I tried very hard not to say anything on this topic but I suppose I can't help it. In my last post I spoke about Fathers. Micheal was one. I am on about making Money He did make alot of it. I am on about preserving wealth. They claim he did not preserve his.
Whatever you think about Micheal Jackson we must admit he did impact the world. While he made alot of money, many very wealthy folks today owe their wealth to Micheal Jackson and his music. We all tried Moon walking at some point in our lives thanks to Micheal. I still remember the way parties of my teenage years changed when Micheal Jackson was playing. Those memories still bring a smile.
As far back as I can remember fans of Micheal Jackson did agree he missed his childhood. Most agreed he did not get the chance to "be a teenager". I was particularly saddened to see he is gone before having the pleasure of seeing any of his children through the teenage years.
Micheal is gone but his legacy remains. As we mourn him we can allow ourself to be caught up in controversy and speculations or we can choose to take possitive lessons from his life and improve ours.
I am going to make the world a better place and I will start with the Man In the Mirror.
Chantentor.
http://www.chantentorstips.com
Monday, July 6, 2009
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Fathers Day
This morning I took the time to talk with Fathers that I thought had some challenges and may need some encouragement.
Now I ask where do we learn to be fathers? Let's face it, a lot is expected from Fathers. Shouldn't there be a school for this.
For those of us who were blessed to have a good Father it sometimes sounds ridiculous that someone would propose a school for Fathers. We had the pleasure of learning first hand what is expected from a good Father. Someone who is strong and brave, yet loving and kind. We experienced stern reprimand and gutsy laughter. We learnt from watching who we saw as the worlds best Dad live the life we want to copy, and even then we struggle. So those who did not have that chance, that gift to learn from their Father, I must say congratulations on the job you have managed to do.Those of us who are getting it right must go the extra mile to help the boy who is without a father. Not to abuse them but to invest in another great dad for tomorrow. Much has been said about the Big Brother Programs. Maybe we need a Daddy program.
My Dad is my friend, always was and always will be. I wish every child could say that.
Chantentor
Now I ask where do we learn to be fathers? Let's face it, a lot is expected from Fathers. Shouldn't there be a school for this.
For those of us who were blessed to have a good Father it sometimes sounds ridiculous that someone would propose a school for Fathers. We had the pleasure of learning first hand what is expected from a good Father. Someone who is strong and brave, yet loving and kind. We experienced stern reprimand and gutsy laughter. We learnt from watching who we saw as the worlds best Dad live the life we want to copy, and even then we struggle. So those who did not have that chance, that gift to learn from their Father, I must say congratulations on the job you have managed to do.Those of us who are getting it right must go the extra mile to help the boy who is without a father. Not to abuse them but to invest in another great dad for tomorrow. Much has been said about the Big Brother Programs. Maybe we need a Daddy program.
My Dad is my friend, always was and always will be. I wish every child could say that.
Chantentor
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
G.P.S. Pending Challenge
Hhm, I listen to the news today and all the talk about the overloaded system that a lot of us has come to depend on totally. I questioned how do i now find my way around the USA ? Not to mention the Transportation system that depends on this system for navigation.
How will we fix this? Do we have People on the system that shouldnt be on it? Are we still using GPS to navigate our way Home from work? If this is so, how much abuse is there, could we buy time by reducing abuse? How could this be done? Another tax?
I am really not sure what the answer is. I don't know that we can afford to do the upgrades needed in time considering the economics challenges we face. I don't know that we can afford additional taxation. So can we be trusted to do the responsible thing and use it only when it is needed. I am sure we can but i am still not sure it will be enough. what do you think?
How will we fix this? Do we have People on the system that shouldnt be on it? Are we still using GPS to navigate our way Home from work? If this is so, how much abuse is there, could we buy time by reducing abuse? How could this be done? Another tax?
I am really not sure what the answer is. I don't know that we can afford to do the upgrades needed in time considering the economics challenges we face. I don't know that we can afford additional taxation. So can we be trusted to do the responsible thing and use it only when it is needed. I am sure we can but i am still not sure it will be enough. what do you think?
Saturday, May 9, 2009
SECRETS TO SUCCESSFULLY STARTING YOUR OWN BUSINESS
Everybodies Dream is, and always will be, to come up with an idea, start a business and become rich from your own efforts. Based upon this motivation, thousands of businesses fail each year, due primarily to not being familiar with the basics involved in running a business.This report will enlighten you, and give you a number of suggestions you can use to better guarantee your chances for success. This report is written with the warning that any and every business venture contains certain inherent risks, and any number of alternatives. We do not espouse that any one way is the right way or that our suggestions are the only way. On the contrary, we advise that before investing any money in a business venture, you seek counseling and help from a qualified accountant and/or attorney.Just about the first thing you should consider before deciding to start or purchase a business is the legal form you'll be operating under. There are basically four choices: sole proprietorship, partnership, limited partnership, and/or corporation.Each has a number of advantages and disadvantages. As much as anything else, for many people starting a business is a form of ego-gratification, and they form a corporation for some sort of prestige gain - just to say, "I own a corporation."With just a little bit of observation, you'll find that one of the major causes of business failures is due to the founder wasting start-up capital on frills, such as an impressive store-front office, expensive furnishings, and corporate legal costs. One of the basic traits you must develop if you're going to be successful in business, is a tight hold on your expenditures. Infact, a good rule of thumb is that anything that does not make money for you or protect your investment, should not be purchased at this time. Very definitely, this applies to the expense of setting up your own corporation. Unless you have a partnership and start your business as such,the only real advantage to forming a corporation would appear to be that a corporate structure will semi-protect the property you personally own. As an example, you own a home and car. You form a corporation to protect these possessions from business losses. Yet, if you can be found guilty of misusing corporate funds, your business creditors can pierce the corporate shield and come after your possessions.Basically, if you invest everything you have in your business, as most newcomers do, you don't usually need a corporation because you have nothing to protect. Your household possessions,personal belongings, generally your car, and even a portion of the equity in your home is protected by the homestead provision of the Federal Bankruptcy Act, and cannot be taken away from you.As a sole proprietor or partner of a business you'll be paying taxes on your overall earnings, much the same as if you were holding down a salaried or hourly paid job. Whether you do or don't take out money as a salary will have no bearing on the earnings of your business and tax return.The often advertised advantage of incorporating, that you can manipulate your salary in order to save on tax dollars, is real because of corporation laws. However, the IRS/revenue board frowns on this practice. When your business is successful and making a lot of money, definitely check with your accountant on the advantages of incorporating.
As a corporation, you'll be subject to a number of other draw backs as well: generally higher state taxes, stricter laws concerning the operation of your business, more elaborate accounting procedures, and legal papers that are required just about every time you make a major move or sign almost any contract. Thus, your legal and accounting fees will be much higher as a corporation than will those required for a sole proprietorship type of business.As a sole proprietor or partnership, you'll find many areas require the registration of your business name. The cost however, is minimal, ranging from $5 to $100. About the best way to find out what laws apply in your area, is to call your bank and ask if they need a fictitious name registration card or certificate in order for you to open a business account.Selecting a name for your business is quite important to you and particularly relative to advertising. Your business name should describe the product or services you offer. Fancy names such as,Linda's Clipping Service will lose potential "walk-in and passing" customers to the beauty shop across the street that calls itself, Patti's Beauty Salon or Jane's Hair Styling Shop.
The advantage of using your full name in the title of your business, such as Johnny Jones' Meat Lockers, has the advantageof making credit somewhat easier to come by - provided you pay your bills on time - but it also includes the disadvantage of confining your services to a local or at most, a regional area. Should you buy, lease, or rent a space for your business? think twice before you make any decision along these lines. Most businesses tend to grow quickly or they never get off the ground.There are a few exceptions, but only a very few, that tend to grow at a modified rate. So, buying a piece of property and setting up your business on or within that property, obligates you to ownership regardless of what happens to your business.
Leases are almost always very strong contracts written by attorneys to the advantage of the property-owner. When you sign an agreement to pay someone for the use of their space over any length of time, you're "nailed in" to paying for that space regardless of what happens to your business.In the beginning, it's wise to either get the shortest-term lease possible, or arrange to rent with an option to lease at a laterdate. This does not apply to a retail business, unless your particular business happens to be an untried one.
Definitely, you should open a business bank account. In selecting a bank for your business, scout around and look for one that can, and will help you. Determine what your banking needs will be, and then via telephone, interview the managers of the banks in your area. The important convenient bank to your business location. A point to remember: the closer you can make the relationship between you and the bank manager, the better your chances are going to be for approval on loans and/or special favors you may need at a later date.Try to become acquainted with as many of the bank employees as possible. The better you know them, the more courtesies they'llbe extending especially to you in the course of your association. Just as a doctor is a specialist in his field, and you go to him for medical problems, your banker is a specialist in his field and you should go to him for your money problems. In business,you'll have to learn that everyone is an expert in his own line of work, and in your associations with other business people,refrain from acting like a "sharpie" and/or pretending that you know exactly how everything works in someone else's specialty.You'll find that very often, different banks specialize in different types of businesses. As an example, you're sure to find banks that specialize in real estate transactions,export-import businesses, and even manufacturing operations only.What I'm saying here is that if you're planning to sell fairly expensive item, your customers will probably need and/or want financing. It will behoove you to select a bank familiar with your type of product that will afford your customers, through you, contract financing. Some of the questions you should ask of your banker include the following:Is it necessary to maintain a certain balance in your account before the bank will approve a loan for you?What qualifications must you have in order to obtain a line of credit with the bank? Does the bank limit the number of loans, or types of loans it will approve for small businesses?What is the bank's policy regarding the size of a check you might deposit that requires holding for collection?And what about checks less than that amount - will they be immediately credited to your account? In almost all types of businesses, it will be to your benefit to set up with your bank, a method of handling VISA, Master Charge,and regional credit cards. The important thing here is to ultimately set up your account in the bank that will service all of these credit transactions for you - one stop for all your banking needs. In most instances, you'll find that having the capability to fill orders/make sales via credit card transactions, will increase your volume of sales appreciatively.Once you've made the decision as to which bank is going to handle your account, you'll need your Social Security Number or yourFederal Employer's Identification Number, your driver's license, the fictitious name certificate, and if you're requesting a VISA or Master Charge franchise, you'll also need a financial statement.
For corporations, you'll also need a corporate resolution approving of the opening of your business account.There are different policies exercised in just about every state regarding installation/hook-up charges by the telephone and utility companies. Some require a deposit, and some don't.You'll find that a great number of city business license departments are there solely for the purpose of collecting another tax. Depending on the type of business you're asking a license for, the building and zoning people may inspect your premises for soundness of structure and safety. Generally, you won't encounter any difficulties - you simply pay your fee to operate your business in that city, and the clerk types your name onto a city license certificate. Relative to sales tax permits and licenses, each state's rules and regulations very widely. The best thing to do is call your state offices and ask for information concerning registry and collection procedures. Many states require an advance deposit or bond, and you'll find that some wholesalers or manufacturers will not sell to you at wholesale prices until you can show them your sales tax permit or number.Should your business entail selling your products or services across state lines, in another state, you're not required to collect taxes except in those where you have offices or stores. You may find also that your particular business requires the collection of Federal Excise Taxes. For information along these lines, check in with your local office of the Internal Revenue Service.Some states also require certain businesses to hold state licenses, such as those required in many states for TV Repairmen.These are known as "occupational permits" and are most often required of barbers, hair stylists, real estate people and a number of other consumer oriented businesses. If you have any doubts, check with your state offices for a list of those occupations that require licensing. Any business doing business in any type of interstate commerce is subject to federal regulations, usually through the Federal Trade Commission. This means that any business that shops, sells or advertises in more than one state is subject to such regulation,and this includes even the smallest of mail order operations. Normally, very few business people ever have and contact with the federal regulatory agencies. The only exceptions being when there is a question of your operating your business unethically or illegally.Any business that sells or distributes food in any manner almost always requires a county health department permit. If yourbusiness falls into this category, simply call the county health department and invite them out to your place of business for an inspection. The fees generally range from about $25, depending on the size of your business when they first inspect it for permit approval.There are also a number of businesses that require inspection by a fire Marshall, and fire department approval. Generally, these are those that handle flammable materials or attract large numbers of people, such as a theater. Overall, the local fire department has to be allowed to inspect your premises when ever they desire to do so. You may also run into a requirement for an air and/or water pollution control permit. These specifically apply to any business that burns anything, discharges anything into the sewers or waterways, or use any gas-producing product, such as a paint sprayer. Without a doubt, you'll need to check on local regulations relating to advertising display signs. Each city or town shipmakes its own rules and then enforces those rules according to its own thinking-check before you contract to have a sign made for your business.The design and placement of your sign is very important to your business - specifically to retail establishments - but let me remind you that your business sign is usually the first thing a potential customer sees and as such, it should catch his eye and leave an impression that lasts. It would be a good idea to ride around your town and take a look at the signs that catch your eye, and try to determine the impression of the business that sign leaves on you. This is a basic learning formula for determining the design, size and placement of your business sign.Some of the other things to consider before opening for business- If you intend to employ one or more employees, you'll be required to deduct Federal Income Taxes, and Social Security payments from their checks. This will involve your filing for a Federal Tax Number and necessitates contact with your local IRS Office. Most states have "unemployment taxes" which will have to bededucted from the paychecks of any employees you hire. There are a number of states that have income taxes - disability insurance - and any number of other taxes. Again, the best thing to do is check with your local office of the IRS. And above all else, don't forget to ask for the rules of the minimum wage law,and comply. When your business grows to the point of needing additional help,don't be afraid to look for and hire the help you need. when you're ready to hire someone, simply run an ad in your local paper and/or register your needs with the local office of your state's employment service. Businesses either grow or die, and those that grow eventually need more people in order to continue growing. When that time comes, hire the additional people you need, and your business will continue growing. If you don't, for what ever reason, you'll find yourself married to your business and your business growth stymied. Regardless of how small your business is when you begin, never walk in with the thought in mind that it's something to keep you busy. Anyone with an attitude of that kind is a fool. You begin and make a business successful in order to realize financial freedom. Establish your business. Put it on its feet, and then hire other people to do the work for you. And those businesses that require an operations manager, or someone to run a phase of the business you're too busy to handle, hire the person needed or the business will surely suffer. To protect the investment of your business, you need business insurance. If you've never had any experience with business insurance, simply look under the heading of "business insurance"in your phone directory. Ask for bids from several different companies or agents...Primarily, you should have a policy that gives you general liability, fire, workmen's compensation,business interruption, and vehicle coverage. You may also want coverage against possible losses related to burglary, robbery,Life & Accident, Key Man, and Fidelity Bonds. As the sole proprietor of a business, you won't be paid as an employee, so there will be no income tax deducted from what ever you withdraw from the company's earnings. What you'll have to do is a gain check with the IRS Office for a Tax Guide For SmallBusinesses Handbook, and probably end up filing an estimated tax return on a quarterly basis.The minute you open your doors for business, you'll have to spend some time engaged in the work of bookkeeping. Exactly how, and using what forms, you keep books, should be on the recommendations of a good tax counselor...The same holds true for your overall business and/or payroll accounting system. Look for an experienced CPA that knows the accounting problems to your particular kind of business, and solicit his advise/counseling. If your business is going to involve the possible purchase or lease of operating equipment, again seek the help of your tax counselor for the most advantageous method of obtaining the needed equipment.Basically, arranging for your suppliers to give you materials on credit will depend upon your honesty and personal financial statement. The best way is usually a personal visit to the person with the power to approve or disapprove of credit at the company where you want to set up a credit account. Show him your financial statement, and explain your prospects for success. Then assure him that you've always honored all of your obligations, and that if ever there's a question or problem,you'd like for him to call you at home. And of course, give him your home phone number.We won't go into the exigencies of advertising your products,services or business here, but there is something along these lines you should always keep in mind. The best kind of advertising your business can receive is that you don't reallypay for - publicity. When something unusual happens to you, your business, or your employees - that's news, so be sure to tell the news media in your area about it.In closing, let me say that the most important ingredient of your eventual success will be the soundness of the planning you did before you started your business. Any number of bad things can really throw your business into a tailspin, but if you've done your homework well - really set up a detailed business plan before starting - your losses or setbacks will be minimal.Success takes planning, and within this report, you've got a basic checklist...The rest is up to you...Good luck, and may yourlife overflow with success in all that you undertake from this moment forward.
As a corporation, you'll be subject to a number of other draw backs as well: generally higher state taxes, stricter laws concerning the operation of your business, more elaborate accounting procedures, and legal papers that are required just about every time you make a major move or sign almost any contract. Thus, your legal and accounting fees will be much higher as a corporation than will those required for a sole proprietorship type of business.As a sole proprietor or partnership, you'll find many areas require the registration of your business name. The cost however, is minimal, ranging from $5 to $100. About the best way to find out what laws apply in your area, is to call your bank and ask if they need a fictitious name registration card or certificate in order for you to open a business account.Selecting a name for your business is quite important to you and particularly relative to advertising. Your business name should describe the product or services you offer. Fancy names such as,Linda's Clipping Service will lose potential "walk-in and passing" customers to the beauty shop across the street that calls itself, Patti's Beauty Salon or Jane's Hair Styling Shop.
The advantage of using your full name in the title of your business, such as Johnny Jones' Meat Lockers, has the advantageof making credit somewhat easier to come by - provided you pay your bills on time - but it also includes the disadvantage of confining your services to a local or at most, a regional area. Should you buy, lease, or rent a space for your business? think twice before you make any decision along these lines. Most businesses tend to grow quickly or they never get off the ground.There are a few exceptions, but only a very few, that tend to grow at a modified rate. So, buying a piece of property and setting up your business on or within that property, obligates you to ownership regardless of what happens to your business.
Leases are almost always very strong contracts written by attorneys to the advantage of the property-owner. When you sign an agreement to pay someone for the use of their space over any length of time, you're "nailed in" to paying for that space regardless of what happens to your business.In the beginning, it's wise to either get the shortest-term lease possible, or arrange to rent with an option to lease at a laterdate. This does not apply to a retail business, unless your particular business happens to be an untried one.
Definitely, you should open a business bank account. In selecting a bank for your business, scout around and look for one that can, and will help you. Determine what your banking needs will be, and then via telephone, interview the managers of the banks in your area. The important convenient bank to your business location. A point to remember: the closer you can make the relationship between you and the bank manager, the better your chances are going to be for approval on loans and/or special favors you may need at a later date.Try to become acquainted with as many of the bank employees as possible. The better you know them, the more courtesies they'llbe extending especially to you in the course of your association. Just as a doctor is a specialist in his field, and you go to him for medical problems, your banker is a specialist in his field and you should go to him for your money problems. In business,you'll have to learn that everyone is an expert in his own line of work, and in your associations with other business people,refrain from acting like a "sharpie" and/or pretending that you know exactly how everything works in someone else's specialty.You'll find that very often, different banks specialize in different types of businesses. As an example, you're sure to find banks that specialize in real estate transactions,export-import businesses, and even manufacturing operations only.What I'm saying here is that if you're planning to sell fairly expensive item, your customers will probably need and/or want financing. It will behoove you to select a bank familiar with your type of product that will afford your customers, through you, contract financing. Some of the questions you should ask of your banker include the following:Is it necessary to maintain a certain balance in your account before the bank will approve a loan for you?What qualifications must you have in order to obtain a line of credit with the bank? Does the bank limit the number of loans, or types of loans it will approve for small businesses?What is the bank's policy regarding the size of a check you might deposit that requires holding for collection?And what about checks less than that amount - will they be immediately credited to your account? In almost all types of businesses, it will be to your benefit to set up with your bank, a method of handling VISA, Master Charge,and regional credit cards. The important thing here is to ultimately set up your account in the bank that will service all of these credit transactions for you - one stop for all your banking needs. In most instances, you'll find that having the capability to fill orders/make sales via credit card transactions, will increase your volume of sales appreciatively.Once you've made the decision as to which bank is going to handle your account, you'll need your Social Security Number or yourFederal Employer's Identification Number, your driver's license, the fictitious name certificate, and if you're requesting a VISA or Master Charge franchise, you'll also need a financial statement.
For corporations, you'll also need a corporate resolution approving of the opening of your business account.There are different policies exercised in just about every state regarding installation/hook-up charges by the telephone and utility companies. Some require a deposit, and some don't.You'll find that a great number of city business license departments are there solely for the purpose of collecting another tax. Depending on the type of business you're asking a license for, the building and zoning people may inspect your premises for soundness of structure and safety. Generally, you won't encounter any difficulties - you simply pay your fee to operate your business in that city, and the clerk types your name onto a city license certificate. Relative to sales tax permits and licenses, each state's rules and regulations very widely. The best thing to do is call your state offices and ask for information concerning registry and collection procedures. Many states require an advance deposit or bond, and you'll find that some wholesalers or manufacturers will not sell to you at wholesale prices until you can show them your sales tax permit or number.Should your business entail selling your products or services across state lines, in another state, you're not required to collect taxes except in those where you have offices or stores. You may find also that your particular business requires the collection of Federal Excise Taxes. For information along these lines, check in with your local office of the Internal Revenue Service.Some states also require certain businesses to hold state licenses, such as those required in many states for TV Repairmen.These are known as "occupational permits" and are most often required of barbers, hair stylists, real estate people and a number of other consumer oriented businesses. If you have any doubts, check with your state offices for a list of those occupations that require licensing. Any business doing business in any type of interstate commerce is subject to federal regulations, usually through the Federal Trade Commission. This means that any business that shops, sells or advertises in more than one state is subject to such regulation,and this includes even the smallest of mail order operations. Normally, very few business people ever have and contact with the federal regulatory agencies. The only exceptions being when there is a question of your operating your business unethically or illegally.Any business that sells or distributes food in any manner almost always requires a county health department permit. If yourbusiness falls into this category, simply call the county health department and invite them out to your place of business for an inspection. The fees generally range from about $25, depending on the size of your business when they first inspect it for permit approval.There are also a number of businesses that require inspection by a fire Marshall, and fire department approval. Generally, these are those that handle flammable materials or attract large numbers of people, such as a theater. Overall, the local fire department has to be allowed to inspect your premises when ever they desire to do so. You may also run into a requirement for an air and/or water pollution control permit. These specifically apply to any business that burns anything, discharges anything into the sewers or waterways, or use any gas-producing product, such as a paint sprayer. Without a doubt, you'll need to check on local regulations relating to advertising display signs. Each city or town shipmakes its own rules and then enforces those rules according to its own thinking-check before you contract to have a sign made for your business.The design and placement of your sign is very important to your business - specifically to retail establishments - but let me remind you that your business sign is usually the first thing a potential customer sees and as such, it should catch his eye and leave an impression that lasts. It would be a good idea to ride around your town and take a look at the signs that catch your eye, and try to determine the impression of the business that sign leaves on you. This is a basic learning formula for determining the design, size and placement of your business sign.Some of the other things to consider before opening for business- If you intend to employ one or more employees, you'll be required to deduct Federal Income Taxes, and Social Security payments from their checks. This will involve your filing for a Federal Tax Number and necessitates contact with your local IRS Office. Most states have "unemployment taxes" which will have to bededucted from the paychecks of any employees you hire. There are a number of states that have income taxes - disability insurance - and any number of other taxes. Again, the best thing to do is check with your local office of the IRS. And above all else, don't forget to ask for the rules of the minimum wage law,and comply. When your business grows to the point of needing additional help,don't be afraid to look for and hire the help you need. when you're ready to hire someone, simply run an ad in your local paper and/or register your needs with the local office of your state's employment service. Businesses either grow or die, and those that grow eventually need more people in order to continue growing. When that time comes, hire the additional people you need, and your business will continue growing. If you don't, for what ever reason, you'll find yourself married to your business and your business growth stymied. Regardless of how small your business is when you begin, never walk in with the thought in mind that it's something to keep you busy. Anyone with an attitude of that kind is a fool. You begin and make a business successful in order to realize financial freedom. Establish your business. Put it on its feet, and then hire other people to do the work for you. And those businesses that require an operations manager, or someone to run a phase of the business you're too busy to handle, hire the person needed or the business will surely suffer. To protect the investment of your business, you need business insurance. If you've never had any experience with business insurance, simply look under the heading of "business insurance"in your phone directory. Ask for bids from several different companies or agents...Primarily, you should have a policy that gives you general liability, fire, workmen's compensation,business interruption, and vehicle coverage. You may also want coverage against possible losses related to burglary, robbery,Life & Accident, Key Man, and Fidelity Bonds. As the sole proprietor of a business, you won't be paid as an employee, so there will be no income tax deducted from what ever you withdraw from the company's earnings. What you'll have to do is a gain check with the IRS Office for a Tax Guide For SmallBusinesses Handbook, and probably end up filing an estimated tax return on a quarterly basis.The minute you open your doors for business, you'll have to spend some time engaged in the work of bookkeeping. Exactly how, and using what forms, you keep books, should be on the recommendations of a good tax counselor...The same holds true for your overall business and/or payroll accounting system. Look for an experienced CPA that knows the accounting problems to your particular kind of business, and solicit his advise/counseling. If your business is going to involve the possible purchase or lease of operating equipment, again seek the help of your tax counselor for the most advantageous method of obtaining the needed equipment.Basically, arranging for your suppliers to give you materials on credit will depend upon your honesty and personal financial statement. The best way is usually a personal visit to the person with the power to approve or disapprove of credit at the company where you want to set up a credit account. Show him your financial statement, and explain your prospects for success. Then assure him that you've always honored all of your obligations, and that if ever there's a question or problem,you'd like for him to call you at home. And of course, give him your home phone number.We won't go into the exigencies of advertising your products,services or business here, but there is something along these lines you should always keep in mind. The best kind of advertising your business can receive is that you don't reallypay for - publicity. When something unusual happens to you, your business, or your employees - that's news, so be sure to tell the news media in your area about it.In closing, let me say that the most important ingredient of your eventual success will be the soundness of the planning you did before you started your business. Any number of bad things can really throw your business into a tailspin, but if you've done your homework well - really set up a detailed business plan before starting - your losses or setbacks will be minimal.Success takes planning, and within this report, you've got a basic checklist...The rest is up to you...Good luck, and may yourlife overflow with success in all that you undertake from this moment forward.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
NINE WAYS TO LOWER YOUR AUTO INSURANCE COSTS
You may not realize it, but the insurance rates you pay for your car can vary dramatically depending on the insurance company, agent or broker you choose, the coverage you request and the kind of car you drive. Listed below are a number of things you can do right now to lower your insurance costs
.1. COMPARISON SHOP.Prices for the same coverage can vary by hundreds of dollars, so it pays to shop around. Ask your friends, check the yellow pages or call your state insurance department. You can also check consumer guides,insurance agents or companies. This will give you an idea of price ranges and tell you which companies or agents have the lowest prices. But don't shop price alone.The insurer you select should offer both fair prices and excellent service. Quality personal service may cost a bit more, but provides added conveniences, so talk to a number of insurers to get a feeling for the quality of their service. Ask them what they would do to lower your costs. Check the financial ratings of the companies too. Then, when you've narrowed the field to three insurers, get price quotes.
.2. ASK FOR HIGHER DEDUCTIBLES.Deductibles represent the amount of money you pay before you make a claim. By requesting higher deductibles on collision and comprehensive (fire and theft) coverage, you can lower your costs substantially. For example, increasing your deductible from $200 to $500 could reduce your collision cost by 15% to 30%.
.3. DROP COLLISION AND/OR COMPREHENSIVE COVERAGES ON OLDER CARS.It may not be cost-effective to have collision or comprehensive coverage on cars worth less than $1000 because any claim you make would not substantially exceed annual cost and deductible amounts. Auto dealers and banks can tell you the worth of cars.
.4. ELIMINATE DUPLICATE MEDICAL COVERAGES.If you have adequate health insurance, you may be paying for duplicate medical coverage in your auto policy. In some states, eliminating this coverage could lower your personal injury protection (PIP) cost by up to 40%
.5. BUY A "LOW PROFILE" CAR.Before you buy a new or used car, check into insurance costs. Cars that are expensive to repair, or that are favorite targets for thieves, have much higher insurance costs. Write to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, 1005 North GlebeRoad, Arlington, VA 22201 and ask for the Highway Loss Data Chart.
.6. CONSIDER AREA INSURANCE COST IF YOU ARE MAKING A MOVE.Costs tend to be lowest in rural communities and highest in center cities where there is more traffic congestion
.7. TAKE ADVANTAGE Of LOW MILEAGE DISCOUNTS.Some companies offer discounts to motorists who drive fewer than a predetermined number of miles a year.
.8. FIND OUT ABOUT AUTOMATIC SEAT BELT OR AIR BAG DISCOUNTS.You may be able to take advantage of discounts on some coverage if you have automatic seat belts and/or air bags.
9. INQUIRE ABOUT OTHER DISCOUNTS.Some insurers offer discounts for more than one car, no accidents in three years, drivers over 50 years of age, driver training courses, anti-theft devices, anti-lock brakes and good grades for students.
.1. COMPARISON SHOP.Prices for the same coverage can vary by hundreds of dollars, so it pays to shop around. Ask your friends, check the yellow pages or call your state insurance department. You can also check consumer guides,insurance agents or companies. This will give you an idea of price ranges and tell you which companies or agents have the lowest prices. But don't shop price alone.The insurer you select should offer both fair prices and excellent service. Quality personal service may cost a bit more, but provides added conveniences, so talk to a number of insurers to get a feeling for the quality of their service. Ask them what they would do to lower your costs. Check the financial ratings of the companies too. Then, when you've narrowed the field to three insurers, get price quotes.
.2. ASK FOR HIGHER DEDUCTIBLES.Deductibles represent the amount of money you pay before you make a claim. By requesting higher deductibles on collision and comprehensive (fire and theft) coverage, you can lower your costs substantially. For example, increasing your deductible from $200 to $500 could reduce your collision cost by 15% to 30%.
.3. DROP COLLISION AND/OR COMPREHENSIVE COVERAGES ON OLDER CARS.It may not be cost-effective to have collision or comprehensive coverage on cars worth less than $1000 because any claim you make would not substantially exceed annual cost and deductible amounts. Auto dealers and banks can tell you the worth of cars.
.4. ELIMINATE DUPLICATE MEDICAL COVERAGES.If you have adequate health insurance, you may be paying for duplicate medical coverage in your auto policy. In some states, eliminating this coverage could lower your personal injury protection (PIP) cost by up to 40%
.5. BUY A "LOW PROFILE" CAR.Before you buy a new or used car, check into insurance costs. Cars that are expensive to repair, or that are favorite targets for thieves, have much higher insurance costs. Write to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, 1005 North GlebeRoad, Arlington, VA 22201 and ask for the Highway Loss Data Chart.
.6. CONSIDER AREA INSURANCE COST IF YOU ARE MAKING A MOVE.Costs tend to be lowest in rural communities and highest in center cities where there is more traffic congestion
.7. TAKE ADVANTAGE Of LOW MILEAGE DISCOUNTS.Some companies offer discounts to motorists who drive fewer than a predetermined number of miles a year.
.8. FIND OUT ABOUT AUTOMATIC SEAT BELT OR AIR BAG DISCOUNTS.You may be able to take advantage of discounts on some coverage if you have automatic seat belts and/or air bags.
9. INQUIRE ABOUT OTHER DISCOUNTS.Some insurers offer discounts for more than one car, no accidents in three years, drivers over 50 years of age, driver training courses, anti-theft devices, anti-lock brakes and good grades for students.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Developing Money making Ideas
Ideas. It isn't the billions of ideas, that pop up in the minds of humans around the globe that make money. Very few ideas are worth the time it took for the thought. Most ideas are fleeting"sparks" that go no place and are forgotten before the next day.Of the ideas that are good, very few are followed up and ever end up as a worthwhile development in the market place. Mostpeople are just not oriented to do anything about their ideas,while others believe it would take too much of their time and money to follow through to completion. This leaves the marketplace wide open for the person who learns how to "Create"Profitable Ideas! There are three major formats you can use to create profitableidea:
1. Find something that already exists, the presence of which has never been known before.
2. Invent something. Most inventions are merely new arrangements of things that have already been invented.
3. Alter or improve in any number of different ways something that already exists. As you "Create" ideas, write them down. What you dream up can be your key to great wealth. Keep your mind "open" as you go through each day. What did you notice in the department store that would reduce costs, save money or increase sales if some simple procedure were added or something changed? Ideas for improvements are one of the most valuable things you can contribute to society and at the same time add to your bank account. To create ideas for improvements, consider every possibility and alternative for the thing you want to improve. Learn to create ideas by evaluating all the different aspects of the product, method or concept you are interested in. Put your imagination and subconscious to work and write down your thoughts pertaining to each of the things you expect to improve.Use the New Wealth, "Idea Format" that follows as your guide for creating Money-Making improvements.
Idea Format: List the things you want to improve:- Why should it be improved?- Who will benefit from the improvement?- What is wrong with it at the present time?- Did someone else cause a problem with it?- How do you propose to improve it?- Do you have the facilities to do the work required?- Do you have the know-how to do the work required to improve it?- Exactly what part needs to be improved?- Should it be smaller? Larger?- Should the color be different?- Would more activity help make it better?- Could it be combined with something else to make it more practical?- Would a different basic material work better?- Is it too complicated, could it be simplified?- Would a substitute be more meaningful?- Is it priced too high?- Would a change in personnel help the situation?- Can the shape be changed to advantage?- Can a new marketing plan make the difference?- Is it safe?- Can it be mass produced to bring the unit cost down?- Should the appearance be changed... streamlined?- Is there an adequate guarantee?- What can make it appeal to a bigger audience?- Would new packaging or trade name enhance it?- Can it be made heavier, lighter, higher or lower?- Can it be franchised?- Is there a good maintenance program to back it up?- Can financing be simplified?- List ways to increase production:- List ways to increase sales:- List ways to reduce costs:- List ways to increase efficiency:- List ways to improve quality and increase profits!- What can be done with it to satisfy more people?This New Wealth "Idea Format" will start the ideas "sparking"and as related ideas come to mind write them down in every variation you can think of. Do not judge the good or bad points of the ideas as they materialize to you, just write them down and judge them afterwards. You will stop the flow of ideas if you are critical of your thoughts before you put them on paper. When you have answered everything you can about the product or concept and know how it fits in with your plans, sit down and evaluate all the details you have written.After you have found (created) a good idea, follow it up with questions on what should be your next move in order to do something about it, then act! Get it moving. Expose it to the world with sufficient tests to determine the value!Come up with ideas that are still in the processing stage rather than get stuck on several vague points that may be worked out later as your subconscious goes to work. If your idea fails, so what; you are just that much closer to finalizing another one,then another... until a useful more valuable idea is born. Every manufacturing plant, retailer, attorney, accountant; every business person, large or small, cannot continue to operate in the competitive world of today without someone in the organization constantly coming up with new and better ideas! Old ideas drop by the wayside as new ideas take their place. Old companies without new ideas fade away.Those who learn and know how to create ideas and anticipate the changes needed, as the future evolves, have the opportunity to be a great success with big money-making potential! Another "tool" you can use to help dream up that million idea,is to spend several minutes each evening, relaxed with your eyes closed. Pick any object that comes to mind and try to change it in your "mind's eye". Change it in every manner you can think of to improve it.The following evening pick another subject or object and repeat the process. Soon you will be using 20% of your brain power instead of the 10% normally used by the average person. As your knowledge and "brain power" increase so will your bank account. Just think what we could accomplish if we could get the other 80% of our brain power working? On second thought, let's not try to get 100% efficiency out of your human computer . . . we would probably blow up the world for sure.Protecting Your Idea When you have come up with a good idea, write a full description of it and make a sketch if necessary. Place the written information, the sketch and any other pertinent facts or documents in an envelope addressed to yourself. Have the post office seal the envelope with a date stamp over the flap, then send it to yourself by registered mail. Keep the envelope,unopened, in the event you need to prove ownership. Of course if your product has a properly registered trade mark, has been copyrighted, or you have a U.S. patent you are protected from infringement. A Few Idea "Sparks" !When you come up with an idea, program or product that is so superior in style or performance that it is unbelievable you may need a notarized statement to assure your customer you are offering an honest deal. Make a habit of examining each piece of correspondence you receive, taking care of it right at the time, do what is necessary right then. Never put it aside to be handled a second time if it all practical. This can save more time than anything else for an executive who handles a large amount of correspondence and mail. You can also save many more hours each week by doing several of the most important things that need to be done each day before you take up other, time consuming important details. Another good way to "spark" ideas is to go through the classified and want ads in the newspaper ... Also the yellow pages of your telephone directory. As you read, think of something that would be of value to the company or person, or enhance the item you are reading about.In summary, learn to develop ideas from observing everyday things and details. Think of what could make something better. Dwell on things that have a large marketing audience, something that everyone needs and wants. Write your ideas down. Put a pencil and pad at your night stand. When you remember a good dream... don't just lay there, by morning you will forget it...Jot it down on the pad. You will be surprised what you can dream up! Maybe the million dollar idea will magically appear on your pad tomorrow morning!
1. Find something that already exists, the presence of which has never been known before.
2. Invent something. Most inventions are merely new arrangements of things that have already been invented.
3. Alter or improve in any number of different ways something that already exists. As you "Create" ideas, write them down. What you dream up can be your key to great wealth. Keep your mind "open" as you go through each day. What did you notice in the department store that would reduce costs, save money or increase sales if some simple procedure were added or something changed? Ideas for improvements are one of the most valuable things you can contribute to society and at the same time add to your bank account. To create ideas for improvements, consider every possibility and alternative for the thing you want to improve. Learn to create ideas by evaluating all the different aspects of the product, method or concept you are interested in. Put your imagination and subconscious to work and write down your thoughts pertaining to each of the things you expect to improve.Use the New Wealth, "Idea Format" that follows as your guide for creating Money-Making improvements.
Idea Format: List the things you want to improve:- Why should it be improved?- Who will benefit from the improvement?- What is wrong with it at the present time?- Did someone else cause a problem with it?- How do you propose to improve it?- Do you have the facilities to do the work required?- Do you have the know-how to do the work required to improve it?- Exactly what part needs to be improved?- Should it be smaller? Larger?- Should the color be different?- Would more activity help make it better?- Could it be combined with something else to make it more practical?- Would a different basic material work better?- Is it too complicated, could it be simplified?- Would a substitute be more meaningful?- Is it priced too high?- Would a change in personnel help the situation?- Can the shape be changed to advantage?- Can a new marketing plan make the difference?- Is it safe?- Can it be mass produced to bring the unit cost down?- Should the appearance be changed... streamlined?- Is there an adequate guarantee?- What can make it appeal to a bigger audience?- Would new packaging or trade name enhance it?- Can it be made heavier, lighter, higher or lower?- Can it be franchised?- Is there a good maintenance program to back it up?- Can financing be simplified?- List ways to increase production:- List ways to increase sales:- List ways to reduce costs:- List ways to increase efficiency:- List ways to improve quality and increase profits!- What can be done with it to satisfy more people?This New Wealth "Idea Format" will start the ideas "sparking"and as related ideas come to mind write them down in every variation you can think of. Do not judge the good or bad points of the ideas as they materialize to you, just write them down and judge them afterwards. You will stop the flow of ideas if you are critical of your thoughts before you put them on paper. When you have answered everything you can about the product or concept and know how it fits in with your plans, sit down and evaluate all the details you have written.After you have found (created) a good idea, follow it up with questions on what should be your next move in order to do something about it, then act! Get it moving. Expose it to the world with sufficient tests to determine the value!Come up with ideas that are still in the processing stage rather than get stuck on several vague points that may be worked out later as your subconscious goes to work. If your idea fails, so what; you are just that much closer to finalizing another one,then another... until a useful more valuable idea is born. Every manufacturing plant, retailer, attorney, accountant; every business person, large or small, cannot continue to operate in the competitive world of today without someone in the organization constantly coming up with new and better ideas! Old ideas drop by the wayside as new ideas take their place. Old companies without new ideas fade away.Those who learn and know how to create ideas and anticipate the changes needed, as the future evolves, have the opportunity to be a great success with big money-making potential! Another "tool" you can use to help dream up that million idea,is to spend several minutes each evening, relaxed with your eyes closed. Pick any object that comes to mind and try to change it in your "mind's eye". Change it in every manner you can think of to improve it.The following evening pick another subject or object and repeat the process. Soon you will be using 20% of your brain power instead of the 10% normally used by the average person. As your knowledge and "brain power" increase so will your bank account. Just think what we could accomplish if we could get the other 80% of our brain power working? On second thought, let's not try to get 100% efficiency out of your human computer . . . we would probably blow up the world for sure.Protecting Your Idea When you have come up with a good idea, write a full description of it and make a sketch if necessary. Place the written information, the sketch and any other pertinent facts or documents in an envelope addressed to yourself. Have the post office seal the envelope with a date stamp over the flap, then send it to yourself by registered mail. Keep the envelope,unopened, in the event you need to prove ownership. Of course if your product has a properly registered trade mark, has been copyrighted, or you have a U.S. patent you are protected from infringement. A Few Idea "Sparks" !When you come up with an idea, program or product that is so superior in style or performance that it is unbelievable you may need a notarized statement to assure your customer you are offering an honest deal. Make a habit of examining each piece of correspondence you receive, taking care of it right at the time, do what is necessary right then. Never put it aside to be handled a second time if it all practical. This can save more time than anything else for an executive who handles a large amount of correspondence and mail. You can also save many more hours each week by doing several of the most important things that need to be done each day before you take up other, time consuming important details. Another good way to "spark" ideas is to go through the classified and want ads in the newspaper ... Also the yellow pages of your telephone directory. As you read, think of something that would be of value to the company or person, or enhance the item you are reading about.In summary, learn to develop ideas from observing everyday things and details. Think of what could make something better. Dwell on things that have a large marketing audience, something that everyone needs and wants. Write your ideas down. Put a pencil and pad at your night stand. When you remember a good dream... don't just lay there, by morning you will forget it...Jot it down on the pad. You will be surprised what you can dream up! Maybe the million dollar idea will magically appear on your pad tomorrow morning!
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
How to Change Your Financial Behavior of Overspending
I felt it important to share the attached article by Colon with you. It is so well written the only additional comment to Improve earnings.Follow this blog we will show you how.
Everyone has to become accountable for our terrible financial behavior and wild money spending habits. What is really happening is that we're piling up to much debt on our cell phones and living large with cruises, cars, clothes, cosmetics and liquor financed on our credit cards. Let's look at 8 ways that can help you change your financial behavior:
- Admit your mistakes. We've all been shamed by some financed fiasco at some time when we've gotten scammed, overcharged or when we overspent on bad deals. Schools never taught you how to handle money in the first place so don't beat yourself up about it.
- Get help. Get a second job and devote that money to bill payments.
- Teach yourself. Take a class, pick up a financial magazine, surf the financial web sites and change the channel to a business financial talk show. Teaching yourself won't solve lifelong money problems but they will help you to start thinking about better ways to handle your money.
- Do some plastic cut up. Plan to pay off at least one or more credit cards with a large balance before the end of the year. Make a pledge to yourself, your loved ones, that you will free yourself of these plastic cards of voluntary slavery.
- Adjust your expectations. Quick fixes will not cure the habits of three generations groomed by buy now, pay later marketing. Plan on a three year turnaround period for new habits, mind-sets and results to make a complete change in your personal profitability.
- Turn book club into prosperity clubs. Share savings tips and credit card info, and help each other with the bailout of the leaky financial boat you're all in. Remember, true sisterhood or brotherhood means we sink or survive together.
- Apply discipline to our institutions. Getting honest about managing our finances has to be a personal as well as an institutional matter if we want to be respected as responsible and accountable adults and organizations.
- Demand more financial education. Maybe more media solutions; radio stations and definitely daily saturation reports on our financial lifestyle and solutions is the only way to break through this blind spot.
To bring this to a close, you must become accountable and responsible for your actions when it comes to overspending financial behaviors. Being in debt can be very tough to overcome and it can linger with you for the rest of your life if you don't think about making a change.
Colon Bolden is a top internet marketer in the 2x2 Prosperity Formula home business industry. Colon enjoys working with other internet marketers around the world. He devotes the time, energy, and effort into his team and works with them to ensure success. If you're searching to create prosperity in your life, visit Colon's 2x2 Prosperity Formula opportunity.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Colon_Bolden
Chantentor
Everyone has to become accountable for our terrible financial behavior and wild money spending habits. What is really happening is that we're piling up to much debt on our cell phones and living large with cruises, cars, clothes, cosmetics and liquor financed on our credit cards. Let's look at 8 ways that can help you change your financial behavior:
- Admit your mistakes. We've all been shamed by some financed fiasco at some time when we've gotten scammed, overcharged or when we overspent on bad deals. Schools never taught you how to handle money in the first place so don't beat yourself up about it.
- Get help. Get a second job and devote that money to bill payments.
- Teach yourself. Take a class, pick up a financial magazine, surf the financial web sites and change the channel to a business financial talk show. Teaching yourself won't solve lifelong money problems but they will help you to start thinking about better ways to handle your money.
- Do some plastic cut up. Plan to pay off at least one or more credit cards with a large balance before the end of the year. Make a pledge to yourself, your loved ones, that you will free yourself of these plastic cards of voluntary slavery.
- Adjust your expectations. Quick fixes will not cure the habits of three generations groomed by buy now, pay later marketing. Plan on a three year turnaround period for new habits, mind-sets and results to make a complete change in your personal profitability.
- Turn book club into prosperity clubs. Share savings tips and credit card info, and help each other with the bailout of the leaky financial boat you're all in. Remember, true sisterhood or brotherhood means we sink or survive together.
- Apply discipline to our institutions. Getting honest about managing our finances has to be a personal as well as an institutional matter if we want to be respected as responsible and accountable adults and organizations.
- Demand more financial education. Maybe more media solutions; radio stations and definitely daily saturation reports on our financial lifestyle and solutions is the only way to break through this blind spot.
To bring this to a close, you must become accountable and responsible for your actions when it comes to overspending financial behaviors. Being in debt can be very tough to overcome and it can linger with you for the rest of your life if you don't think about making a change.
Colon Bolden is a top internet marketer in the 2x2 Prosperity Formula home business industry. Colon enjoys working with other internet marketers around the world. He devotes the time, energy, and effort into his team and works with them to ensure success. If you're searching to create prosperity in your life, visit Colon's 2x2 Prosperity Formula opportunity.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Colon_Bolden
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