers’ Comp) audit might be one of them. If...

payroll + hr + compliance insurance
An AI accountant handles the repetitive tasks, like data entry, while an accountant gives strategic advice and guidance.

AI in Accounting: The Pros, Cons, and What It Means for Your Business

If you're a small or medium-sized business owner, you've probably wondered whether an AI accountant could help you manage your finances more easily....

small business accounting technology
A confident small business owner stands with arms crossed in front of a storefront with a sign reading

Bulletproof Your Business: How to Thrive in a Recession

Economic downturns are a natural part of the business cycle, and while it's impossible to predict exactly when the next recession will occur, savvy...

small business accounting business strategy automotive repair
Confident small business owner standing on a quaint main street in a rural setting, wearing a casual suit jacket and jeans, symbolizing financial growth through real estate tax savings strategies like cost segregation.

Save BIG Money: Maximize Tax Benefits for Your Real Estate

Owning real estate for your small business isn't just a milestone—it’s a smart financial move. Beyond giving your business a stable location,...

small business accounting tax strategy
Sunlit office desk with a laptop displaying payroll software, surrounded by documents, a pen, and a branded coffee mug. A Christmas tree with glowing lights is visible in the background, evoking a productive and festive year-end atmosphere.

Year-End Payroll and Tax Tips Every Small Business Must Know

As the year winds down, there’s more than just holiday cheer and New Year’s resolutions on the horizon. For small business owners, this time of year...

payroll + hr + compliance
With secure servers and updated technology, a team member works from home on a desktop computer. She uses AI occasionally to assist with data entry projects, allowing her to spend more time on strategic thinking.

How Remote Work, AI, and Data are Shaping the Future of Business

Key Takeaways: Flexible Work Models: Remote and hybrid setups are here to stay, offering employees more flexibility but also creating the need for...

business strategy technology
A side-by-side image: On the right, an upscale restaurant with soft, warm lighting. In the foreground is a formal place setting, with silverware, cloth napkins, and crystal wine glasses on a dark wood table. On the left, a fast food restaurant with bright, fluorescent lighting and plastic blue, red and yellow booths. In the foreground, a fast food burger, fries, and a fountain drink sit on a blue plastic food tray. There are pitfalls business owners should know about before they expand. For example, merging two very different types of businesses, as illustrated in the image, can present unique challenges.

8 Things Every Business Owner Should Know Before Expanding

Expanding your business is an exciting leap. It means you’re doing something right and are ready for the next big move. But as thrilling as growth...

business strategy
A couple in their mid-sixties frolics on a white sandy beach, while, in the foreground, a golden piggy bank and gold coins are situated on a piece of driftwood, representing retirement savings. The couple is carefree knowing they've saved for their later years.

Mandated Retirement Funds: What It Means for Your Business

Retirement planning plays a crucial role in both supporting your employees' financial futures and keeping your business compliant with evolving state...

payroll + hr + compliance retirement
A small business owner uses her downtime for self-development to participate in a leadership workshop.

Turn Downtime into Growth: Practical Tips for Small Business Owners

As a business owner, you're used to the hustle—juggling multiple responsibilities, solving problems, and keeping the business moving forward. But...

business strategy
A laptop on a desk with YPD's isolved employee calendar displayed. A cloud-based payroll system streamlines time-off requests, approvals, and tracking and ensures compliance with paid leave laws.

Why Paid Leave Laws Matter for Small Business Owners

Paid leave laws have become a critical aspect of employee benefits, especially for small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs). These laws are designed...

payroll + hr + compliance
An team member enjoys using an employee self-serve app on his mobile device from the comfort of his own living room.

Small Businesses Save Time and Money with Employee Self-Serve

In today’s fast-paced business environment, small and medium-sized businesses are constantly seeking ways to streamline operations and reduce costs....

Worried and frustrated over a business failure, a small business owner holds his face in his hands as two other team members look on. Business owners can learn valuable lessons from mistakes they've made.

7 Lessons Learned from Business Failures

As a CPA, I've witnessed the highs and lows of various businesses. Some soar to incredible heights, while others face the unfortunate reality of...

business strategy
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