The research credit is back — this time for good — and it’s better than ever for some small companies. The Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act of 2015, signed into law by the president on December 18, does much more than extend this credit. Under the PATH Act, the research credit is restored retroactive...

You know you’re operating a reputable business, but is that the impression your sales force is leaving with potential customers? Or is your sales team willing to say whatever it takes to seal the deal? In today’s cutthroat business climate, it’s easy to lose sight of what constitutes an ethical sales program. To preserve your company’s...

If you travel a lot on business, you may make some international trips — as well as trips within the United States. When traveling abroad, you may want to add a few extra days to a trip for relaxing and sightseeing. Keep in mind that the tax rules for foreign business travel are different from those...

Choosing the appropriate legal form for a business is one of the first issues most entrepreneurs face. It is an important decision at the formation stage and also as a business grows. Sole proprietorships are generally the easiest. Corporations offer some different advantages, but often with additional complexity. This article addresses some of the pros and cons of...

Running a business these days has become increasingly complicated. With employment-related claims and lawsuits on the rise, management must have a basic understanding of numerous federal, state and local laws. Here are three cases that illustrate some employer liability trends. Giving a positive reference could cost millions.This court case, involving reference checks about a drug-addicted physician,...

No matter what type of business you’re in, sooner or later you’ll probably have to deal with the State Corporation Commission (SCC) or Secretary of State. These offices handle the formalities of setting up and maintaining a business, whether it’s a partnership, corporation, limited liability company or other entity. You or someone you designate must deal...