One of the most common crises small business owners face is the separation of personal vs business expenses. Especially when you're starting out as a sole proprietor, you may not immediately create a separate bank account or even apply for a business credit card. However, that's usually where the
When can you start filing taxes in 2024?
The official date for filing your 2023 taxes in 2024 hasn't been officially announced by the IRS yet, but based on recent years, you can expect to start filing sometime in late January. Here's what we know so far: While we don't have a specific date yet, it's safe to say you can likely start
$200M Deficit & Seattle’s Stabilization Efforts
Seattle's Revenue and Forecast Council (RFC) released a report in November 2022 that projected a $141 million shortfall in the city's 2023-2024 budget. The RFC also projected that the city would face an additional $82.3 million shortfall in the following two years, bringing the total budget hole to
When an Employee Asks for a Raise and You Can’t Afford It
As a small business owner, you know that every dollar counts. So when an employee asks for a raise, it can be a tough decision. You want to keep your employees happy and motivated, but you also don't want to put your business in financial jeopardy. If you're in this situation, here are a few
What Rising Interest Rates Means For Homebuyers And Sellers
Interest rates have been on the rise lately, and many are left wondering what it means for them. For homebuyers, it could mean that mortgages are more expensive. For sellers, it could mean that they get less for their homes. Here's a look at how interest rates are affecting the housing market. 1.
Creating A Retirement Plan When You’re Self-Employed
When you are self-employed, retirement planning can feel like an afterthought. It's easy to feel like there aren't enough hours in the day to tackle everything you need to do as an independent business owner. Even so, creating a solid retirement plan is essential. A strong retirement plan can help
How to Survive During an Economic Downturn
When an economic downturn happens, it can have a significant impact on people’s lives. Financial hardship caused by a recession can affect your ability to meet basic needs like housing, food, and fuel. We all know that bad times won’t last forever, but what can you do if you're facing financial
Tax Loopholes to Keep in Mind this Season
Tax laws in the United States are complex and it's one of the many reasons there are as many tax loopholes that are. However, it's also why myriad taxpayers wind up paying more money than they need to and why it's advisable to enlist the services of an experienced financial advisor to maximize your