News & editorial
From the editorial desk, 2017
Archive of pieces from the editorial desk dated 2017.
Pass-Through Deduction: What the New Tax Law Says
This pass-through deduction guide explains the new 20 percent tax break for business owners, who qualifies, and the limits in the law.
Seasonal Employee Rules: Hiring for the Holiday Rush
Seasonal employee rules for holiday hires: federal minimum wage, overtime, youth limits, Form I-9 and Form W-4 basics, in plain words.
SBA Disaster Loans: How Businesses Apply for Relief
SBA disaster loans give low-interest money to businesses hurt by a declared disaster. See who qualifies, loan limits, deadlines and how to apply.
Credit Freeze: What Business Owners Should Know
A credit freeze blocks new accounts in your name. Learn how to place one at Equifax, Experian and TransUnion, and what it does not cover.
WOSB Certification: Federal Contracts for Women Owners
WOSB certification lets women-owned small firms compete for set-aside federal contracts. Learn who qualifies, what to file and how to start in 2017.
Business License Requirements: Federal, State and Local
Business license requirements depend on what you sell, where you work and who regulates you. Learn how to check federal, state and local rules.
Workers Compensation Insurance: What Employers Must Carry
Workers compensation insurance rules differ by state. Here is how a small employer finds out what applies, with Texas as the one big exception.
Ransomware Protection: Backup Steps for Small Firms
Ransomware protection for small firms: offline backups, patching and staff habits that limit the damage of an attack. Steps from US-CERT and the FTC.
Trademark Search: Check a Name Before You Brand
A trademark search in the free USPTO database shows if a business name or logo is already taken. Here is how to run one before you brand.
Partnership Tax Return Due Date: The New March 15 Rule
Partnership tax return due date: calendar-year partnerships now file Form 1065 by March 15. Here is the rule, the change, and what late filing costs.
Data Breach Notification Laws: A State by State Primer
Data breach notification laws differ by state. Learn who must be told after a breach, how fast, and what the FTC advises small firms to do.
W-2 Filing Deadline: January 31 Rules for Employers
The W-2 filing deadline for 2016 wages is January 31, 2017, on paper or online. See who must meet it, how extensions work, and the penalty tiers.