CT Expert Insights: Recent Episodes
Wolters Kluwer
Listen to CT Expert Insights for advice, tips, and tools to help start, run, and grow your business no matter the location. Topics covered in this series include strategy, incorporation, business licenses, compliance, and much more. We also feature interviews with business thought leaders & industry experts.
Expert Insights has a podcast series on helping business leaders understand how to comply with the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) and its Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reporting requirements.
Organizations throughout the U.S. are studying what they must do to be in compliance with the federal requirements outlined in the CTA. In addition, New York has its own rules for reporting beneficial ownership information. So how much similarity is there between the CTA and the New York regulations and what additional rules do you need to comply with in the Empire State? CT Corporation Senior Manager for Government Relations Alan Stachura joins us to discuss these questions and more.
For additional information and resources:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/ct-corporation/beneficial-ownership-information
Expert Insights has a podcast series on helping business leaders understand how to comply with the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) and its Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reporting requirements.
The Treasury Department's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, or FinCEN, recently issued new guidance on whether dissolved businesses still need to file BOI reports. It seems like a simple question but the answer can vary depending on the details of your dissolution. CT Corporation Publications Attorney Sandra Feldman helps us sort it all out.
For more information and resources:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/ct-corporation/beneficial-ownership-information
Expert Insights has a podcast series on helping business leaders understand how to comply with the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) and its Beneficial Ownership Information reporting requirements.
There are multiple ways to submit beneficial ownership information in compliance with the Corporate Transparency Act. To help ease any concerns about sending the information, the government is offering the option to enter the data through a FinCEN ID.
CT Corporation Publications Attorney Sandra Feldman explains how the FinCEN ID works, the advantages of using it, and some reasons you might want to think twice about it.
For additional information and resources:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/ct-corporation/beneficial-ownership-information
Expert Insights has a podcast series on helping business leaders understand how to comply with the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) and its Beneficial Ownership Information reporting requirements.
Because compliance with the CTA begins this year, millions of businesses are dealing with the reporting requirements for the first time. Which businesses need to provide Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) and which ones are exempt? For those that do need to report, what information do they need to provide? How soon do they need to provide it? And where can business owners turn for help?
In this episode Ani John, Associate Director of Product Management at CT Corporation, answers all of these questions and explains how CT's award-winning BOI platform guides you painlessly through the reporting process in just a fraction of the time it would take to do on your own.
For additional information and resources:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/ct-corporation/beneficial-ownership-information
Expert Insights has a podcast series on helping business leaders understand how to comply with the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) and its Beneficial Ownership Information reporting requirements.
In this episode, George May, Vice President of Small Business Segment at CT Corporation, walks us through which entities need to comply with the CTA and which ones are exempt, the reporting challenges unique to startups, how best to protect the sensitive information of beneficial owners, and why the smartest move is to comply as soon as possible.
For more information and resources: https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/ct-corporation/resources/corporate-transparency-act-resources
Expert Insights has a podcast series on helping business leaders understand how to comply with the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) and its Beneficial Ownership Information reporting requirements.
In March, a federal judge in Alabama declared the CTA unconstitutional. So does this mean that non-exempt businesses are no longer required to comply? Absolutely not. CT Corporation Associate Director of Government Relations Mike Powell joins us to explain the court ruling and why it actually impacts very few businesses.
Powell also addresses concerns that the reporting requirements are overwhelming for some business owners and whether the government will be aggressively penalizing businesses that do not comply correctly.
For more information and resources: https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/ct-corporation/resources/corporate-transparency-act-resources
Expert Insights has a podcast series on helping business leaders understand how to comply with the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) and its Beneficial Ownership Information reporting requirements.
The Corporate Transparency Act is the most significant piece of federal legislation impacting business in more than a century, and the key provision requiring businesses to submit beneficial ownership information begins this year. So what do law firms need to know about the CTA and the type of help their clients will need and expect?
In this episode, Ross Aronowitz, Vice President and Head of Law Firms Segments at CT Corporation, details the concerns and challenges facing law firms related to the CTA, how to address them effectively, and why helping businesses comply with the new law could be a fantastic opportunity for law firms.
For more information and resources: https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/ct-corporation/resources/corporate-transparency-act-resources
Expert Insights has a podcast series on helping business leaders understand how to comply with the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) and its Beneficial Ownership Information reporting requirements.
In this episode, we examine compliance requirements for investment funds. CT Corporation Major and Strategic Accounts Associate Director Danielle Bennett explains what information investment funds need to report and when they need to report it. She also addresses privacy concerns when submitting sensitive information, how to start a process for reporting, and how to determine if your investment fund is exempt.
For additional information and resources:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/ct-corporation/resources/corporate-transparency-act-resources
Expert Insights has a podcast series on helping business leaders understand how to comply with the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), and specifically, how to file Beneficial Ownership Information reports.
We begin by examining whether your business is exempt from this requirement. Today, CT Corporation Vice President and Head of Corporations Domingo Vazquez explains which entities qualify for exemptions, with a special focus on large operating companies, subsidiaries of exempt companies, and inactive entities.
For more information and resources:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/ct-corporation/resources/corporate-transparency-act-resources
The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) is now in effect and tens of millions of business owners are required to comply with it by filing Beneficial Ownership Information reports. But which businesses need to file these reports and which ones are exempt? What information must be submitted to comply with the CTA? And why might a third party provider be a good way to ensure you are in compliance? CT Corporation Publications Attorney Sandra Feldman has those answers and many more in our new podcast.
For additional information and resources:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/ct-corporation/beneficial-ownership-information
Dissolution is not a topic many business owners like to think about, but if the time comes, it's important to know what to expect. In this edition, CT Corporation Account Manager Mike Enright explains the different types of dissolution and how to approach that decision as a corporation or an LLC. He also walks us through the formal steps of dissolution in most states and what information you'll need to complete the process.
For additional information and resources, please visit:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/expert-insights/the-administrative-dissolution-and-reinstatement-of-business-entities
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/ct-corporation/business-entity-dissolution-or-withdrawal
Engineering firms must navigate a number of government regulations, and that includes obtaining a business license. CT Corporation's Hans Howk walks us through the regulatory environment for engineering businesses, what the process for getting a business license looks like, and the significant consequences for non-compliance.
For more information and resources:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/expert-insights/business-license-pitfalls-for-architecture-and-engineering-companies
Before you start building your architecture business, make sure you have the proper licensing and other compliance in place. CT Corporation Content Management Associate Claire Corbin explains what you need to do to acquire your license, some of the rules you need to follow when naming your business, what the penalties are for non-licensure, and much more.
For additional information and resources:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/expert-insights/architecture-firm-business-licensing-and-other-legal-requirements
In late September, the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, or FinCEN, finally released specifics on how small businesses need to comply with a new reporting rule through the Corporate Transparency Act. CT Corporation Publications Attorney Sandra Feldman explains what information the government requires, which businesses are exempt, and when you need to have all of your information submitted.
For addition information, please visit:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/expert-insights/fincen-issues-final-rule-implementing-the-reporting-requirements-of-the-corporate-transparency-act
In our most recent podcast, we walked through all the steps needed to select and establish a name for your corporation of LLC. But sometimes it becomes necessary to change the business name. CT Corporation Publications Attorney Sandra Feldman shares some reasons businesses seek a name change, steps to take before making a formal change, how to make it official, and what sort of compliance is required afterwards.
For additional information and resources, please visit: https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/ct-corporation/business-naming
Naming your business involves a lot more than coming up with something your customers will remember. CT Corporation Manager of Customer Service Tim Jensen explains what the government will require from you in a business name, why you might not get to use your first choice, and what words you can and cannot use. He also explains how to reserve a name before your business opens and how to proceed if you do business in multiple states.
For additional information and resources: https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/expert-insights/entity-naming-requirements-for-corporations-llcs
At the beginning of August, Delaware law changed to offer more liability protections for corporation officials when there's been a breach of duties. With so many businesses formally registered in Delaware, this will have an impact throughout the country. CT Corporation Publications Attorney Sandra Feldman explains what exactly has changed, the impact the change is likely to have, and what business owners need to do to comply with the updated law.
For additional information and resources: https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/expert-insights/delaware-corporations-can-now-limit-the-liability-of-senior-officers
Choosing the right entity for your business is one of the most important decisions a business owner makes. In this edition, we focus on corporations. Should you establish your business as a corporation? And if you do, is it better for your business to be taxed as a C Corporation or an S Corporation? CT Corporation Publications Attorney Sandra Feldman explains what characteristics you need to qualify as a corporation and walks us through the tax advantages and disadvantages of filing as a C Corp or an S Corp.
Third party logistics providers, or 3PL's, must meet strict compliance requirements, particularly those doing business in the pharmaceutical industry. In this edition, Wolters Kluwer Manager of Content Management Hans Howk explains what the licensing requirements are for 3PL's and which government agencies will be making sure you are in compliance. He also explains the penalties for licensure non-compliance and how CT Corporation can help you navigate all the complexities that come with this designation.
For additional resources, please visit:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/expert-insights/third-party-logistics-provider-licensing-requirements
Business identity theft is growing quickly but protecting yourself before someone tries to attack you, and knowing what to do if they succeed, can save you a lot of money and stress. Andrew La Marca, director of fraud and compliance at Dun & Bradstreet, tells us how bad actors target businesses, how to stay vigilant for these attacks, and what to do if your business is victimized.
For additional resources, please visit:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/expert-insights/the-rising-risk-of-business-identity-theft
DIYMarketers.com Publisher Ivana Taylor shares her "winflation" mindset that she encourages all business owners to have during this time of inflation. Instead of focusing solely on cutting costs and raising prices, Taylor urges us to listen for other ways our customers wish we could help them and come up with enticing incentives for them to do more business with us. Taylor also highlights the value of finding ways to collaborate with other businesses and following up with existing and prospective customers to meet their needs.
For additional information and resources, please visit: https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/ct-corporation/legal-solutions-small-business
Entrepreneur and speaker Ramon Ray joins us to discuss how employers can attract and keep the best talent at a time when so many businesses are badly understaffed. He also outlines some best practices to make telework good for your productivity and for employee morale. Finally, Ray offers some helpful hints on how to make yourself the best advertisement for your business.
Business licensing can get complicated for insurance businesses, so knowing how to stay compliant is critical. In this edition of "Expert Insights," CT Corporation's Coby Ringgenberg takes us through the importance of insurance firms being properly licensed, the consequences of non-compliance, and how to start and complete the licensing process.
For additional resources, please visit:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/ct-corporation/business-license-solutions
Durable medial equipment (DME) providers are among the most heavily-regulated businesses in the nation. Why is that and what do DME business owners need to know about getting licensed, and meeting state and federal requirements for operation? CT Corporation Manager of Content Management Hans Howk walks us through the critical steps of compliance and how to stay in good standing over the long haul.
For additional resources on this topic, please visit: https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/expert-insights/durable-medical-equipment-licensing-requirements
The government will soon be imposing a new beneficial ownership reporting rule as part of the Corporate Transparency Act, which was passed by Congress last year. CT Corporation Publications Attorney Sandra Feldman explains which entities will need to comply with the new rule, what potential exemptions exist, and what information the government is going to want in these reports.
For additional resources: https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/expert-insights/cta-reporting-requirements-what-companies-and-law-firms-should-do-to-prepare
Small business expert Gene Marks offers business owners timely advice on how to handle inflation, supply challenges, and labor shortages in the new year. Marks also offers encouraging news on the affordability of AI tools that improve efficiency and will improve the bottom line. And he gives business owners a tip on how to get funds from the Small Business Administration at a good interest rate...but you need to act within the next couple of weeks.
Since the start of the pandemic, Special Purpose Acquisition Companies, or SPAC's, have exploded in popularity for businesses and celebrity influencers. But what exactly is a SPAC? What advantages does it have compared to a more traditional initial public offering? What risks should you know about? And how could it impact your business? We get answers to these questions and more with CT Corporation Senior Director Amit Rajvanshy.
For additional resources:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/expert-insights/the-rise-of-the-spac
Choosing the right entity is one of the most important decisions a business owner can make, and an entity that will protect you from having to pay corporate taxes on top of personal income taxes can be very attractive. It's known as an S Corporation. CT Corporation Manager of Customer Service Tim Jensen explains what it takes to be eligible to file as an S Corporation, how this entity differs from other entity types, and what the ongoing compliance requirements look like.
For additional information and resources, please visit:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/expert-insights/s-corporations-offer-advantages-and-disadvantages
Could a holding company be the key to making sure your business survives tough stretches and unexpected interruptions like a pandemic? CT Corporation Publications Attorney Sandra Feldman explains what holding companies and operating companies are and walks us through the major benefits and possible drawbacks of choosing this kind of business structure.
For additional information and resources, please visit:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/expert-insights/using-a-holding-company-operating-company-structure-to-help-mitigate-risk
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/expert-insights/getting-grip-holding-companies
One of the first critical decisions for any aspiring business owner is determining the right business formation or incorporation for you. But why is it important? What are the different options for incorporation and what should be the most important factors in choosing one? We discuss all of this and the incorporation process with CT Corporation Customer Service Manager Tim Jensen.
For additional information on business formations, please visit https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/ct-corporation/business-formation-solutions
A record number of new businesses started in 2020 but many aspiring entrepreneurs are still reluctant to chase their dreams because of their fear of failure. CT Corporation Manager of Customer Service Tim Jensen joins us to explain how that fear is actually a good thing that can be leveraged to make your new business even better. He also offers advice on how to translate prior business failures into future success.
For additional resources on the this subject, please visit:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/ct-corporation/legal-solutions-small-business
Choosing a name for your business is one of the most important decisions any business owner will make. You want it to be memorable and to explain exactly what you do. But naming a business also needs to follow the rules in your state. What do you do if some other business already has the name you want? What is the difference between a legal name and the name the public knows you by? And what words should you be careful not to include in your business name? We discuss all of those questions and much more with Tim Jensen, manager of customer service at CT Corporation.
For additional information and resources on naming your business, please visit:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/ct-corporation/business-naming
Over the past 18 months, Special Purpose Acquisition Companies, or SPAC's, have exploded in popularity for businesses and celebrity influencers. But what exactly is a SPAC? What advantages does it have compared to a more traditional initial public offering? What risks should you know about? And how could it impact your business? We get answers to these questions and more with CT Corporation Senior Director Amit Rajvanshy.
For additional resources:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/expert-insights/the-rise-of-the-spac
It is vital for business owners to protect themselves and their firms through a formal business entity. The limited liability company, or LLC, is an extremely popular choice, but why is that? CT Corporation Customer Service Manager Tim Jensen joins us to explain the many benefits of LLC's and the due diligence you need to perform before making your choice official. Jensen also walks us through the steps of setting up an LLC and discusses the ongoing responsibilities that come with it.
For additional resources on this topic, please visit:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/ct-corporation/llc-limited-liability-company-formation-services
Some businesses are looking to acquire other firms weakened by the pandemic and others are looking to merge to stay afloat. But as these opportunities present themselves, what do business owners need to know before completing a deal? CT Corporation Publications Attorney Sandra Feldman shares five critical pieces of information you will need before signing any agreement.
For additional resources on this subject, please visit:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/ct-corporation/legal-solutions-small-business
Some business owners get a very unwelcome surprise when they find out a UCC-1 filing was made against their company. When false, such filings make a business look like a bad bet for lenders and other financial providers. So how do these filings happen? What can be done to set the record straight? And how can you find out whether your business is impacted before the lenders do? We get answers from CT Corporation Publications Attorney Sandra Feldman.
For more information on UCC-1 filings:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/expert-insights/the-courts-are-clear-ucc-1s-must-be-authorized-to-be-effective
If your business did not have employees working from home before the pandemic, there's a very good chance you quickly figured it out in March of 2020. Now that the business world is reopening, many business owners are planning to have employees continue working from home. But what do we need to know to remain compliant when it comes to business licensing and other obligations? CT Corporation Compliance Business Consultant Donia Wade tells us what we need to know to make these changes as smoothly as possible.
For more information on business licenses, please visit https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/ct-corporation/business-license-solutions
With a pandemic easing and an economy fighting to recover, law firms are also experiencing a lot of changes. What are the biggest changes that firms are facing? Which parts of the world are seeing the most change? And what opportunities and challenges are law firms seeing right now? We get answers from Devlin Fisher, global sales support manager at CT Corporation.
Additional resources on this subject from CT Corporation: https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/ct-corporation/global-corporate-services
CT Corporation Compliance Business Consultant Donia Wade walks us through the key steps for acquiring and maintaining a business license. She also offers best practices for staying on top of license compliance issues and making the process for renewing or adding licenses as simple as possible.
For additional resources, please visit:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/ct-corporation/business-license-solutions
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/expert-insights/the-first-step-in-business-license-compliance
Whether retiring, selling a business, or having to close, knowing how to properly dissolve a business is critically important. CT Corporation Manager of Customer Service Tim Jensen walks us through the key steps of dissolution, the risks created by not going through the process properly, and why it's good to understand all of this before we actually need to do it.
For additional resources, please visit:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/ct-corporation/business-entity-dissolution-or-withdrawal
Natalie Mendell and Alejandro Martinez of the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce discuss their proactive approach to helping businesses in New York City after a year of uncertainty. Martell and Martinez discuss their program of going door-to-door to meet with business owners, learn their concerns, and point them towards resources that will address their concerns over financing, leasing, and more.
For more information on legal solutions for small businesses, please visit:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/ct-corporation/legal-solutions-small-business
CT Corporation Manager of Customer Service Tim Jensen explains the many benefits of incorporation, how to choose the right entity type for your business, and how to navigate the actual process of incorporation.
For additional information on business formations, please visit https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/ct-corporation/business-formation-solutions
For more and more law firms, growth and expansion often mean doing work in other countries. In this edition of Expert Insights, CT’s Global Sales Support Manager, Rob McHugh, discusses the opportunities and challenges of doing work internationally, and how law firms can structure their internal operations to best address growing global legal work.
For additional resources on this subject from CT Corporation:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/ct-corporation/global-corporate-services
As businesses continue to look for global opportunities, the law firms that support them can face their own set of challenges. More and more client work contains an international component for which law firms must be prepared to handle. In this edition of Expert Insights, CT’s Global Sales Support Manager, Devlin Fisher, discusses how the global pandemic has affected business activity and the marketplace, what practice areas are seeing the biggest growth, tackling the global components to client requests, and common issues law firms run into.
Additional resources on this subject from CT Corporation: https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/ct-corporation/global-corporate-services
Millions of people were forced to work from home in 2020 and now some businesses plan to keep it that way. But what do business leaders need to know to stay compliant when it comes to teleworking employees? CT Corporation’s Compliance Business Consultant Donia Wade explains the compliance areas that you need to know about, when a business license is required for these situations, and what tools can make your compliance easier.
For more information on business licenses, please visit https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/ct-corporation/business-license-solutions
When starting a new business, you have options on what type of entity to establish. Two common considerations are a sole proprietorship and a limited liability corporation. What are the advantages of each, what are the possible downsides, and how will this decision impact taxes for your business? We discuss all these questions and more with CT Corporation Publications Attorney Sandra Feldman.
For more information:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/ct-corporation/business-formation-solutions
After much debate, the COVID relief bill is now law and it includes more than $284 billion of relief for small businesses through a third round of the Paycheck Protection Program. CT Corporation Publications Attorney Sandra Feldman joins us to explain what is different about this round of PPP loans, why most of the changes are good news for business owners, and how you can apply for relief.
After listening to the podcast, please read our additional resource, "Paycheck Protection Program 2021: What you need to know." https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/expert-insights/paycheck-protection-program-2021-what-you-need-to-know
On January 1, a new law called the Corporate Transparency Act went into effect. It requires many businesses to file what's known as a beneficial ownership report. CT Corporation Publications attorney Sandra Feldman explains why the reports are needed, which businesses need to file them, and how soon that needs to be done.
For additional information on understanding beneficial ownership, please visit these resources:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/expert-insights/the-corporate-transparency-act-imposes-new-beneficial-ownership-reporting-obligations
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/expert-insights/ubo-reporting-requirements-for-multi-jurisdictional-entities
Small business expert Gene Marks looks forward to what 2021 has in store for small business owners. Marks explains the Paycheck Protection Program changes available in the latest COVID relief legislation, how businesses can weather more shutdowns, and what new opportunities are emerging from all the upheaval in our economy.
For more information on small businesses, please visit the CT Corporation website:
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/ct-corporation/legal-solutions-small-business
We experienced a lot of sudden change in 2020, but hopefully we've also learned how to lead through times of change as well. Vested Group founder Joel Patterson reflects on the lessons learned from the past year and how to lead future change with clarity and empathy.
BizFilings Service Manager Mike Enright tells us why scammers frequently target business owners, what the most common scams look like, and how best to protect yourself and your business.
Big Ideas for Small Business, Inc. President Barbara Weltman shares timely advice on how best to prepare your business for tax season and how the pandemic and the CARES Act may impact your tax planning and other year-end decisions.
If you are ready to make your side hustle a business, it is critical to choose a formal business entity to protect you from liability. Author, columnist, and business owner Chris Corosa explains why every business needs liability protection, how your income and tax status impact your choice of entity, and how he has personally navigated entity decisions throughout his career.
Eliot Gajadhar, director of product development at 1-800Accountant, explains the payroll tax holiday currently available to business owners, the pros and cons of signing up for the holiday, and how employers can best decide whether this opportunity is right for them.
After months of employees working from home, many business owners are seeing productivity as good or even better than it was before. But before you plan to make a telework a permanent policy, what do you need to know? Phyllis Reagin, leadership consultant and former Global Head of Diversity and Inclusion at Warner Brothers Entertainment, explains how to keep your personnel feeling connected and effective while not stressing them out as they juggle family responsibilities.
Access our full library of podcasts for small businesses
https://www.bizfilings.com/toolkit/guides/podcasts
The pandemic created many challenges for business owners but it also brings new opportunities to provide products and services to customers in new ways. Jim Blasingame, host of the "Small Business Advocate Show," joins us to explain why new business niches are exploding right now, how to get your customers to tell you their changing needs, and how business to business relationships can be especially valuable.
You want your new business to grow, but the desire to realize your goals and dreams can leave you susceptible to making critical mistakes. Shadow CEO Athan Slotkin joins us to discuss six different mistakes you'll want to avoid as a new CEO and how to navigate around them successfully.
What is the best legal status for your business? Is a sole proprietorship right for you or would a statutory entity like an LLC or corporation be better? We discuss all the critical differences, including tax implications, with CT Corporation Publications Attorney Sandra Feldman.
Selling customers a good value rather than just a great product or service is the key to long-term success and customer satisfaction. Prof. Oded Koenigsberg, co-author of "The Ends Game," explains how to maximize value, shares what metrics help to prove that value, and how to help existing and prospective clients see that value.
Association of Corporate Growth President and CEO Tom Bohn joins us to explain how middle market companies are surviving and thriving in the pandemic. He also discusses some of the frustrations middle market businesses have faced in trying to find a government program where they can qualify for loans.
Once you decide to establish a statutory business entity there are five critical questions you need to answer. CT Corporation Publications Attorney Sandra Feldman walks us through decisions like which entity is best for you, where to set it up, what to name your business and more. Feldman also explains the different considerations when answering each of these critical questions.Once you decide to establish a statutory business entity there are five critical questions you need to answer. CT Corporation Publications Attorney Sandra Feldman walks us through decisions like which entity is best for you, where to set it up, what to name your business and more. Feldman also explains the different considerations when answering each of these critical questions.
After months of employees working from home, many business owners are seeing productivity as good or even better than it was before. But before you plan to make a telework a permanent policy, what do you need to know? Phyllis Reagin, leadership consultant and former Global Head of Diversity and Inclusion at Warner Brothers Entertainment, explains how to keep your personnel feeling connected and effective while not stressing them out as they juggle family responsibilities.
If you are ready to make your side hustle a business, it is critical to choose a formal business entity to protect you from liability. Author, columnist, and business owner Chris Corosa explains why every business needs liability protection, how your income and tax status impact your choice of entity, and how he has personally navigated entity decisions throughout his career.
At first, business owners planned to hang on a few weeks to ride out the COVID-19 pandemic. But those weeks have turned into many months with no obvious end in sight. What are the keys to surviving this prolonged challenge and what are the secrets of the businesses thriving right now? We discuss it all with Barbara Weltman, president of Big Ideas for Small Business, Inc.
The COVID-19 pandemic is requiring changes in many industries, and that certainly includes the legal arena. Legal Mosaic CEO Mark Cohen describes which changes are already happening and which ones will be coming soon. Cohen also explains how business owners can determine whether they actually need to hire a lawyer and whether it makes sense for businesses to have their own legal department.
All business owners need to choose a formal business entity, but licensed professionals have two additional options to consider. In this edition, BizFilings Service Manager Mike Enright explains professional corporations and professional limited liability companies, how they differ from more common entities, and what you need to know before choosing which one is right for you.
Keeping your business open and thriving in the midst of a pandemic is a challenge, and the last thing you need is for your state to remove your status as a business in good standing. BizFilings Service Manager Mike Enright explains why keeping up with your compliance requirements is especially critical right now, what headaches come with no longer being a business in good standing, and which resources are available to keep you compliant.
Like other businesses, licensed professionals are actively seeking new clients. One way to make your services stand out from your competitors is to offer specialized services like incorporation and licensing through a third-party partnership. CT Corporation/BizFilings Customer Service Manager Tim Jensen explains how the partnerships work and why they benefit the businesses and the clients.
Access our full library of podcasts for small businesses https://www.bizfilings.com/toolkit/guides/podcasts
For the past several years, many people have been leaving their traditional office jobs and starting their own one-person business. What is responsible for this trend and will we see a massive increase in the wake of the COVID pandemic? Elaine Pofeldt, author of "The Million-Dollar, One-Person Business," joins us to explain how to make your one-person business a success and discuss mistakes you need to avoid.
Many businesses are open again and millions of others are planning to reopen soon. But things will look very different than they did back in March. What steps do you need to take to protect customers and employees? How might your vendor relationships have to change? And how can businesses band together to make reopening as successful as possible for everyone? We get answers from Matt Wagner, vice president of revitalization programs at Main Street America.
New businesses created by people 45-years-old and above have been a growing trend for more than two decades, and in the wake of the pandemic, even more people are wondering if now is the time to make their move. "Ageless Startup" author Rick Terrien explains why middle-age is a great time to launch your own business and walks us through the smart ways to do it.
While you focus on reopening your business, the Federal Trade Commission reports that small business scammers are aggressively on the prowl. Rosario Mendez from the FTC's Bureau of Consumer Protection joins us to discuss the scope of the problem, the different methods that scammers are using to access your data and your money, and what you can do to stop them.
The legal profession is known for being resistant to change but LawSites blogger and podcast host Robert Ambrogi says the ongoing pandemic has forced law firms and courts to adapt in ways that will change the legal system for the better. Ambrogi walks us through seven critical changes - from modernizing the courts to clients and lawyers no longer needing to meet in person to overhauling how law schools train the next generation of attorneys.
Small business owners are facing unprecedented challenges right now, both in enduring shutdowns and preparing to reopen, but there are some best practices for making sure your business survives. In this conversation from March, Big Ideas for Small Business Inc. President Barbara Weltman walked us through some of the many loan programs available to business owners and points out that some of those loans don't even need to be paid back! She also offers examples of how businesses adapted to the new conditions and how this experience may help owners with long-term planning.
Many businesses are open again and millions of others are planning to reopen soon. But things will look very different than they did back in March. What steps do you need to take to protect customers and employees? How might your vendor relationships have to change? And how can businesses band together to make reopening as successful as possible for everyone? We get answers from Matt Wagner, vice president of revitalization programs at Main Street America.
Quintessence Group President Melinda Emerson explains how ramping up your online presence is now critical to your business surviving and possibly thriving. Emerson details how to proceed, whether you have no website or whether you need to improve your website and get serious about social media. She says there will be winners and losers after this recession and how we approach our online efforts can make all the difference.
Small business expert Barry Moltz explains how businesses need to pivot for the next year or longer since many customers will be reluctant to do business in person until the coronavirus threat is behind us. Moltz tells us what changes to expect in customer behavior, how to adapt to them, and how your online engagement will be critical to convincing people that their safety is your highest priority.
Small business owner and author Gene Marks explains the many benefits of the government's Paycheck Protection Program, what to be aware of before you apply for the money, and how to make the process work as smoothly as possible. He also details several other federal programs available to assist business owners. Finally, Marks offers advice on what to do when you open your doors again and outlines the financial lessons every business owner ought to learn from this crisis.
Congress appears close to replenishing funds for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) to give many more small businesses assistance in meeting payroll and other obligations until they are able to reopen. But what can you expect when applying for these forgivable loans? Lisa Ellen Downs owns Ellen's Bridal and Dress Boutique in Wabash, Indiana. She explains some of the challenges in getting financial relief but also how it most likely saved her business.
Emergencies like COVID-19, a fire, or a tornado could force businesses to shut down for long stretches of time. But just because the doors are closed doesn't mean the compliance obligations stop. CT Corporation Publications Attorney Sandra Feldman explains how to respond if your LLC or corporation has to close for a while and details the responsibilities you still have under the law. She also provides critically important tips if your business needs to close permanently.
Description: When the Coronavirus threat got clearer in early March, businesses around the nation suddenly found themselves preparing for massive changes. CT Corporation immediately swung into action, coordinating and collaborating with all 50 states and the District of Columbia to present business owners with the latest critical information. CT Corporation Senior Manager for Government Relations Alan Stachura explains how his team approached this unprecedented challenge and is still the source to follow during this evolving crisis. https://ct.wolterskluwer.com/covid-19-status?v=895087
Small business owners are facing unprecedented uncertainty right now but there are some best practices for making sure your business survives. Big Ideas for Small Business Inc. President Barbara Weltman walks us through some of the many loan programs available and points out that some of those loans don't even need to be paid back! She also offers examples of how businesses are already adapting to the new conditions and how business owners can utilize some of this time to focus on long-term planning.
As millions of Americans suddenly find themselves working from home, what are the best ways for business owners to keep both productivity and morale high at an uncertain time? Matuson Consulting President Roberta Matuson explains how leaders can make their colleagues and employees feel valued from a distance, why flexibility is critical, and how this sudden shift to telework can look different between large and small businesses. Matuson also points out that how you treat your people now will have a big impact on how long you'll have them once things get back to normal.
Once you decide to establish a statutory business entity there are five critical questions you need to answer. CT Corporation Publications Attorney Sandra Feldman walks us through decisions like which entity is best for you, where to set it up, what to name your business and more. Feldman also explains the different considerations when answering each of these critical questions.
Working on clients’ international deals can bring a host of unexpected challenges. Plan for success by anticipating the differences and building them into your deal timeline and workflow. Global Services Expert Bianca Erb discusses the importance of careful planning, respecting cultural differences, and working with an experienced team (on the ground) in multiple countries.
A corporate service provider can serve as your single point of contact to simplify a complex, multi-country deal. A large provider offers the advantages of global-local presence and can make your document requests a priority.
Choosing CT will provide you with a dedicated single point of contact to help project manage the global portion of your transaction or due diligence. To learn more about how CT can help you better manage your global compliance needs, contact a CT representative at (844) 322-6993 (toll-free U.S.).
Change is always coming to your business, but the right leadership approach can embrace that change to build strong teams and foster continued success. Deke Copenhaver, author of "The Changemaker," walks us through the critical attributes of a business leader who embraces change and inspires those around them to give their very best.
Roughly half of startups fail within the first five years, but why does that staggering statistic persist? In their new book, "The Titanic Effect," Indiana University Professors Kim and Todd Saxton explain it's because hidden debts and other issues lurking below the surface often combine to ruin businesses. They also explain how being on the lookout for these icebergs greatly improves your chances for success.
CT Corporation Publications Attorney Sandra Feldman explains what business owners need to know before expanding operations to another state. Feldman walks us through the entity, tax, and licensing issues that must be addressed and also details the penalties for noncompliance.
Printful CEO Davis Siksnans shares how his printing business quickly grew from a small operation to an international success. Siksnans explains how to gauge whether your side gig has the potential to be a success, how to know when it's time to go even bigger, and why aspiring business owners should never do work for free.
Accountability expert Sam Silverstein shares what accountability is and what it isn't and explains how to evaluate the commitment of your team members to your stated values. Silverstein also details how to hire people to build a thriving culture of accountability and why focusing on accountability first often leads to even greater profits.
CT Corporation Publications Attorney Sandra Feldman explains the three most critical elements of a limited liability company, or LLC, and how those apply to a business. Feldman also lays out the consequences for failing to abide by the LLC and details why every business owner in an LLC needs a good operating agreement.
In today's business world, governance needs to be more responsive and nimble than ever, but it helps to know what issues you're likely to face. Attorney Michael Peregrine of McDermott, Will, and Emery walks us through the smart ways for board members to address outside economic and political volatility, innovations within your industry, compliance challenges, and even who ought to be serving on the board in the first place.
Small business expert Gene Marks explains why he believes this will be an "easy" year for businesses thanks to a strong economy. He also offers accounting tips to improve the cash flow for your business, highlights innovations that could be a big help to you, and discusses the biggest mistake small business owners keeps making.
As business owners enter a new decade, it is critical to use all the marketing tools we have for our advantage. GrowBiz Media CEO and President Rieva Lesonsky shares her eight marketing resolutions for 2020. Lesonsky explains how to weave your marketing efforts together more effectively, how to use videos and personalized emails to your advantage, and even how to make micro-influencers work for you.
Shawn Kastle, principal product manager at CT Corporation, introduces us to IntelliChart, a cutting-edge tool that is already revolutionizing work for law firms around the country. Kastle explains why IntelliChart drastically improves efficiency and reduces of tedious data input and how it puts critical information in front of all key personnel with just a keystroke.
Business expert and novelist Diana Kander discusses her new book, "The Curiosity Muscle," and examines the four questions business owners should constantly be asking themselves. Kander also draws on her expertise to offer helpful tips for launching new products - and which tactics to stay away from.
CT Corporation Publications Attorney Sandra Feldman joins us to explain why it is vital for every business to establish a formal entity, the reasons why a business owner would consider changing that entity, and how to go about implementing that change correctly.
It's not easy for business owners to trust other people with the day-to-day oversight of different parts of the business, but for the sake of the business and the business owner, it must be one of your goals. But what does successful scaling look like? Duct Tape Marketing founder John Jantsch shares the ingredients to building a business that can thrive without you.
Do you believe you need to cast the widest possible net for customers or that satisfied customers will naturally recommend your business to their friends? Duct Tape Marketing Founder John Jantsch joins us to explain why narrowing your focus on customers and how you target them is actually a much better strategy. He also shares how to proactively turn happy customers into active ambassadors for your business.
Administrative work and other cumbersome duties gobble up a lot of time and hamper the innovation and productivity of employees. That work still needs to be done, but "Simplify Work" author Jesse Newton reveals how to approach it differently to unleash the full potential of your business.
Small business expert Barbara Weltman provides insights into liability issues and advice on how businesses can help protect themselves.
Know what you need to do before the end of the year in order to take full advantage of the 2019 tax benefits. We get lots of tips from tax expert Barbara Weltman.
Karen Kerrigan, CEO and President of the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Council (SBE), addresses recent deregulatory efforts that are having a positive impact on small businesses and provides an update on which areas the SBE is currently working on with lawmakers.
Shawn Kastle, principal product manager at CT Corporation, introduces us to IntelliChart, a cutting-edge tool that is already revolutionizing work for law firms around the country. Kastle explains why IntelliChart drastically improves efficiency and reduces of tedious data input and how it puts critical information in front of all key personnel with just a keystroke.
Over the past decade, global compliance has evolved from being treated as almost an afterthought by organizations to becoming seen as integral to growth strategy and operational success.
In this week’s CT Expert Insights, Antonio Soler, Vice President and Head of Global Services at CT, describes the worldwide trend towards more regulation on a range of issues, including anti-money laundering, anti-bribery, and data protection. There are also increasing penalties for noncompliance that companies need to be aware of, which can not only impact an organization financially but also negatively affect their reputation and ability to do business.
Soler provides tips on how to efficiently and effectively tackle the challenge of global compliance and gain better oversight for all of a company’s entities around the world.
CT Corporation Director of Data Management John Lieto walks us through the importance of embracing and excelling at master data management. Lieto details what MDM is and why it it is vital for maximizing the potential for your business. He also explains how to avoid some common frustrations with MDM and how to make sure you're doing it right.
In previous generations, law firms told clients how the relationship would work. Today, clients have a lot more control. Lawyerist Co-Founder and CEO Aaron Street explains why the traditional, business-as-usual approach will not work for law firms much longer. He discusses what clients are coming to expect from their lawyers and how firms are adapting to thrive in this changing environment.
Administrative work and other cumbersome duties gobble up a lot of time and hamper the innovation and productivity of employees. That work still needs to be done, but "Simplify Work" author Jesse Newton reveals how to approach it differently to unleash the full potential of your business.
Business expert and novelist Diana Kander discusses her new book, "The Curiosity Muscle," and examines the four questions business owners should constantly be asking themselves. Kander also draws on her expertise to offer helpful tips for launching new products - and which tactics to stay away from.
Small business expert Gene Marks discusses how business owners ought to approach the new year. Marks details how to benefit from changes in the tax laws and properly navigate a volatile stock market. He also shares advice on how business owners can best budget their time in the months ahead.
Amobee CEO Kim Perell shares her amazing story of going from dead broke to building a multi-million dollar company from scratch. Also the author of "The Execution Factor,"Perell then explains why execution is the key to business success and the five components of execution that business owners need to embrace.
Former Cisco Chairman John Chambers shares some of his secrets to success in two decades at the company and tells us why he's now passionate about startups. Chambers details how to lead a business in thorny areas like culture and communication and what ideas may soon change the world.
What is a professional registered agent and why are they a critical asset for your business? CT Corporation Senior Manager Alan Stachura explains the value of a registered agent, how to screen for the best one, and more.
CT Senior Manager Marcia Suelzer walks us through the second half of what law firms need to know to help prepare clients for year-end compliance. In this installment, Suelzer explains the compliance requirement checkups needed when a business makes changes during the year-end review. Learn more: http://ctcorp.co/2zrEZHB
CT Senior Manager Marcia Suelzer walks us through the first of a two-part series on the year-end compliance checklist that is designed to help law firms prepare their clients for year-end responsibilities. In this installment, Suelzer explains the entity-related compliance requirements and why it is vital to remain a business in good standing.
Rich Graeter of Graeter's Ice Cream explains how he protects the traditions of the business that's been in his family for 148 years while also embracing the innovations needed to keep the company successful for years to come. Graeter discusses how he decides where to innovate and expand, how he deals with the compliance issues that accompany expansion, and what tips he has for family-owned businesses.
Sustainable World Strategies President Melanie George Smith explains why more businesses of all sizes are wisely pursuing sustainability policies that will benefit their communities and their balance sheets. She details how sustainability policies benefit business owners, investors, and customers, and what she's doing as a Delaware state representative to help businesses achieve those goals.
GrowBiz Media CEO and Founder Rieva Lesonsky walks us through seven deadly marketing myths and explains why you do need to have a marketing campaign, which method of advertising is an absolute must, why trying to reach as many people as possible is not necessarily a good idea, and why having a secure, professional website is vital.
While business agility and adaptability are sometimes valued more than traditional business planning these days, don't be fooled. Business planning is just as important but it can also be done much more simply than many existing and aspiring business owners realize. Palo Alto Software founder and "Lean Business Planning" author Tim Berry explains why you need a business plan, what it needs to include, why it doesn't have to take a long time to put together, and how to use it to make your life easier.
Very few people expect their marriage to end in divorce, but it does happen and the financial punch for business owners can be severe if they are not prepared. Matrimonial law attorney Jacqueline Newman explains how to protect yourself and your business from divorce before you ever tie the knot and what options remain if you're already married.
CyberScout founder Adam Levin explains why cybersecurity requires constant vigilance from business owners and that running a smaller business doesn't make you any less of a target from hackers and thieves. Levin explains why internal communication is vital in warding off new threats and how business owners who are not tech savvy can stay on top of the issue.
CyberScout Founder and Chairman Adam Levin explains why all business owners need to develop a "culture of privacy" to protect their finances and sensitive information from business identity theft. Levin walks us through ten different ways businesses can be compromised, specific steps to guard against hackers, and what to do if your business is compromised.
HJR Global CEO Harrison Rogers has built several successful businesses and is now considered one of the top young entrepreneurs in America. Rogers walks us through his journey from struggling high school student to stunning business success. He also shares several painful lessons he has learned along the way and how applying them can benefit your business.
Pinnacle Global Network CEO Allison Maslan explains why businesses owners should be looking to scale their operations, whether they're looking to be a global competitor or a regional success. She then walks us through the five phases of scaling, taking us from the formation of a company to a business structure that delegates many responsibilities to your most trusted subordinates.
Dean Foster, founder of DFA Intercultural Global Solutions and author of "Bargaining Across Borders," explains how knowing traditions and customs in other parts of the world can be the beginning of successful working relationships and how not knowing those things can ruin your efforts before you even begin How can an introduction or an exchange of business cards be a plus or minus for you and how will people in other countries expect you to negotiate? Join us as Dean shares helpful tips from his 35 years of studying business culture around the world.
House Small Business Committee Chairman Rep. Steve Chabot explains how the recent tax legislation and federal efforts to roll back regulations are putting American businesses on a much stronger footing both at home and abroad. Chabot also admits what could have been done better in the the tax bill and details what his committee is doing to beef up cybersecurity and what services the government offers to help businesses guard against cyber attacks.
Jeannette McClennan, president and founder of the McClennan Group and author of "Innovators Anonymous: Seven Steps to Get Your Product Off the Ground," walks us through the keys to bringing a new concept to market while avoiding the grief, disorganization, and wasted money that is so often part of the process. McClennan explains the value in studying your future competitors and understanding your own strengths and weaknesses. She also tells how embracing metrics and low-budget prototypes will be welcome strategies for your bottom line.
Working on clients’ international deals can bring a host of unexpected challenges. Plan for success by anticipating the differences and building them into your deal timeline and workflow. Global Services Expert Bianca Erb discusses the importance of careful planning, respecting cultural differences, and working with an experienced team (on the ground) in multiple countries.
A corporate service provider can serve as your single point of contact to simplify a complex, multi-country deal. A large provider offers the advantages of global-local presence and can make your document requests a priority.
Choosing CT will provide you with a dedicated single point of contact to help project manage the global portion of your transaction or due diligence. To learn more about how CT can help you better manage your global compliance needs, contact a CT representative at (844) 322-6993 (toll-free U.S.).
Jordan Furlong, principle at Law 21 and author of "Law Is A Buyer's Market: Building A Client-First Law Firm," explains the biggest challenges for law firms in 2018. He says workloads are stagnating for law firms due to potential clients getting more and more routine work done through alternative legal services providers. Furlong explains how law firms can win back that business, and it all starts with listening to the clients.
Lori Ann Fox, regional and government relations attorney for CT Corporation, joins us to discuss the most important factors in choosing a name for your business and the legal steps you must follow to secure and protect that name. Fox explains the due diligence required to determine if a name is available and how to navigate naming issues when expanding to another state.
Tamara Kling, regional and government relations attorney at CT Corporation, explains the importance of establishing your formal business entity and how to determine whether becoming a corporation or a limited liability company is best for you and your business. Kling also details how to formalize your entity, how to expand into other states, and to keep up with compliance requirements.
CT Corporation Senior Product Manager Jace Harker explains what organizational charts are and why they are so helpful to businesses. Harker says the more complex a business gets with respect to subsidiaries and other developments within the organization, the more vital it is to have an up-to-date chart. He also urges business leaders to take advantage of cutting edge tools to keep the charts accurate.
During his last year in college, Tom Szaky began to question why garbage exists and why some products are recyclable and others aren’t. What he found was economics and the value of materials determined what could be reused. He founded TerraCycle in an effort to recycle the unrecyclable. He now operates in 21 countries and continues to grow without competition. By partnering with others to reuse materials such as cigarette butts and ocean plastics, he’s built an entire business that not only helps a company’s bottom line but makes a real difference as well.
Alexis Brachel, senior manager in business licenses at CT Corporation, walks us through the different licenses needed to open a restaurant and the lengthy process required to get those licenses before you open the doors. Brachel also offers tips on the proper approach to licensing when opening new locations or undergoing a change in ownership.
Egg Marketing President Susan Guillory discusses the most effective way to attract new customers through social media engagement and providing articles or other content that demonstrate your expertise to prospective clients.
Alan Stachura, senior manager of government relations at CT Corporation, shares several reasons why it is advantageous for businesses large and small to set up shop in Delaware. Stachura discusses the attractiveness of Delaware's business entity law, its unique and helpful court system, and the simplicity of compliance with state laws and regulations.
Ian Bone, senior manager of strategy and innovation at CT Corporation, walks us through the most most important elements of successfully completing important deals, such as mergers, spinoffs, and financial agreements. Ian explains how make your proposal attractive to potential partners, how strategic planning can make the dealmaking process go much more smoothly, and how to handle those last-minute issues that could derail a deal at the last minute.
Learn what SPVs and SPEs are, when to use them, and the benefits and risks associated with each.
Kindness Hall Founder Allen Hecht explains how kindness or "mindfulness" towards others can not only have an impact on society but on how employers interact with employees and how businesses treat customers. Hecht also cites a tremendous amount of business research to confirm how simple but purposeful kindness can make a big difference in the successof a business.
Alexis Brachel, senior manager in business licenses, governance and risk compliance at CT Corporation, walks us through the steps of ensuring compliance is securing a construction business license. She explains the compliance required when expanding a business, reorganizing at your existing site, and keeping up with changing rules.
Tungsten Branding President Phillip Davis offers his expertise on how to name your new business in a way that conveys a clear message and leaves people wanting to know more about it. Noting that a business name should be a "conversation starter versus a conversation stopper," Davis walks us through his decision to name his own business and offers several tips on what to avoid when choosing a name. Finally, he explains how to determine if anyone else has the name you have in mind for your business and what steps to take once you've made your decision.
National Association of Non-Profits President Blair Anderson tells us how starting a non-profit differs from launching a traditional business, the tax implications to keep in mind, and how to register your non-profit. Once your business is formed, Anderson explains how you’ll also need to consider your business plan, management structure, and roles and responsibilities.
Bill Moore, senior manager of transactional business consultants and law firm sales for CT Corporation, walks us through how to conduct due diligence before submitting a Uniform Commercial Code filing Specifically, Moore explains how to find any outstanding liens that could complicate the deal and what business owners and lenders should do if they find some surprises
If you’re looking to expand your business beyond the U.S, Canada is an excellent choice, due to similarities in business regulations and ease of navigating the requirements necessary to set up shop north of the border. Traci Houck of CT Corporation talks about why companies should consider Canadian expansion and how to get started.
Small Business and Entrepreneur Council President and CEO Karen Kerrigan joins us to discuss how existing and aspiring small business owners should approach the regulations imposed on them by all levels of government. Kerrigan explains how to factor the time and money needed for compliance and what resources will make your life easier. She also details why she sees the federal regulatory environment getting more favorable to business owners and what challenges still remain.
Entity management is essential to the health of your business, whether you’re a small company or a large corporation overseeing multiple entities. CT’s Business Compliance Consultant Sharon Carroll explains some of the basics of entity management, the role it plays in an organization, and how to best manage compliance responsibilities.
Jeff Williams, chief coach at Bizstarters, a company focusing on the explosive growth of baby boomers starting new businesses after age 50. Williams explains why the number of new business owners who are 50 and older is soaring and why they tend to be more successful than their younger counterparts. He also walks through some of the challenges unique to starting a business later in life and how to decide if this is a good idea for you.
When thinking about all you need to do to start your new business, researching the proper business entity might not be at the top of your list, but it should be. Lori Ann Fox, government relations and regional attorney at CT Corporation, details why it is vital for new businesses to establish a formal entity. Fox explains the different types of entities and how to choose the right fit for your business. She also details how the different entities could impact your tax bill and what sort of compliance is necessary long after you open your doors.
The good news is you can start an online business within hours. The bad news is that anyone else can do it too, so how can you prepare for success? Small Biz Lady Melinda Emerson explains why a good business plan is the best place to start and what priorities ought to be in that plan. Emerson also points out where to find help for establishing your formal business entity and taking care of other important legal requirements. She also offers advice on how to stand out from the crowd by providing an excellent customer experience on the very first day.
You've finalized a business merger, but how do you determine how successful it is? CT Corporation Client Relationship Manager Mike Malkowski walks us through the process of evaluating the effectiveness of a new merger and explains how effective communication is one of the keys to a smooth transition. He also explains how the right preparation before the merger makes the implementation less daunting.
Remodeling expert Shawn McCadden explains the critical steps in launching a contracting or construction business. He explains the differences between the two types of businesses, the right entity to establish, and which insurance and liability policies are necessary.
Teresa Goody, founder and CEO of The Goody Group, speaks about why it is critical to establish a structure for your new business and how to make sure you're choosing the right one. She also discusses what to look for in your local laws and regulations to help set your business on firm legal ground.
Pabir Nijjar, who turned around a struggling pizza restaurant in California, shares his personal story and discusses what it takes to be a successful restaurant owner. Nijjar explains everything from permits and licensing to building your reputation in the community and turning a profit.