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.”

Close-up of a person filling out IRS Form W-9 on a wooden desk with other tax documents nearby.

The Small Business Owner’s Guide to W-9 Requirements

When you’re running a business, it’s easy to overlook paperwork—until it causes a problem. The IRS Form W-9 might seem like just another form, but...

payroll + hr + compliance

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...

restaurant business strategy technology

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...

tax strategy business strategy

Learn about the backdoor Roth IRA, a powerful retirement savings strategy for high earners.

Backdoor Roth IRAs: The Hidden Retirement Tool

In the ever-evolving world of finance, there are always new techniques and strategies emerging to help individuals save for their retirement. One...

tax strategy retirement

Learn the crucial difference between profit margin and markup in small business accounting.

Markup and Margin Explained: Stop Pricing Mistakes & Boost Profits

Running a business isn’t just about selling great products or services—you’ve gotta price them right, too. And if you're mixing up markup and profit...

small business accounting restaurant automotive repair

Discover how to successfully incorporate artificial intelligence into your small business.

How to Use Artificial Intelligence (AI) in a Small Business

In today's fast-paced world, small businesses are constantly seeking ways to improve efficiency and productivity. One tool that has gained...

business strategy technology

Learn 3 key tax strategies often overlooked by CPAs.

Top 3 Tax Strategies Your CPA Could Be Missing

As a firm that has been in existence for 60 years, we’ve seen all there is to see in reviewing tax returns in the marketplace. Some are a little… out...

tax strategy

Learn how transition your small business for a successful exit.

Small Business Exit Strategy: A Guide to Transitioning Your Company

Are you a small business owner considering transitioning out of your company? This is a significant milestone, and careful planning is key to a...

small business accounting business strategy retirement

Learn how S Corporations are taxed and whether it's the right choice for your business.

How Do S Corporations Get Taxed?

One of most frequent questions we hear from business owners is around how an S Corporation works. Now, almost every business we work with has a tax...

tax strategy

Set realistic and achievable goals for your small business with the SMART goal-setting approach.

How to Set Realistic and Achievable Goals for Your Small Business

No matter the size or industry, every business can benefit from clear goals that align with its vision and values. Delve into the importance of...

business strategy

Learn about the Paid Time Off Law in Illinois for 2024—exceptions, major changes, and when employees can take PTO.

What You Need to Know About the 2024 Paid Time Off Law in Illinois

Are you ready for some important information about the new paid time off (PTO) law in Illinois? Well, you've come to the right place! Effective...

payroll + hr + compliance business strategy

The Top Trends for Small Businesses in 2024

Are you ready to dive into the future of small businesses? Today, we're here to bring you the top trends you can expect to see in 2024. Cybersecurity...