Getting the Most From Your Tax Appointment

By Steven Liebold, EA

Ideally, preparation for your tax appointment should begin in January of the tax year you’re working with. Right after the new year, set up a safe storage location – a file drawer, a cupboard, a safe, etc. As you receive pertinent records, file them right away, before they’re forgotten or lost. By making the practice a habit, you’ll find your job a lot easier when your actual appointment date rolls around.

Cut Energy Costs and Finance Your Energy Efficiency Upgrades at 0%

On-Bill Financing (OBF) is a program being offered by a growing number of utilities in an effort to get small businesses to become more energy efficient. In San Diego, SDG&E’s OBF program covers 100% of the energy efficiency equipment and installation costs (after rebates and incentives) through an unsecured loan to the customer at 0% interest. The customer repays the loan through their regular utility bill. In many cases, the monthly loan payment is completely offset by the energy savings. Once the loan is repaid, the business keeps the monthly savings, helping their bottom line.

Is Parking Free at Your Business?

Interesting debate going on at the blog from local business The Linkery. They write:

When you go to the store, for example, the business gives it up for free and everybody pays for it in more expensive goods whether they drive to the store or not. Read more…

Live IRS Broadcast Explaining Employment Taxes on Tips

The IRS Small Business/Self-Employed Division is presenting “Collecting Employer Taxes on Tips” live on September 29 at 11 a.m. It is great for employers, tax professionals, and those who oversee payroll for service businesses.

Starting a Project? Maybe Kickstarter Can Help

You may have heard about KickStarter already. SBDC and CITD staff learned about them after hearing about a Facebook competitor who used KickStarter to fund their start-up. Kickstarter is a new way to fund creative ideas and ambitious endeavors. It is powered by a unique all-or-nothing funding method where projects must be fully-funded or no money changes hands. It helps entrepreneurs inspire potential funders (every day folks) to open their wallets by offering smart, fun, and tangible rewards such as products, benefits, and experiences.