Every business owner knows that a solid strategy relies on looking at data rather than reacting to headlines. Lately, however, a series of sensational economic reports have been circulating online. These articles suggest that foreign powers -- specifically China -- are actively "weaponizing" or
How Seattle’s Proposed Public Safety Sales Tax Could Impact Small Businesses
Seattle’s small business owners are once again bracing for potential financial changes as the City Council prepares to vote on a 0.1% public safety sales tax. The measure, expected to pass, would raise Seattle’s total sales tax rate to 10.55% by 2026. This'd make it one of the highest among major US
How Tariffs are Impacting SMBs in Seattle
Small businesses and startups in Seattle are facing rising costs, unpredictable supply chains, and financial pressure due to tariffs on imported goods. From arcade owners to boutique retailers, entrepreneurs are feeling the effects firsthand. Take Gary’s Place, a local waterfront arcade:
7 Tax Law Changes You Need to Know in Seattle in 2025
Here are the top 7 tax law changes — both state and federal — that Washington small business owners need to know about in 2025: 1. Increased B&O Tax Rates & Surcharges (HB 2081) 🚨 Effective Oct 1, 2025, Washington will raise B&O (Business & Occupation) rates across most
The Largest Tax Package in Washington History
Washington State has enacted significant tax reforms under Governor Bob Ferguson's administration, introducing approximately $9 billion in new taxes over the next four years. These changes, aimed at addressing a substantial budget shortfall, have profound implications for small business owners in
How Tariffs Could Impact Your Business and How to Plan Ahead
Tariffs — taxes imposed on imported goods — have been making headlines for years, but many business owners in Seattle still wonder: Do they actually affect me? The short answer is: if your business touches global trade in any form — directly or indirectly — tariffs could have a ripple effect on your
The ITEP Tax Inequality Index: Understanding Washington’s Rank and Its Implications
When discussing state and local tax systems, Washington State often appears as a paradox. It’s known for having no state income tax, an attribute that seems advantageous on the surface. However, according to the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy (ITEP), Washington has the second most
Washington State’s 2025 Tax Proposals
Washington state faces a growing budget deficit, estimated at $10–$12 billion over the next four years. With an operating budget of around $72 billion for the current biennium, this deficit represents a significant gap of approximately 7%. To address this, lawmakers in Olympia are considering new