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.”

A small business owner carefully reviewing financial options on a laptop, reflecting on the key question: “Do I need the expertise of a CPA, or is QuickBooks Live enough for my business?” The setting includes a modern office with bookshelves, symbolizing the research and decision-making process in choosing the right bookkeeping solution.

CPA vs. QuickBooks Live: Which Bookkeeping Solution Is Right for You?

QuickBooks can be a vital tool for small business owners, office managers, or anyone who needs to log financials and back-office tasks. It’s so...

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Small business owner waits to hear from her accountant.

Can’t get ahold of your accountant? Why communication is SO important for a CPA

Valentine’s Day often puts February’s focus squarely on your relationships. And while all the talk this month is about ROMANTIC relationships, here’s...

small business accounting

A monthly accountant provides year-round guidance and real tax strategy.

What's the difference between a monthly accountant and an annual accountant?

This time of year, everyone needs an accountant, but what’s the actual difference between utilizing a monthly accountant VS an annual accountant?...

small business accounting tax strategy

Stressed small business owner in a white shirt sitting at a desk, holding his head in frustration while looking at a laptop and printed financial documents—representing confusion or overwhelm around business finances.

The 3 BIG Reasons Business Owners Fire Their Accountant

No one wants to fire their accountant. Or, maybe more accurately, it takes an awful lot to fire your accountant. Why? Well, a few reasons. It’s a...

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An accounting team and a small business should be a good fit for one another.

Who isn't a good fit to work with Kaizen?

Some CPA firms take everyone, and we mean everyone. That’s never worked for us. We’re looking for a specific type of client. We know what you’re...

small business accounting business strategy

A small business owners get some of the best advice from her accountant.

Need advice? Why an accountant might be the best advisor you aren’t using (yet)

Running a small business is hard. While some decisions might be easy, there are so many times when it feels like just a little bit of advice from...

small business accounting business strategy

It's important to have an accounting team that understands your business and your goals and that you feel confident that we're here to help you succeed.

What we do together in the first 90 days

Typically, when you have a new accountant, they employ the SALY (Same As Last Year) method. Meaning, they look at what was done in the past and try...

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The Profit First method puts profit before expenses.

Why we’re a pro Profit First CPA firm

Most CPA firms don’t encourage the Profit First model, here’s why we do. Profit First is a book written by Mike Michalowicz on how to properly budget...

profit first business strategy

Illinois Minimum Wage is increasing January 1

Effective January 1, 2023, the minimum wage in Illinois will increase for tipped and non-tipped employees.

payroll + hr + compliance

Midwest winters often mean more auto accidents. Keeping a cool head after an accident can keep everyone safer.

5 ways to stay safe after a winter car accident

The days are short. The air is cold. And the roads are often slick with rain, snow, or ice.

small business accounting insurance

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...