Notes on running a business.
Practical guidance on cash flow, accounting, and the decisions that come with running a business.
Articles — Page 12
Traditional CPA Firm vs Modern Accounting Firm: What's the Real Difference? (2026 Guide)
Understand the key differences between traditional CPA firms and modern accounting firms to choose the right financial partner for your service business. Compare credentials, services, pricing, and technology approaches.
How to Evaluate an Outsourced Accounting Provider: 8 Critical Factors for Service Businesses (2026 Guide)
Learn the 8 critical factors to evaluate when choosing an outsourced accounting provider for your service business. From industry expertise to security protocols, this guide helps founders make informed decisions.
In-House vs Outsourced Accounting: Cost and Scope
Compare in-house and outsourced accounting with a scope checklist, illustrative cost worksheet, and questions about control, review, and continuity.
1099 Contractor Tax Rules for Agencies
As of 2026, agencies must file Form 1099-NEC for contractors paid at or above the reportable threshold — $600 for tax year 2025, rising to $2,000 for tax year 2026. This guide covers classification, filing deadlines, exemptions, and backup withholding rules.
Tax Deductions for Agencies and Consultancies: A Practical Guide
Agencies and consultancies can deduct a wide range of business expenses — from home office and software to retirement contributions and the QBI deduction. This guide covers what qualifies, what the limits are, and how to claim each category correctly.
S Corp vs LLC for Service Businesses: How to Choose
Choosing between an S corp and an LLC affects how much self-employment tax you pay, your compliance burden, and your financial flexibility. This guide explains the key differences and when each structure makes sense for service businesses.
Consulting Utilization Rates: Targets & Revenue Calculator
Calculate consulting utilization, set targets by role, and estimate revenue from available capacity. Includes a worked example and an editable calculator.
Year-End Tax Planning Checklist for Small Businesses
A practical year-end tax planning checklist for small businesses covering books, estimated taxes, depreciation, retirement contributions, payroll reporting, and the 2026 thresholds you need to act on before December 31.
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