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S Corp vs. LLC Taxes - About.com. - July 2, 2010
A CPA discusses taxes for S Corporations vs. LLCs.

Are Business Owners also Employees? - About.com - July 2, 2010
You own a business, but are you also an employee of that business?  It depends on the type of business you own.  Many business owners get confused about their status and the tax implications of taking money from their business, so let's talk about it in detail:...Read Full Post

Unvested Stock Options: Left Behind? - CFO - July 1, 2010
A lawsuit by a former Fidelity Investments CFO raises the question of what happens to unvested stock options in a layoff.

Equipment Leasing: No News Is Good News - CFO - July 1, 2010
While the Greek debt crisis may have spooked potential machinery buyers, forecasts of cheap capital may have made them picky.

Don't Click That Link - CFO - July 1, 2010
Malware lurking in e-mail can enable hackers to loot corporate bank accounts.

Which way(s) will world markets go? - MSN Money - July 1, 2010
They probably won't move in step over the next few months. Emerging economies may be on the upswing, while developed nations may not be so lucky. What's an investor to do?

10 ways financial reform falls short - MSN Money - July 1, 2010
Good things survived the weakened legislation providing oversight and regulation of the US financial system. But the measure needs to be stronger.

The deadliest weekend for DUIs - MSN Finance - July 1, 2010
The Fourth of July is the No. 1 holiday for alcohol-related fatal crashes. And even if you don't get in a wreck, driving impaired could send your insurance rates soaring.

Where America's rich are moving - MSN Finance - July 1, 2010
Yes, the rich are heading to Florida (and other warm spots). But vacation paradise isn't the only attraction; many top destinations have pleasant tax climates as well.

Annual Meeting - About.com. - July 1, 2010
Annual meeting of shareholders of a corporation

My Wallet Was Stolen: 4 Lessons Learned - Kiplinger Personal Finance - July 1, 2010
Follow these tips so thieves don't target you -- and if they do, you'll be prepared.

Health Care: Firms with Annual Benefit Limits Must Take Care - Kiplinger Personal Finance - July 1, 2010
Allowable caps will be gradually raised, then barred altogether in 2014.

Tips From Priceline Pros - Kiplinger Personal Finance - July 1, 2010
Here's how to get a good deal on a four-star hotel.

A Terrific Socially Responsible Fund - Kiplinger Personal Finance - July 1, 2010
Parnassus Equity Income is so good that everyone should consider it—regardless of what you think about socially responsible investing.

How Much Life Insurance Do You Need? - Kiplinger Personal Finance - July 1, 2010
Use our formula to cut through the confusion.

End of July - Unemployment Tax Report and Payment Due - About.com - July 1, 2010
It's the beginning of July already; the summer seems to be slipping away fast!  July federal business tax reports and payments due:July 15 - The monthly payroll tax deposit is due, unless you have a large payroll and deposit semi-weeklyEnd of July -  Second quarter federal unemployment taxes(FUTA) are due. If your FUTA tax liability in any one quarter is more than $500, you must make a deposit by the last day of the month after the end of the quarter. In this case, the deposit for the second quarter (April, May, June) would normally have to be made by July 31, but since that day falls on a weekend in 2010, the FUTA deposit is due August 2....Read Full Post

GAAP and IFRS: Six Degrees of Separation - CFO - June 30, 2010
A number of technical issues must be resolved before U.S. accounting rules can be converged with international standards, says one expert.

Can Innovation Curb Rising Health Costs? - CFO - June 30, 2010
Three experts suggest creative ways for companies to counter the rising costs of health care.

Banks Not out of the Woods - CFO - June 30, 2010
The Bank for International Settlements says the banking industry, particularly in the United States and Europe, is still "fragile."

Will falling prices sink the economy? - MSN Money - June 30, 2010
Deflation has gotten more attention, and there's an undeniable appeal in seeing prices drop. But if you're an investor, now might be a good time to bet on inflation's return.  

50 stocks to buy in July - MSN Money - June 30, 2010
StockScouter, MSN Money's stock-picking tool, can help investors find companies capable of outperforming the broader market in the weeks ahead.

Florida Supreme Court Limits Charging Order Protection - Site Headlines - June 30, 2010
In a recent decision, focusing primarily on statutory interpretation, the Florida Supreme Court held that the charging order protection is not the exclusive remedy for a creditor pursuing an LLC membership LLC, despite the plain reading of the statute.

Seven Ways Financial Reform Will Haunt Small Biz - Forbes - June 30, 2010
Bad news: Looks like the capital crunch will continue.

Weaver merges with Bank Advisory Resources - Accounting Web - June 30, 2010
Weaver, a Texas-based independent certified public accounting firm, earlier this month announced expansion of existing services offered to financial institutions through a merger with Bank Advisory Resources, LLC.read more

Is your bank about to fire you? - MSN Finance - June 30, 2010
New rules that rein in overdraft charges have banks eager to dump unprofitable accounts and tack on new fees, but savvy customers will have plenty of options.

Ernst &Young pays fine, costs to settle Equitable Life investigation - Accounting Web - June 30, 2010
Ernst & Young (E&Y) has agreed to pay a £500,000 (U.S. $748,616) fine plus £2.4 million (U.S. $3,594,667) in costs to the Joint Disciplinary Scheme (JDS) and Appeal Tribunal as settlement for its role in the near collapse of client Equitable Life in 2000.read more

Exclusive interview: Joanne Barry, executive director of NYSSCPA - Accounting Web - June 30, 2010
The voice of CPAs in New York has just become stronger because of the broadened scope of practice established by the Accountancy Reform Act of 2009, according to Joanne Barry, the newly appointed executive director of the New York State Society of CPAs (NYSSCPA).read more

Know Your Limits - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 30, 2010
We've found a quiz recommended by experts that may help you get a handle on your own risk tolerance.

Want a Raise? Better Be a Top Performer - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 30, 2010
With the economy still uncertain, employers are saving what money they have for the workers whom they can’t afford to lose.

Breaking Obama's Vow on Tax Hikes - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 30, 2010
Democrats move ever so slightly toward the card no one wants to play.

Fixing a Botched Tax Return - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 30, 2010
If you have realized that you made a mistake or missed a deduction, it's not too late to file an amended return.

Tallying Up the Financial Rescue - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 30, 2010
Government inventions are winding down, but there's still cash flowing out and billions outstanding. What can we expect to get back?

Fast Ways to Improve Your Credit Score - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 30, 2010
See improvement quickly by following these steps.

21 Web Sites for Finding Deals Online - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 30, 2010
And three smart-phone applications that also will help you save money when you shop.

Kagan Set to Win Confirmation Easily - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 30, 2010
Barring a big surprise, she'll sail through the Senate with 70 or more votes.

Treasuries: The Brand to Trust - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 30, 2010
Turn to Uncle Sam for security through the rest of the year.

6 Top Mutual Fund Managers See Hard Times Ahead - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 30, 2010
The bears came out in Chicago to report sobering views of the market and offer attractive stocks to seize now.

8 Emerging U.S. Gateways for Immigrants - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 30, 2010
In many cases, immigrants are taking a pass on traditional big-city destinations.

Working on the Relationship - CFO - June 29, 2010
Banks say they're eager to lend again, but CFOs find that managing banking relationships is more work for less credit.

Reform Bill Mandates Say on Pay - CFO - June 29, 2010
The financial reform bill would require companies to adopt "say on pay" and put a host of other executive-comp disclosures into effect.

Come Together Over Cybercrime - CFO - June 29, 2010
A Homeland Security official calls on CFOs to break down the corporate silos that house cybercrime risk management.

Tired of Not Buying - CFO - June 29, 2010
Will "frugality fatigue" among consumers help the economy break out of the "new normal" of reduced spending and an aversion to borrowing? Not yet, says a Gallup pollster.

Financial Goals at a Glance - WSJ - June 29, 2010
When most people hear the word "budget,"they groan about all the numbers and spreadsheets involved. Mint.com's new feature looks to take the pain out planning for the future.

Tough choice: BP or nuclear power - MSN Money - June 29, 2010
The oil disaster in the Gulf and concerns over global warming could spur greater interest in building nuke plants. That means new options for investors to explore.

Game, set, match to the IRS - Accounting Web - June 29, 2010
Just before the start of this year’s French Open Tournament, news spread that Murphy Jensen,a doubles champion from the 1993 French Open, was neck deep in hot water with the Internal Revenue Service and two state tax agencies.Jensen, age 41, is a former Atlanta resident now living in Santa Monica, California. Here’s a summary of what he owes: $759,294 in delinquent federal taxes to the IRS, $121,464 to the state of California for back taxes from 2000 to 2003 and 2005 to 2007, and $156,007 in back taxes to the state of Georgia relating to income from 1995 to 1998.read more

Small businesses add 18,000 new jobs in June - Accounting Web - June 29, 2010
Small business employment grew by 0.09 percent in June, equating to a 1.1 percent annual growth rate, according to the latest Small Business Employment Index by Intuit Inc.read more

Subprime for students: A default deluge - MSN Finance - June 29, 2010
For-profit colleges are the fastest-growing sector of education, but will the federal aid that pours into these schools have results similar to the mortgage meltdown?

Should I Start a Business as an S Corp or an LLC? - About.com - June 29, 2010
My "Startup Summer"friends asked me how S Corps and LLCs affect owner taxes and costs of ownership, so I asked  CPA Gail Rosento respond to their questions.Many small businesses seem to be structured as an LLC or an S Corporation.  What is the difference on how these two types of entities are taxed?...Read Full Post

Supreme Court: A Sarbox Split - CFO - June 28, 2010
The Supreme Court rules that the setup of the PCAOB violates separation-of-powers principles, but keeps the board alive – and dashes any prospects of a Sarbanes-Oxley rewrite.

Have Merger Prices Hit Rock Bottom? - CFO - June 28, 2010
Although U.S. M&A activity seems to be reaching its lowest point in seven years, that very lack of activity could mean the time is ripe for acquisitions.

Cutting Your Losses? Review the Accounting - CFO - June 28, 2010
Guidance released by the IRS underscores that the spirit, not the letter, of the rule must be followed with regard to canceling long-term contracts.

Biggest problem now: Job creation - MSN Money - June 28, 2010
Hoping that the end of the recession will fix things isn't going to work. Now that we're not as distracted by more-urgent crises, it's time to come up with some solutions.

Push toward electronic filing continues - Accounting Web - June 28, 2010
With a job as big as the Internal Revenue Service's, there has to be a pack of watchdogs – maybe several packs – to help the agency stay on track. That’s where Electronic Tax Administration Advisory Committee (ETAAC) comes in.read more

Investments that crank out cash - MSN Money - June 28, 2010
Stock market volatility has some investors looking for options that can provide the safety of an income stream. Here's a look at some instruments they're using.

Collecting unpaid taxes four pennies at a time - Accounting Web - June 28, 2010
Aaron Zeff is the owner of Harv’s Metro Car Wash in Sacramento, California. Imagine his surprise when, one day last March, federal agents showed up at his business demanding payment of an amount owed from tax year 2006.read more

After a recession: The time to find niches and opportunities - Accounting Web - June 28, 2010
 The period after a recession is not only a time for licking wounds. It is a time for tracking down new business niches and opportunities.Following is a checklist by business expert Robert Craven.  read more

A day in the life of...a counter fraud specialist - Accounting Web - June 28, 2010
AccountingWEB has teamed up with its UK sister site, AccountingWEB.co.uk, to present a series that explores the lives of members of the accounting profession. Jim Gee, director of counter fraud services at MacIntyre Hudson,gives AccountingWEB an insight into his working life.read more

The psychology of pricing your home - MSN Finance - June 28, 2010
So you've decided to put your house on the market? Banish those sentimental feelings and price it so that more buyers see it -- and notice it. Here's how.

UPDATE: Supreme Court rules PCAOB violates Constitution's separation of powers principle - Accounting Web - June 28, 2010
The U.S. Supreme Court this morning ruled that the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) violates the U.S. Constitution's separation of powers principle because board members are not appointed by the president. read more

3 Things You Must Do Before Talking to a Banker About a Business Loan - About.com - June 28, 2010
This week on Startup Summer: taking your business loan proposal to a bank.  My friends Mario and Eleanora have copies of their business plan, and they have lined up meetings with several banks (more on that later).  Here's what I discussed with them in preparation for their meetings:...Read Full Post

Limited Partnership - About.com. - June 27, 2010
Definition of Limited Partnership

How to Vet a Charity - WSJ - June 26, 2010
Before signing up, do some homework on the nonprofit you'll be "working"for on your vacation.

New Medigap Options - WSJ - June 26, 2010
Consumers shopping for Medicare supplement insurance, or Medigap coverage, have some new options.

Back Down the Ladder - WSJ - June 26, 2010
If job stress is wearing you down, but you can't quit your job altogether, there's an alternative to consider: a voluntary demotion.

Reverse Mortgages Look Better - WSJ - June 26, 2010
Upfront fees on reverse mortgages have fallen substantially in recent months, giving homeowners a new challenge: how to compare offers to find the best one.

'Voluntour' at Home and Abroad - WSJ - June 26, 2010
Known as "voluntourism"or service travel, a growing number of people are combining volunteering with a vacation.

Did China Save Your Retirement? - WSJ - June 26, 2010
China's decision to let its currency appreciate against the dollar could have a positive impact on the U.S. stock market, which would help retirement investments.

How to Save When Dining Out - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 26, 2010
Opt for smaller portions to trim your tab.

Get a Tax Credit for Summer Camp - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 26, 2010
You can claim the cost of day camp if you meet certain requirements.

Grad Degrees From a Distance - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 26, 2010
Online master's degrees are getting more students -- and more respect.

A Questionable Excuse on Immigration - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 26, 2010
At what point will Americans agree that the U.S. has done all it reasonably can to stop illegal immigration?

Ford Looks to Boost Sales Abroad - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 26, 2010
China and India are two large and growing markets on the automaker’s radar screen.

7 Ways to Use Social Networking to Land Your Next Job - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 26, 2010
Facebook and other sites can give you an edge over other candidates.

How to Fix the IPO Market - WSJ - June 25, 2010
If new stock offerings are to resume fostering innovation and creating jobs, the process itself needs to be innovated.

A Contrarian Play on Inflation Fears - WSJ - June 25, 2010
Worried about rising interest rates? Consider floating-rate funds.

Dividends Are Back - WSJ - June 25, 2010
After a dismal 2009, companies are ramping up their payments at a record rate. That's creating big opportunities for investors—even with tax hikes looming.

Financial Watershed - WSJ - June 25, 2010
This week, after months of wrangling, congressional Democrats reached agreement on the legislation that would transform financial regulation. Also, new home sales fell and the Dow dropped 307 points.

Can paying old bills hurt your credit? - MSN Finance - June 25, 2010
A reader wonders whether paying debts from a half-decade ago is a good idea -- or whether it would restart the clock for their inclusion in his credit reports.

Why Mr. Market seems so moody - MSN Money - June 25, 2010
The old man's vision must be failing. Due to the risk taking and speculation of the past decade-plus, he doesn't seem to see major developments before they hit him in the face.

What Offshore Account Holders Need to Know - WSJ - June 25, 2010
With the June 30 deadline for filing foreign-account tax forms imminent, we provide answers to some pressing questions.

When Bankers Tackle Elder Care - WSJ - June 25, 2010
Private banks and trust companies are increasingly helping clients sort out medical bills, hire in-home care or even manage the sale of a home. What's in it for them?

Muni Bonds: Don't Hit the Panic Button Yet - WSJ - June 25, 2010
Defaults are still rare in the vast and complex $2.8 trillion muni-bond market, and bankruptcies are even rarer.

5 cheap places to retire in the US - MSN Finance - June 25, 2010
An expert offers his top picks, taking costs, culture and access to medical care into consideration. Also: How you can find your own 'best place.'

More Shareholder Say on Auditors - CFO - June 25, 2010
An unrelated regulation has prompted more companies to give their investors a vote on accounting firms.

CFOs on the Move: Week Ending June 25 - CFO - June 25, 2010
JPMorgan Chase, Houlihan Lokey, Borders Group, GameStop, Kimco Realty, Eliassen Group, Marshall Edwards, Beneficial Mutual Bancorp, Phoenix Technologies, RTI Biologics.

Low Rates Lure Back CP Issuers - CFO - June 25, 2010
The revived market for commercial paper, coupled with the stagnation of bank lending, has nonfinancial companies boosting their use of this short-term, floating-rate debt instrument.

Social media: How CPA firms can use Google Insight - Accounting Web - June 25, 2010
By Roy KeelyThere are many forms of social media a CPA firm can use other than Twitter or Facebook. Google Insight is one that oftentimes goes unmentioned, yet I find it practical and enlightening because it reinforces traditional and easy-to-understand marketing tactics.read more

Getting Life Insurance After Cancer - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 25, 2010
You may be able to get coverage depending on your condition.

Nab a Deal on a Big-Screen TV - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 25, 2010
The old sets aren't much different than the new ones -- and they're cheaper.

Two Costly Habits to Quit - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 25, 2010
New taxes on tanning and cigarettes are another reason to give up these habits.

A Tax Debate That's Long Overdue - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 25, 2010
Congress may be cutting down the wrong tree in the way it's approaching the deficit.

China's Currency Move Eases Tension - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 25, 2010
But doing more to raise the yuan's value and rebalance trade could create thousands of American jobs.

The 7 Best Mutual Funds for This Market - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 25, 2010
With Europe on edge, this portfolio emphasizes the two best sectors in a volatile market—and also includes two innovative bond funds.

Summer Torpor for Housing Sales - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 25, 2010
A fall revival is still in the cards, but it will be a weak year on balance.

McChrystal Firing Complicates War Plan - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 25, 2010
Obama needed to send a message and he did. Now he needs to win the war.

Upheaval Sweeps Consumer Finance - WSJ - June 25, 2010
Even before Congress unveils a consumer-protection agency, new state and federal laws are ushering in the most sweeping changes in consumer finance since the 1960s.

TI vs. Leasehold Improvement vs. Build-Out - What's the Difference? - About.com - June 25, 2010
What's the difference between "TI,""leasehold improvements,"and "build-out?"  Basically, no difference. It just depends on what industry you are in or who is looking at the issue.All three terms mean work that is done to an office or building to prepare it for the needs of a new tenant.  For example, my friends Mario and Eleanora are considering leasing an office for their practice.  It used to be the office of a massage therapist, so it probably doesn't need much work - just some paint, one wall torn out, a little electrical work.  Some offices they looked at, though, needed alot of work:  tearing down and moving walls, electrical, plumbing, HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), disability access changes, and more....Read Full Post

Why IT Should Be a Snap for CFOs - CFO - June 24, 2010
A renowned technology consultant offers a framework for understanding IT as easily as human resources, operations, and marketing.

Liquidity Worries Haunt Nonprofits - CFO - June 24, 2010
The recession spotlighted the need for more-rigorous reserving.

Why banks aren't afraid of reform - MSN Money - June 24, 2010
Yes, banks led us to the edge of global financial collapse, and yes, lawmakers are determined to rein them in with new rules. So why do bankers seem so cocky?

How a ticket could hurt your credit - MSN Finance - June 24, 2010
Your driving doesn't have anything to do with your creditworthiness, so why should an unpaid ticket torpedo your credit scores?

Credit card issuers dodge new law - MSN Finance - June 24, 2010
Last year's Credit CARD Act was intended to put a halt to excessive fees and sky-high interest rates, but banks are finding creative ways around the restrictions.

The Small-Cap Stock Trap - WSJ - June 24, 2010
The economy is in worse shape than Wall Street realizes—and small-company stocks are the most vulnerable ones. Yet an analysis reveals their valuations are at historic highs compared to large caps.

Making magic: Accounting and card tricks - Accounting Web - June 24, 2010
A successful CPA with a love of magic has found a way to do both. Neil Schloss, founder of Castle Consulting in Hightstown, New Jersey, provides accounting services full time and throws in a card trick or two.Castle's receptionist Colleen Dikert told reporters "Yes, he does tricks in the office. Everyone that has come in the last couple months received a card trick. That's his specialty."read more

Four rap stars make the IRS hit list - Accounting Web - June 24, 2010
The list of famous, well-paid people who owe back taxes is long and getting longer. Lately, it seems the names dominating the list are those of rappers. Here are four recent additions.Bizarreread more

Individual Debt Adjustment - About.com. - June 24, 2010
Bankruptcy Chapter 13 - Individual Debt Adjustment

Business Cell Phone Deductions - About.com. - June 24, 2010
Cell phone tax deduction information.

How Does a Husband-Wife Business Become a Qualified Joint Venture? - About.com - June 24, 2010
I continue to get questions on the issue of the qualified joint venture (QJV). A QJV is simply a husband-wife business that reports its business income on two Schedule C forms. The  couple must "qualify"to become a QJV.  I asked CPA Gail Rosento help clarify the issue and answer some questions:...Read Full Post

Notes from a Job Search: Creative Ways to Market Yourself - CFO - June 23, 2010
Once you get beyond the basics, how can you get noticed without being annoying?

Freeing the Yuan - CFO - June 23, 2010
After nearly two years of being pegged to the dollar, China's currency is beginning to float again.

TAX DEFERRED OPTIONS FOR LEASE PURCHASES - Site Headlines - June 23, 2010
Leasing property to a potential buyer serves a variety of purposes.  The structure is most frequently used when a potential buyer, for whatever reason, does not have the funds available to purchase the property immediately.  The advantage to the buyer is having additional time to obtain the purchase funds (or financing) while still having use of the property.  For the owner, rental income is generated while a buyer and purchase price are locked in, provided the buyer can secure the needed funds or financing within a given period of time.

Business Car Lease Terms - About.com. - June 23, 2010
Car lease terms and factors

Next Incumbent to Go: S.C's Bob Inglis - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 23, 2010
At least one more incumbent is likely to see his career end when the votes are counted Tuesday night.

Obama's Second Year: Less Rhetoric, More Realism - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 23, 2010
A host of new challenges confronts a changed president. Obama will have to settle for much less than he campaigned for.

The Dumbest Financial Laws Of All Time - Forbes - June 23, 2010
Think the new financial reform bill is suspect? Try these legislative gaffes.

IFRS: Paralyzed or Prepared? - CFO - June 22, 2010
Despite many uncertainties, U.S. CFOs can still plan intelligently for the impact of IFRS on their companies.

The Happy Meal Syndrome - CFO - June 22, 2010
Letting employees define their own rewards may be the only way to keep them, argues the co-author of a new book.

7 Lessons the World Cup Offers on the Stock Market - WSJ - June 22, 2010
Brett Arends explains what the beautiful game can teach you about the money game.

IRS Issues FBAR Filing Relief, But Certain Filing Obligations Remain - Site Headlines - June 22, 2010
The IRS has recently issued several pieces of guidance related to the filing of the Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts, IRS Form TD F 90-22.1 (“FBAR”), by pension plan sponsors. While the IRS has relieved some of the filing obligations, most notably the requirement for plans to file for foreign hedge fund investments for 2009 and prior years, certain filing obligations remain.

A Cold, Cold War over Arctic Oil and Gas - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 22, 2010
The U.S. is in the thick of a fight to access huge reserves at the top of the world.

Military Health Coverage and Health Reform - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 22, 2010
People receiving health benefits through TRICARE won't have to purchase additional coverage or pay a penalty when insurance is required for all in 2014.

Afghan Setbacks Threaten Obama Plans - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 22, 2010
How can the administration convince Afghans the U.S. will stay while assuring Americans that a withdrawal will begin next year?

Goodbye, Free Checking - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 22, 2010
Some big banks will start adding fees to accounts that once had none. Here's what you can do to escape them.

Charitable Gift Strategies for the Oil Spill - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 22, 2010
Here's how your generosity can pay off at thttp://secur3kipcms.kiplinger.com/albatross/story.php?id=19980ax time.

How to Tap College Savings - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 22, 2010
If you want to take advantage of the American Opportunity tax credit this year, you can't use 529 plan money to pay all the college tuition bills.

Don't Get Trapped By Medicare Enrollment Rules - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 22, 2010
The rules for enrolling in Medicare are strict, and the cost of making a mistake can be high.

Micro Stocks' Big Payoff - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 22, 2010
The bulk of the benefits for small-cap stock investors come from buying the tiniest of the tiny.

Regulators Rein In Murky Life Policies - WSJ - June 22, 2010
States are going after agents involved in stranger-originated life insurance, policies that older people take out and sell to investors.

For investors, the future is on hold - MSN Money - June 21, 2010
What happened to the dire predictions of higher interest rates and inflation? Those may still happen, but here's how to adjust your investment strategy in the meantime.

Free Cash Flow: At the Brink? - CFO - June 21, 2010
Up until now, companies have been able to find extra cash by cutting costs and capital spending. But if revenues stay flat, margins might narrow drastically.

Avoiding the "Mutually Exclusive" Deal Trap - CFO - June 21, 2010
It's important to understand what the IRS says about deal transaction costs with respect to pursuing more than one strategy.

2010's most loved (and hated) funds - MSN Money - June 21, 2010
As the year's first half nears its end, investors are fleeing big stock funds for bond funds. Are you going with the flow? Inflow and outflow figures can tell you.

Intuit uses social media during service outage - Accounting Web - June 21, 2010
Routine maintenance exposed a hole in Intuit's online infrastructure last week. According to the company, an accidental power failure took down both primary and backup systems, which, in turn, caused disruptions to several Web sites and online services.read more

Technology motivates younger generation - Accounting Web - June 21, 2010
Prospective employers looking to recruit students need to be aware of their technology preferences and provide the tools and equipment they are accustomed to using in their personal lives, according to a study by Accenture.read more

Identifying, understanding (and marketing to) the generations - Accounting Web - June 21, 2010
For years, marketers have made it their business to study different age groups for ways to best reach out to, and communicate with, the various generations. But who are we referring to when we break down the generations?read more

SBA 504 Loans - About.com. - June 20, 2010
Describes the SBA 504 loan program.

Avoiding a Summer Slump - WSJ - June 19, 2010
The lazy days of summer are a good time to step up your game, by learning the ins and outs of an organization, showing initiative and getting in on new projects.

Want Your Old Job Back? - WSJ - June 19, 2010
If you've been laid off and your former employer is hiring again, it's important to consider whether returning is a good idea—and whether the skills you bring are what the company needs now.

Deadline Ahead for Energy Credit - WSJ - June 19, 2010
Homeowners have until the end of the year to make improvements that qualify for a federal energy-efficiency tax credit, including insulation upgrades and purchases of heating and air-conditioning equipment.

Drug Rebate Is Mailed Out - WSJ - June 19, 2010
Some participants in Medicare Part D prescription-drug plans should be on the lookout for a check in the mail.

Money Lessons From Mom and Dad - WSJ - June 19, 2010
We learn more about saving and investing from personal experience than from any expert. On this Father's Day, Tom Lauricella shares his parents' real-life financial lessons.

Four Ways to Boost Your Nest Egg - WSJ - June 19, 2010
With the economy still struggling, investors are seeking additional steps to shore up retirement savings. We provide some tips.

Key Industrial Resources Face a Tepid Recovery - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 19, 2010
Good old supply and demand are back in control of the prices of industrial metals, cement and lumber.

What's Special About Special Dividends? - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 19, 2010
Cash-rich companies are likely to make big one-time payouts this year. But the rewards for investors might not be so special.

How to Protect Parents from Elder Investment Fraud - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 19, 2010
Your mom and dad may be at a greater risk for exploitation than you think.

Protect Your Parents From Scams - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 19, 2010
Follow these steps to lower the chances that your mom or dad will become victims.

Air Travelers Face Higher Fees -- Again - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 19, 2010
The latest merger plus crowded planes mean more hassles.

Deflation? We Could Take a Sip - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 19, 2010
CPI drops have some alarmed. But falling prices are like booze: Fine in moderation, just not to be overdone.

The Price of Saving Fuel - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 19, 2010
Measure the five-year ownership costs to see whether it really pays to buy a green vehicle.

New Bank Fees: How to Fight Back - WSJ - June 18, 2010
Higher fees, and more of them, are coming soon to a financial institution near you. The first and biggest casualty in the new fee assault: free checking.

Is There a Cure for Financial Illiteracy? - WSJ - June 18, 2010
While nearly everyone agrees that Americans of all ages and income levels could be more astute about money, no one has a good plan for making it happen.

Flood Insurance Gets Harder to Find - WSJ - June 18, 2010
People looking to bolster their homeowners-insurance protection are likely to find that premiums are pricier, and extra coverage is harder to get, than ever before.

5 funds to ease you back into the market - MSN Money - June 18, 2010
Conservative-allocation funds typically invest in a mix of stocks, bonds and cash. Their diversification can help investors manage risk and preserve capital.

Is a Roth IRA Safe From Taxes? - WSJ - June 18, 2010
As lawmakers wrestle with debts and deficits of epic proportions. wary taxpayers are trying to calculate the odds of making a move they will regret.

Cash Crops: Buying Farmland for Income - WSJ - June 18, 2010
Some investors nervous about the stock market and in search of better returns than a money-market fund are plowing cash into farmland.

Brighter Days for Bonds? - CFO - June 18, 2010
New issuances suggest that investor anxiety over economic troubles in Europe may be easing.

An Unplugged Vacation? Not for CFOs - CFO - June 18, 2010
A survey confirms that finance chiefs have a hard time leaving the job behind, even at the beach.

CFOs on the Move: Week Ending June 18 - CFO - June 18, 2010
International Monetary Systems, Unilife, Delphi Automotive, Alaska Air Group, Federal-Mogul, Celsion, Presidential Life, Ikanos Communications, Amonix, Caleco Pharma.

What is My Estimated Tax? - About.com. - June 18, 2010
How to figure estimated tax required for businesses

Republicans Set for Big Gains In Governor Races - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 18, 2010
An abundance of open-seat races bodes well for the GOP.

Domestic Reserves of Natural Gas To Go Untapped? - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 18, 2010
Democrats are rethinking policies allowing extraction of gas locked up in rock. An ExxonMobil venture hangs in the balance.

Auto Sales Digging Out of a Deep Hole - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 18, 2010
Full recovery for the carmaking industry is still far down the road.

Personal Finance Roundup - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 18, 2010
A weekly look at money advice from across the Web.

Traveler's Survival Guide - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 18, 2010
What to do if a volcanic eruption, or any other unanticipated calamity, threatens to ground your travel plans.

The Rich Are Different: They're Optimistic - CFO - June 17, 2010
Affluent consumers are fast becoming an attractive end-point for corporate supply chains, a new survey suggests.

Living Like It's 1931 - CFO - June 17, 2010
Law professor Frank Partnoy questions whether the regulatory reform bill under debate in Congress will be enough to move the economy toward prosperity.

Time bombs put portfolios in peril - MSN Money - June 17, 2010
In the next several months, any or all of these could detonate, and each has the potential to inflict serious damage on your investments.

Bloomberg poll: Investing in the United States is a good idea - Accounting Web - June 17, 2010
In the world of investments, BRICs are the large emerging markets made up of Brazil, Russia, India, and China. Just months ago a poll of global investors rated the United States well below China and Brazil as an attractive market to buy into.read more

Senate responds to glut of prospective homebuyers seeking tax credits - Accounting Web - June 17, 2010
In response to the backlog of first-time homebuyers hoping to take advantage of federal tax credits, the Senate this week agreed to extend the measure for three months.The amendment, sponsored by Sen. Harry Reid (D-Nev.), is intended to give the approximately 180,000 homebuyers enough time to close on their respective deals and qualify for federal tax incentives. The Senate passed the extension 60-37.read more

Retiring healthy? That could cost you - MSN Finance - June 17, 2010
The better shape you're in when you retire, the more you'll have to pay for health care, a report says -- as much as $105,000 more than someone in poor health.

Massive extenders bill fails in the Senate - Accounting Web - June 17, 2010
The $141 billion spending bill casually dubbed the extenders bill failed in the Senate yesterday. Forty-five Senators voted for it, fifty-two against.read more

The Kiplinger Letter's Best and Worst Forecasts of 2009 - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 17, 2010
The year began with the economy in a tailspin, but saw better days by midsummer -- and was right. Plenty of other good forecasts, too -- some, not so…

How Do You Find Time to Find Deals? - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 17, 2010
I want your tips on how to incorporate bargain hunting into a daily life filled with work, kids and more.

Smart Moves in Today's Market - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 17, 2010
Risks remain. But thanks to strong earnings and low interest rates, stocks should finish the year in the black.

End Is Seen to Free Checking - WSJ - June 16, 2010
Bank of America and other banks are preparing new fees on basic banking services as they try to replace revenue lost to regulatory rules, in a push that is expected to spell an end to free checking accounts for many Americans.

Health Costs: Sharing the Pain - CFO - June 16, 2010
Companies will require employees to pay more for their health care as costs rise in the near term, says a new study.

Pop goes the bond fund balloon? - MSN Money - June 16, 2010
Shellshocked investors are pouring money into bonds for their perceived safety. But are they buying into a bubble?

Office 2010 has arrived! Customize your ribbon! - Accounting Web - June 16, 2010
By David H. Ringstrom, CPAread more

IASB, FASB to focus on convergence between IFRS and US GAAP - Accounting Web - June 16, 2010
The International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and the U.S. Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) recently announced their intention to prioritize major convergence projects to permit a sharper focus on issues and projects they believe will bring about significant improvement and convergence between International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). read more

Can immigrants save housing? - MSN Finance - June 16, 2010
A Harvard-issued report says immigrants and their children may help correct the biggest housing crisis in 60 years -- but don’t look a big boost in prices.

PricewaterhouseCoopers offers guidance on cloud computing, resolving technology barriers - Accounting Web - June 16, 2010
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (PwC) has released its executive publication, 10Minutes on the Cloud, which is part of PwC's 10Minutes series providing "straight to-the-point" perspectives on critical business issues for senior executives, including new insight into the opportunities available to organizations through cloud computing.read more

FTC delays enforcement of "Red Flags" rule - Accounting Web - June 16, 2010
At the request of several members of Congress, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has extended the compliance deadline for the Red Flagsrule from June 1 through December 31, 2010, while lawmakers consider legislation that would affect the scope of entities covered by the rule.read more

Retire overseas on $1,200 a month - MSN Finance - June 16, 2010
It's possible to live in luxury on a pauper's budget -- if you're willing to leave the US. Here are 5 places a Social Security check will buy a lifestyle that's at least comfortable.

IRS issues regulations regarding tax on tanning services - Accounting Web - June 16, 2010
The Internal Revenue Service recently has issued regulations outlining the administration of a 10 percent excise tax on indoor tanning services that goes into effect on July 1.read more

Debt Collection Process - About.com. - June 16, 2010
When you start a business, one of your first tasks should be setting up a debt collection system, including payments, billing, accounts receivable, collections processes, and learning about debt collection laws. Read this article to get information on how to set up a debt collection system.

Facebook's Community Pages Upset Businesses - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 16, 2010
The social networking giant is scrambling to address company concerns.

Slow Recovery Likely for Business Travel - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 16, 2010
Firms are a long way from returning to the days of big spending.

Impact of Health Reform on Military Health Coverage - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 16, 2010
The law doesn't require Tricare to let children up to age 26 stay on their parents' plans -- but new legislation might.

Maine Turns Down State Tax Tradeoff - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 16, 2010
Voters reject more sales taxes in exchange for lower income taxes.

Retire South of the Border - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 16, 2010
Warm weather and a low cost of living lure retirees from the U.S.

5 Stocks Dad Will Love - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 16, 2010
Companies with dad-friendly products also make good investments.

Next in a series of new legislation from Congress: Jobs and loopholes - Accounting Web - June 15, 2010
If Senate Democratic leaders have their way, they will vote this week on the American Jobs and Closing Tax Loopholes Act,which is an amended version of a bill passed in late May by the House (HR 4213). read more

The Cloud Casts a Shadow - CFO - June 15, 2010
Lured by easy, inexpensive cloud-computing services, business units are bypassing IT departments when choosing solutions, creating a rise in "shadow IT."

Tactics to bear-proof your portfolio - MSN Money - June 15, 2010
Nontraditional mutual funds and ETFs designed to act as buffers in down markets can help investors manage risk and preserve capital.

Tesla Motors: IPO Fueled By Glamour - WSJ - June 15, 2010
With its high-profile CEO and sleek electric cars Tesla and its public offering look pretty hot, but does the company have what it takes to go the distance? Brett Arends pops the hood.

Homebuyer credit may be extended - MSN Finance - June 15, 2010
With the cutoff to qualify for a federal tax credit fast approaching, Congress wants to delay the deadline for consumers scrambling to close transactions. 

Should kids carry credit cards? - MSN Finance - June 15, 2010
Tales of other people's credit woes can be a learning tool for your children. Whether or not you trust them with plastic, it's important to teach the pros and cons of credit.

Louisiana businesses must plan for the future now - Accounting Web - June 15, 2010
The Deepwater Horizon oil spill is the third disaster the residents and businesses of Louisiana have faced in five years.read more

AICPA national MAP survey is underway - Accounting Web - June 15, 2010
The AICPA Private Companies Practice Section, in partnership with the Texas Society of CPAs, is gathering data for its much-anticipated benchmarking survey, which enables firms to compare management policies and financial results against other firms.read more

Father celebrates 50 years at firm with son as partner - Accounting Web - June 15, 2010
Bill Rush Mosby, of Natchez, MS-based Silas Simmons LLP, is celebrating his 50th anniversary as a CPA. For 20 of those years, he worked with his son.Mosby told The Natchez Democrat that on his first day of work in 1960, the technology of the office consisted of adding machines on each desk and two massive, clunky Friden calculators for more complicated work."Now everything we do is on the computer," he told the newspaper. "If you gave a new CPA one of those machines we had, I doubt they would know what to do."read more

Accountant, first female vendor at Shea Stadium feted by Mets - Accounting Web - June 15, 2010
Susan Rich, the first woman vendor at Shea Stadium in the 1970s, recently was saluted by the New York Mets.Rich, a 50-year-old accountant from Stamford, Connecticut, was able to step onto the new Citi Field during batting practice and enjoyed seats near home plate for a Florida Marlins game June 5, the New York Daily News reported. She also received a scoreboard salute. Rich must have enjoyed the 6-1 win, but her husband, who also attended, is a diehard Yankees fan.read more

Proud to Be an American - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 15, 2010
My immigrant husband shares which personal finance freedom he has enjoyed most in the U.S.

Where the Economy Is Headed - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 15, 2010
Stronger business spending and rising employment will help this recovery shake off worries about Europe.

Government Benefits Go Paperless - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 15, 2010
The Social Security Administration and other federal agencies plan to switch from paper checks to debit cards next year.

Utilities Trump REITs - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 15, 2010
Real estate investment trusts may be in bubble territory and utilities are in the bargain basement.

When to buy emerging-market stocks - MSN Money - June 14, 2010
You probably know the big reasons developing economies are growing. Here's how to tell when to favor emerging-market stocks over their developed-world counterparts.

Seven Pillars of Hedging Wisdom - CFO - June 14, 2010
In volatile markets, it pays to keep an eye on the foundations of effective hedging.

IRS Attacks "Blocker" Partnerships - CFO - June 14, 2010
In May, the IRS made it tougher for foreign investors to escape taxation.

Honk if you're an aggressive driver - MSN Finance - June 14, 2010
Then again, you may want to keep a low profile this summer. Several states are cracking down on drivers who may view their rude, risky behavior as justified.

IRS deals professional poker player a bad hand - Accounting Web - June 14, 2010
Poker has been good to Michael “The Grinder” Mizrachi. The nickname came from his never-give-up mentality. He’s only 29 years old, but in the six years since he joined the professional poker circuit in 2004, he has won more than $6.7 million.read more

Twin Cities IRS agent nabbed in alleged bribe attempt - Accounting Web - June 14, 2010
A Twin Cities agent of the Internal Revenue Service, who had filed for bankruptcy approximately two weeks earlier, allegedly offered two businessmen a deal: I’ll cut your tax liability by more than 80 percent if you pay me $9,700.read more

Fewer than half of large companies’ 401(k) plans include automatic enrollment - Accounting Web - June 14, 2010
A growing number of employers have added an automatic enrollment feature to their 401(k) plans in the past few years. AARP commissioned a national telephone survey of large employers with 401(k) plans to better understand employer attitudes toward and experiences with two automatic 401(k) features: automatic enrollment and automatic escalation.read more

A day in the life of…a 30-year-old partner - Accounting Web - June 14, 2010
AccountingWEB has teamed up with its UK sister site, AccountingWEB.co.uk, to present a series that explores the lives of members of the accounting profession. This week we profile Myfanwy Neville. At the age of 30, Neville became one of the youngest partners ever at Berg Kaprow Lewis LLP Accountants in London. Here, she outlines how she went from graduate trainee to audit partner in just nine years. read more

Toxic Citizens? - WSJ - June 13, 2010
American expatriates are fast becoming the world's financial refugees as onerous legislation from the U.S. government makes it too difficult –and too expensive –for banks to service U.S. citizens that live abroad.

How to Think Smarter About Risk - WSJ - June 13, 2010
Too many investors may be taking big chances with their money because they aren't considering the most important asset of all: themselves.

Teens Need Wills, Too - WSJ - June 13, 2010
Some experts say a will should be drawn up as soon as a child turns 18. Here is some expert advice on why many teens need wills, and how to go about it.

Reasons Not to Convert to a Roth IRA - WSJ - June 13, 2010
Conversions from traditional individual retirement accounts to Roth IRAs are way up, thanks to the elimination of the income limit for those wanting to make the switch. But conversions aren't for everybody.

Investors Fill Film Funding Gap - WSJ - June 13, 2010
Funds are finding innovative ways to finance movies and make a return for investors.

The Secrets of the Family Office - WSJ - June 13, 2010
The firms at the top of the wealth pyramid, which manage the money of Europe's wealthiest families, cost millions to run.

A Flight to Tangibles - WSJ - June 13, 2010
Paintings and sculptures by the best artists are considered a safe haven by investors.

Middle Age Crazy? It'll Cost You - WSJ - June 12, 2010
In a tough economy, midlife U-turns involve a host of new risks—and costs—that boomers previously didn't have to worry about as much.

Will Your Business Idea Fly? - WSJ - June 12, 2010
If you are financially motivated to launch a business, you may be tempted to simply jump in. But experts recommend taking the time to determine if your venture has legs to stand on.

Fitting In As a New Hire - WSJ - June 12, 2010
It's tough being the new hire in a workplace that's been hit by layoffs and budget cutbacks, but you can find a way to fit in without being brought down yourself.

Do-It-Yourself Energy Audits - WSJ - June 12, 2010
For many homeowners, electricity use is highest during the summer. But before you pay for a professional home-energy audit, here are some ways to curb your energy usage.

Dividends Reign as Market Pours - WSJ - June 12, 2010
The retreat in stock prices has created some investment possibilities. A basket of dividend payers can be a shrewd way to position your portfolio to ride out the storm.

Charitable Contributions to IRAs - WSJ - June 12, 2010
Tom Herman answers a reader's question about a tax law on charitable contributions to individual retirement accounts.

There's Gold in Family Roots - WSJ - June 12, 2010
The pursuit of genealogy has hit the big time. That presents a world of opportunity for Ancestry.com, which went public last year.

Close First, Then Splurge - WSJ - June 12, 2010
More mortgage lenders are pulling last-minute credit reports, and sudden changes to credit balances and assets could delay a closing or bump up an interest rate.

Section 179 Depreciation - Sta - About.com. - June 12, 2010
Lists U.S. states which have different Section 179 deductions than those of the federal government.

How to Skimp on Printer Ink - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 12, 2010
Lower your printing costs with these three tips.

Should Voting Be Mandatory? - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 12, 2010
It might be the best way to fix Washington's worst problem.

Online Daily Deals Help Firms Gain Traffic - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 12, 2010
E-mailed promotions lure new customers with big discounts

Electric Bills to Surge in Coal Burning Areas - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 12, 2010
Green power requirements will require utilities to invest big -- and raise rates.

6 Stocks Poised for Big Gains - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 12, 2010
It's time to focus on high-quality companies.

It's Never Too Late for a Roth IRA - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 12, 2010
The prospect of tax-free income in retirement may be too good to pass up, regardless of your age.

The Case for Debt - WSJ - June 12, 2010
It might seem crazy, but there's never been a better time for disciplined investors to take on debt to boost their portfolios.

Gifts for Budding Investors - WSJ - June 11, 2010
A growing number of financial products are being marketed for their gift-giving potential.

Still Stuck at Dow 10000 - WSJ - June 11, 2010
This isn't the first time stocks have been stuck on a seemingly endless pogo-stick ride. A look back at Dow 1000 may still help us think a little more clearly about Dow 10000.

Luke Skywalker, Supply-Chain Hero - CFO - June 11, 2010
Employing a Star Warsmetaphor, OfficeMax's Reuben Slone argues for an enlightened approach to supply-chain management.

Living on $18,000 a year -- by choice - MSN Finance - June 11, 2010
Meet 3 people who live on that amount (or much less) while following their dreams. They're thrifty, sure, but also content.

Gold: Ultimate overdraft protection - MSN Money - June 11, 2010
With uncertainty, volatility and money printing the orders of the day, one asset is the clear winner when it comes to protecting wealth.

How the New Wealth Taxes Will Hit You - WSJ - June 11, 2010
The health-care bill that Congress passed in March contained two surprising new taxes to help pay for the changes. Here's how they work.

Can 'Trading Down' Still Bankroll Your Retirement? - WSJ - June 11, 2010
Trading down to a smaller home is a retirement-planning staple. But it is getting a lot harder to do, even for wealthier people.

Hay Is for Hedge Funds - WSJ - June 11, 2010
Should you bet on a new fund that invests in horses?

CFOs on the Move: Week Ending June 11 - CFO - June 11, 2010
Viacom, Orbitz Worldwide, Rosetta Stone, Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings, The Princeton Review, Spigit, Energy Partners, Delivery Agent, Miami Jewish Health Systems, Heelys.

Luke Skywalker, Supply Chain Hero - CFO - June 11, 2010
Employing a Star Warsmetaphor, OfficeMax's Reuben Slone argues for an enlightened approach to supply chain management.

Notes from a Job Search: Staying Motivated - CFO - June 11, 2010
A CFO on the job hunt talks about how to endure a long, lonely process.

Federal Reserve Publishes Rules Implementing Provisions of the CARD Act Relating to Gift Cards, Gift Certificates and Prepaid Cards - Site Headlines - June 11, 2010
The Federal Reserve Board has published final rules implementing the provisions of the Credit Card Act of 2009 relating to gift cards, gift certificates and "general use prepaid cards.” The rule applies to all covered products sold or issued to a consumer on or after August 22, 2010.

House Approves Revised Extender Package with Expanded Offsets; Senate Action is Expected in June - Site Headlines - June 11, 2010
The House has voted (215 to 204) to approve legislation (H.R. 4213) to extend a number of popular existing tax incentives, continue benefits for the unemployed and extend the time for correcting certain pension shortfalls. Over $44 billion in new taxes would be used to offset a portion of the cost of these provisions.

Exercise Diligence When Seeking Voluntary Disclosure and Settlement of Unclaimed Property Liabilities - Site Headlines - June 11, 2010
Caution: Don't expect a state to routinely accept a Voluntary Disclosure Agreement (VDA) and settlement of your outstanding unclaimed property liabilities without question or audit. A number of states, including Delaware, provide VDA programs for holders with unclaimed property liabilities. However, the recent settlement of a case in Delaware Chancery Court illustrates holders must exercise caution and perform their own due diligence prior to participating in these programs.

Get Ready for Onerous New 1099 Reporting Rules - Site Headlines - June 11, 2010
Businesses and not-for-profit organizations are accustomed to IRS rules that require them to report certain payments on annual Form 1099 information returns. However, the recently enacted healthcare law imposes surprising new Form 1099 reporting requirements. Complying with them may add significantly to your organization's paperwork burden. While the new rules don't apply to payments made before 2012, it's not too early to start gearing up to deal with them.

Benefits of Biking to Work Keep Adding Up - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 11, 2010
Buckle up (your helmet) -- it’s Bike-to-Work Week.

Secrets of a Top Fund Manager - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 11, 2010
The longtime manager of Fidelity Low-Priced Stock tells how he built his fabulous record and how he’s reacting to wild markets.

Fight over Debit Card Fees Far from Over - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 11, 2010
State governments are joining banks in the protest over lower processing fees.

Auditors' Lingering Doubts - CFO - June 10, 2010
The skepticism of accounting firms about the viability of their public-company clients continued unabated in 2009.

Pull your portfolio out of its rut - MSN Money - June 10, 2010
You can't rely on old investing habits to guide you in this volatile market; instead, explore your discomfort zone. Here's how. Also: 3 finds from out-of-the-way places.

When a robber waits at the ATM - MSN Finance - June 10, 2010
Not much stands between you and a crook at a cash machine, but security measures such as alarm buttons and secret codes might actually make you less safe.

Cost of Raising a Child Ticks Up - WSJ - June 10, 2010
A child born in 2009 will cost about $222,360, to raise to maturity, up a little less than 1% from 2008, according to new data.

Local Licenses and Permits - About.com. - June 10, 2010
Types of local licenses and permits a business might need to apply for.

Stockholders Shareholders - About.com. - June 10, 2010
Stockholders Shareholders Defined

Types of Partnerships - About.com. - June 10, 2010
Partnership Types: Limited Partnership, Limited Liability Partnership, General Partnership

Banks, Unions Are Big Ark. Losers - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 10, 2010
Sen. Blanche Lincoln's come-from-behind win may have lasting repercussions for both groups.

Overcome Your Fear of Haggling - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 10, 2010
Don't be afraid to use this money skill to your advantage.

Europe's Woes Hurt U.S. Commercial Real Estate - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 10, 2010
On the bright side, overbuilding is low and the the Russians have cash to spend.

6 new rules for retirement - MSN Finance - June 10, 2010
Difficult times call for different measures, and the old guidelines no longer apply. These steps can help you get the most out of what you have.

The Recovery: Still Jobless - CFO - June 9, 2010
Three out of four CFOs in the latest Duke/CFOsurvey have plans for growth, but the employment outlook remains bleak.

How Wall Street stokes populist fury - MSN Money - June 9, 2010
Record levels of income inequality contribute to the sour mood of the citizenry. Brushing off responsibility for the excesses of the bubble doesn't help.

Employees working off-site becoming more attractive to employers - Accounting Web - June 9, 2010
A growing number of employees are working from home, either on a full-time or part-time basis, an arrangement that can have significant advantages for employers.read more

7 insurance myths that could cost you - MSN Finance - June 9, 2010
If you reject rental car coverage without a second thought or assume the government would cover your losses in a natural disaster, think again.

4 big companies built on the cheap - MSN Money - June 9, 2010
Most entrepreneurs would prefer a well-capitalized launch, but these companies show it's possible to flourish despite meager beginnings.

Swiss Parliament Votes to Block Disclosure - Site Headlines - June 9, 2010
A week after the upper house of the Swiss parliament ok'd the disclosure of UBS clients to the US government, the lower house of parliament voted to block disclosure.  This may set up a national referendum on this issue, and may lead to the indictment of UBS by the US government.

Pay freeze continues for majority of finance execs - Accounting Web - June 9, 2010
Reflective of the past year’s economic woes, a majority of financial professionals still are not receiving salary increases, according to a recent survey conducted by Financial Executives Research Foundation (FERF).read more

Business and Personal Funds - About.com. - June 9, 2010
How to keep business and personal funds separate

The Right Way to Get a Complaint Resolved - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 9, 2010
Venting on consumer complaint sites may help you let off steam, but it won't solve your problems. You're better off following these steps.

How Green is Your Label? - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 9, 2010
Some identify products that may be good for your health or help save the environment, but only one focuses on saving you money.

Obama's Secret Weapon on Climate Bill - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 9, 2010
The EPA is moving full steam ahead, putting real pressure on Congress.

States Vying for Alternative-Energy Firms - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 9, 2010
Take a look at which states are landing key solar and other high-tech firms.

The Ideal Fund for This Wild Market - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 9, 2010
Vanguard Convertible Securities, which just reopened to new investors, has beaten the stock market over the past ten years with far less risk -- and pays an attractive yield.

Goodwill Charges Sink Like a Rock - CFO - June 8, 2010
Goodwill impairment charges plummeted in 2009, reflecting large write-downs in 2008 and an improving economy.

Ethics and the Bottom Line - CFO - June 8, 2010
A company's ethical lapses can be far more costly than executives imagine, says one expert.

Time for investors to wait and watch - MSN Money - June 8, 2010
Don't feel motivated to do any buying or selling? Join the club. But while conditions are less than tantalizing, focus on pruning your portfolio and forming a watch list.

From rags to world's richest - MSN Finance - June 8, 2010
People from backgrounds of hardship -- with little to lose -- may be less afraid to take big risks. Here are 10 moguls who rose from adversity.

The Boardroom Buyer's Strike - WSJ - June 8, 2010
During the biggest buying opportunities of the past decade executives have been eager buyers of stocks in their own companies. Right now? Not so much, writes Brett Arends.

Madoff whistleblower to speak at MNCPA conference - Accounting Web - June 8, 2010
The Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants’ Management & Business Advisers Conference (MBAC10) will bring together business and financial professionals for two days of education and knowledge sharing.read more

American investors: Predictably stupid - MSN Money - June 8, 2010
Not only are our brains irrational, but our behavior is easily predicted by wolves on Wall Street, who are only too eager to lead us sheep to the slaughterhouse.

Starr quality: Not what you want in a financial advisor - Accounting Web - June 8, 2010
Being rich and famous does not necessarily make you smart. That could be why so many wealthy people trust the untrustworthy.read more

Disney employee finds out the hard way: Insider trading doesn’t pay - Accounting Web - June 8, 2010
Disneyland may be the happiest place in the world, but one Disney employee and her boyfriend are not smiling.read more

Two ways to determine your top customers in QuickBooks, Excel - Accounting Web - June 8, 2010
By David H. Ringstrom, CPAGiven the length of the Great Recession, your top customers today might not be the same folks who were your top customers even a couple months ago. In this article I'll demonstrate two ways that you can determine who your top customers are based on total sales.The first technique involves a minor tweak to an existing QuickBooks report, while the second demonstrates a couple of tricks that I use to transform QuickBooks reports into usable data in Excel.read more

LLC Taxed as Corporation - About.com. - June 8, 2010
A limited liability is taxed as either a partnership (if it has multiple members) or a sole proprietorship (if it has one member). But an LLC can elect to be taxed as a corporation. Read this discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of having your LLC taxed as a corporation.

On Tap: Son of Stimulus - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 8, 2010
Washington is responding to the growing urgency to reduce unemployment with another round of spending.

Tricks ID Thieves Use - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 8, 2010
Knowing which red flags to watch for will help you protect your identity.

Health Law Likely to Add to Employer Costs - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 8, 2010
Mandates kick in before any savings, but there are some things firms can do in the short term.

Pictet Partner Reflects on Career - WSJ - June 8, 2010
Over a 30-year career with the Swiss private bank that bears his name, Ivan Pictet counts the bank's expansion into Asia among its most significant achievements.

Can Warrants Be Used to Complete a Spin-Off? - CFO - June 7, 2010
A handful of older tax cases lay the groundwork for such a move, but there are caveats.

Survey: It's a Riskier World - CFO - June 7, 2010
Finance chiefs worldwide say that risks are increasing, and they are using a variety of strategies to manage them.

3 ways to fend off a bad market - MSN Money - June 7, 2010
When things get ugly, many investors turn away from stocks and stock funds. But you're likely to do better with funds like these that know how to weather a storm.

Launch a solo 401(k) for small-business clients - Accounting Web - June 7, 2010
Many small-business clients run their operation as a one-person show. Once the business has turned the corner, the owner can focus on setting aside more funds for retirement. And the more he or she can save each year, the merrier the client will be.read more

Most executives remain confident about business growth - Accounting Web - June 7, 2010
Six percent of chief financial officers (CFOs) said they plan to hire full-time accounting and finance employees during the third quarter of 2010, while 9 percent anticipate staff reductions, according to the Robert Half Financial Hiring Index. The majority of respondents, 83 percent, do not expect to make changes to their personnel levels.read more

State of Florida launching tax amnesty program July 1 - Accounting Web - June 7, 2010
Florida residents who owe back taxes can settle their debts without fear of penalties and criminal prosecution under an amnesty program that runs from July 1 to September 1.read more

Gulf fishermen see livelihoods disappear, region’s economy suffers - Accounting Web - June 7, 2010
Louisiana fishermen are beginning to come to terms with the harsh realities of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Not only do they face the loss of income this year, their fishing grounds and their way of life might be disappearing.read more

What 100-somethings can teach us - MSN Finance - June 7, 2010
Those who hit the 100-year milestone don't just have longer lives. They have lives freer of medical problems and financial worries, even though many aren't well-off.

Clifton Gunderson merges with St. Louis-based Humes &Barrington - Accounting Web - June 7, 2010
Clifton Gunderson, a Milwaukee-based certified public accounting and consulting firm, recently announced it has merged with Humes & Barrington LLP – a full-service CPA firm based in St. Louis.read more

Should you be able to sell a kidney? - MSN Finance - June 7, 2010
We've grown accustomed to wombs for rent, but selling organs? We're squeamish about that. It may be time to rethink laws that ban payment.

June Business Tax Calendar - About.com. - June 7, 2010
Business taxes that must be reported and paid in June.

Don't Give Up on Europe - WSJ - June 6, 2010
Amid worries about the tumbling euro, here are seven reasons not to dump foreign-stock funds.

Make Yourself at Home - WSJ - June 5, 2010
Looking to get away this summer without breaking your budget? Think beyond the hotel and hostel.

Send Your Stock Pick for the Next Contest - WSJ - June 5, 2010
It's time for Sunday Journal's 40th Investment Dartboard contest, so get ready to test your stock-picking prowess.

What's Your Energy Score? - WSJ - June 5, 2010
A new free tool may help people get a better handle on their home's energy consumption.

Reviewing IRA Rules - WSJ - June 5, 2010
Tom Herman answers a reader's question about IRA contributions.

Getting in the Game - WSJ - June 5, 2010
Becoming a full-time employee after a career of freelance and contract work isn't always an easy transition. Here are some tips.

Insurance Relief for Early Retirees - WSJ - June 5, 2010
Early retirement, a dream of many, can turn into a nightmare for those unable to secure health insurance. Now, two new federal programs may provide some relief.

Employers Lowballing New Hires - WSJ - June 5, 2010
The job market may be recovering, but some salary offers are still a few years behind.

You Can Still Make Money in This Market - WSJ - June 5, 2010
Carnage in financial markets has investors nervous, but the turmoil also is creating bargains for investors with courage to do some buying of beaten-down shares.

Business Address Change - About.com. - June 5, 2010
How to notify federal, state, local agencies about your business address change.

S Corporation vs. LLC Taxes - About.com. - June 5, 2010
Attorney Robert Warwick discusses the s corporation business form vs. the limited liability company.

Start a Partnership - About.com. - June 5, 2010
Starting a partnership, with partnership agreement, partnership taxes, types of partnerships, limited partnerships, general partnerships, limited liability partnerships.

My Story: Going for Gold, Staying Out of the Red - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 5, 2010
Olympic steeplechase hopeful Mason Cathey, of Indianapolis, Indiana, is in training for the 2012 London Games while keeping her finances on track.

More Big Party Primaries, More Anti-Incumbent Fervor - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 5, 2010
The Tea Party movement is banking on a few more wins in the June 8 voting.

Three Plans to Help Small Business - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 5, 2010
The Obama administration is looking to make selling easier -- particularly abroad.

No, Health Benefits Won't Be Taxed - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 5, 2010
And anyone who tells you that Kiplinger reported otherwise has it all wrong.

Free Tax Help from the IRS - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 5, 2010
Did you get a nastygram from the IRS? Come talk things out.

6 Steps to Protect Your Home from Hurricanes - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 5, 2010
You don't have to just sit there worrying about the weather.

Employers Get the Jitters - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 5, 2010
Private firms will pick up hiring again in June.

Hotels, Airlines Woo Business Travelers - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 5, 2010
And looser travel policies will let employees take advantage as the economy improves.

Helping Kids Fend for Themselves - WSJ - June 4, 2010
Between rent, cellphones and health insurance, families are finding it harder than ever to stop supporting their adult children financially.

Best (and Worst) Overseas Assignments - CFO - June 4, 2010
A new ranking of world cities by the quality of life they offer can help companies determine how much an expat assignment should pay.

Certainties: Death, Taxes, and the Cloud - CFO - June 4, 2010
Companies will increasingly use cloud computing for essential business functions as their fears about security and other issues prove groundless, a consultant and former CIO predicts.

Playing Gold Without Getting Killed - WSJ - June 4, 2010
This is the final installment in the three-part series "The Gold, the Bad and the Ugly."

Tax Tips for the Rest of the Year - WSJ - June 4, 2010
Midyear is a great time to plan time-consuming moves, such as taking advantage of special tax credits for energy improvements to your home.

Credit Unions: Better Bet Than Banks? - WSJ - June 4, 2010
With their fatter yields and lower fees, credit unions are having little trouble attracting depositors these days.

How Paid-Off Student Loans Can Haunt You - WSJ - June 4, 2010
A major breach of student-loan data reveals weaknesses in the system. Here's how to protect yourself.

Market spinning but going nowhere - MSN Money - June 4, 2010
After their recent gyrations, there isn't a lot of motivation to either buy or short stocks. Plus: What's next for the tumbling euro?

10 stocks to watch - MSN Money - June 4, 2010
National Oilwell Varco, the largest US supplier of oil-field equipment, appears on an MSN Money list of recommended stocks. Here are StockScouter's top picks.

Putting the Squeeze on Investors - WSJ - June 4, 2010
Middle-class American investors may desert the capital markets based on their lousy returns alone. But the exodus could get even bigger if more financial firms don't start giving investors a fairer shake.

Juicing Your Life Insurance With Stocks - WSJ - June 4, 2010
This year's hottest life-insurance product is well-suited to an era of sudden "flash crashes": It appeals to those eager to capture stock-market gains while avoiding undue risk. But does it promise too much?

Do credit cards hurt the economy? - MSN Finance - June 4, 2010
Credit cards could be costing you money even if you don't have one. And here's why many retailers may wish shoppers would leave their cards at home.

5 secrets of FICO credit scores - MSN Finance - June 4, 2010
Payment history and total debt are important parts of the mystery mix -- but not the only factors.

CFOs on the Move: Week Ending June 4 - CFO - June 4, 2010
Glam Media, DocuSign, Ocean Power Technologies, Brand Neue, Baxter International, Contango Oil & Gas, Constant Contact, BioMed Realty Trust, IEC Electronics, HCC Insurance Holdings.

To Cut Working Capital, Try Bonuses - CFO - June 3, 2010
Pay incentives for hitting working capital targets proved effective during the recession, although companies are already starting to scale them back.

Removing Unsightly Tax Credit Buildup - CFO - June 3, 2010
The tax extenders bill in Congress will enable companies to use accumulated minimum tax credits.

How payday loans became big business - MSN Finance - June 3, 2010
Working-class people lined up to pay big bucks for advances on their checks, and it was all legal. But times are changing.

AccountingWEB Exclusive: Former FDIC Chief says FASB proposal is "irresponsible" - Accounting Web - June 3, 2010
William Isaac, former chairman of the FDIC and chairman of consulting firm LECG's global financial services unit, expects banks to react very negatively to the Financial Accounting Standards Board's (FASB) recent proposalto add loans to the list of financial instruments that banks are required to report at market value.read more

Big Oil's headache is getting worse - MSN Money - June 3, 2010
As the Gulf spill grows, public anger is starting to convince politicians that it could pay to vote against the oil industry and in favor of a new national energy policy.

Chronic joblessness cuts deep - MSN Finance - June 3, 2010
The Great Recession has wiped out jobs for millions of Americans, and many now face permanent unemployment. Hardest hit are older white men with less education.

Can BP survive Gulf disaster? - MSN Money - June 3, 2010
The British oil giant is worth billions of dollars less on the open market than it was when the Deepwater Horizon rig exploded -- and it faces billions more in liabilities.

AT&T Signals Hope for Telecom - WSJ - June 3, 2010
If changes to AT&T's data plans mark an opening salvo for the industry as a whole, there's reason to be bullish on telecom shares, writes Brett Arends.

Passing CPA exam in 2010 becomes top priority as exam changes loom - Accounting Web - June 3, 2010
The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) will be rolling out a new Uniform CPA Examination in January 2011, sending many candidates racing to pass the CPA exam as soon as possible. Industry experts concur with this strategy.read more

Broke states and broken promises - Accounting Web - June 3, 2010
By Dean Heyl & Robert Kerrread more

U.S. CPAs gaining in IFRS awareness - Accounting Web - June 3, 2010
U.S. Certified Public Accountants are gaining awareness about International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). Furthermore, CPAs increasingly foresee a need to gain advanced or expert knowledge as the U.S. moves toward global accounting standards over the next three to five years, according to a recent survey conducted by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA).read more

Rent vs. Buy - WSJ - June 3, 2010
People want to buy when prices are up, and avoid owning when they've collapsed. Logically it makes no sense, writes Brett Arends. Research out Thursday adds some new data.

Foreclosure Types and Process - About.com. - June 3, 2010
Describes the types of foreclosures and the process of foreclosure for a business.

Employee Benefit Expenses - About.com. - June 3, 2010
Here is a brief discussion of employee benefit expenses you can deduct.

Local Market Research - About.com. - June 3, 2010
If you are selling to a local market, you need to do some market research. Here are some things you need to know about this market.

What to Do If You're Stranded When Traveling - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 3, 2010
Follow these three tips if your flight is canceled or delayed and you're stuck far away from home.

Stocks That Will Get a Kick From the World Cup - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 3, 2010
The 2010 soccer championship should help shares of these four companies score some points.

Obama's Katrina? Try Carter's Iran - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 3, 2010
Obama aides ought to be looking at 1979, not 2005, for lessons.

An Aggressive Approach to Overcoming Market Mayhem - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 3, 2010
Until Europe fixes its "Club Med" debt problems, expect continued volatility in stocks worldwide. A star fund manager reveals alternative plays for proactive investors who see an eventual end to the current crisis.

Hotels and Airlines Woo Business Travelers - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 3, 2010
And looser travel policies will let employees take advantage as the economy improves.

Getting Health Insurance on Your Own - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 3, 2010
You have some special options if your COBRA coverage is ending and you have preexisting conditions that make it difficult for you to get health insurance.

Ex-Diebold CFOs Charged with Fraud - CFO - June 2, 2010
Three former finance executives of ATM maker Diebold are charged with accounting fraud by the SEC.

Recovery Grinding to Halt, Credit Index Suggests - CFO - June 2, 2010
Customers display cash-flow problems, triggering a dip in a key credit indicator for the first time in over a year.

FASB Exposure Draft Alarms Bank CFOs - CFO - June 2, 2010
Proposed revisions to accounting for financial instruments make no sense for originate-and-hold institutions, bankers say.

Scams peddle fake health coverage - MSN Finance - June 2, 2010
With unemployment high and complicated health care changes under way, scammers see big opportunities. Here's how to avoid getting hurt.

7 nasty credit myths that won't die - MSN Finance - June 2, 2010
If you want to avoid problems with lenders, landlords, insurers and others, it pays to know the difference between credit fact and credit fiction.

More whistleblowers needed, organizational transgression appears to be growing - Accounting Web - June 2, 2010
By Curtis C. Verschoorread more

Managers can become better leaders by becoming better listeners - Accounting Web - June 2, 2010
By Finola McManus read more

All About Business Bankruptcy - About.com. - June 2, 2010
Business bankruptcy can come in several different forms. A business can use Chapter 7 Liquidation, Chapter 11 Reorganization, or Chapter 13 Reorganization for Sole Proprietors. Learn about bankruptcy information for businesses.

Deduct Home Business Expenses - About.com. - June 2, 2010
This article describes how to file IRS Form 8829 for expenses for business use of your home.

Yelp Gives You the Inside Scoop - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 2, 2010
This site provides reviews of what's great in an area so you don't waste time and money going to places that aren't so great.

Obama Faces Challenges on Trip to Asia - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 2, 2010
Allies and trading partners want assurances that Obama is paying attention and willing to act.

Stronger Dollar Here to Stay - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 2, 2010
It’s the dollar by default -- a fact that will hurt the U.S. economy.

Regulators Warn of Oil-Spill Stock Scams - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 2, 2010
Watch for these telltale signs that an investment opportunity isn't legitimate.

Do Americans Pay Too Much in Taxes? - Kiplinger Personal Finance - June 2, 2010
The Tea Party says yes, but worldwide statistics suggest it's not that clear cut.

Working It Out - CFO - June 1, 2010
The recession triggered a meltdown in working capital performance, but also inspired numerous efforts to improve. Will they last?

Why Semantics Matter in Noncompete Pacts - CFO - June 1, 2010
The amortization schedule of a noncompete agreement is settled when a tax court dives deep into a rule definition.

A Big Fat Crisis Averted? - CFO - June 1, 2010
The ongoing European debt crisis creates new risks for CFOs.

Slate Expectations - CFO - June 1, 2010
Will the iPad and other tablet computers redefine mobile computing?

Ratings Disaster - CFO - June 1, 2010
Congress takes another stab at reforming the credit-rating agencies, whose AAA seal of approval helped fuel the subprime crisis. But will any change truly make a difference?

From Adversity, Better Budgets - CFO - June 1, 2010
Tempted to abandon budgeting altogether, companies have instead taken it to a new level.

Something Wicked This Way Comes - CFO - June 1, 2010
Fraudsters are preying on corporate coffers and catching the crooks will take more than accounting controls.

Breezing Through Bankruptcy - CFO - June 1, 2010
Companies filing for Chapter 11 protection are exiting sooner than ever, but is faster always better?

10 best funds for the long haul - MSN Money - June 1, 2010
U.S. News &World Report looked into 10-year records and kept digging to find the top-performing mutual funds for long-term investors. These are the best of the best.

Why you'll need less for retirement - MSN Finance - June 1, 2010
Some experts understand that when you're paying for diapers and day care, it's nearly impossible to save enough for retirement. But it may not be too late to catch up.

What the US can learn from GM - MSN Money - June 1, 2010
A year ago, GM was on the verge of obsolescence for business practices that have much in common with the way the federal government operates.

China's Ponzi-like banking policy - MSN Money - June 1, 2010
Hoping to lure investors into a massive bank IPO and other financial stocks, China is pouring cash into its banks. That could mean big profits -- at first.

BP Disaster: What Investors Need to Know - WSJ - June 1, 2010
It's hardly a surprise that BP stock plunged again. But panicking never helped anybody, investors included. Here are the numbers that investors need to know.

6 ways to get more Social Security - MSN Finance - June 1, 2010
Marriages -- even former ones -- can have significant financial advantages. Here's a look at how having said "I do" can win you more in retirement benefits.

Tips for choosing the right document management supplier - Accounting Web - June 1, 2010
Many organizations are turning to electronic document management (EDM) systems to gain a competitive advantage. Document management enables organizations to electronically store, retrieve, manage, deliver, and authorize business documents. It also enables the automated capture and verification of purchase invoice data, reducing manual data entry.read more

Survey: CFO’s most concerned with rising health care costs - Accounting Web - June 1, 2010
Financial executives have many issues on their minds, but topping the list are curbing rising health care costs and keeping other expenses in check, according to a recent survey from Robert Half Management Resources. read more

Accounting plays role in Apple’s overtaking of Microsoft - Accounting Web - June 1, 2010
With the one-two-three punch in recent years of the iPod/iTunes, iPhone, and the iPad, Apple has impressed consumers and investors, and has overtaken Microsoft as the technology industry’s top player by market capitalization.read more

Net Operating Loss Carryback 2 - About.com. - June 1, 2010
Net Operating Loss Carryback provisions for 2008 and 2009

SBA Loan Programs - About.com. - June 1, 2010
Lists various Small Business Administration loan programs

The Virtual CFO: Using payments/banking technology to increase value - Accounting Web - June 1, 2010
By Deborah Matzread more

Investors Caught With Stars in Their Eyes - WSJ - May 31, 2010
Many investors make decisions when allocating money to mutual funds by looking at the Morningstar ratings, but studies have shown the star system has no predictive value. Morningstar defends the stars' value.

Secretary of State Websites - About.com. - May 31, 2010
Secretary of State websites

Taxes Paid by Businesses - About.com. - May 31, 2010
Here is a list of all the taxes paid by a business

Employee Paid Travel Time - About.com. - May 30, 2010
When employee travel is paid and when it is not.

Equity Interest - About.com. - May 30, 2010
Definition of equity interest.

Verify Rentals for Summer - WSJ - May 29, 2010
Vacation rentals can be a way to save money on your summer getaway. Just be sure to do some due diligence.

Tax-Credit Deadline Looms for House Buyers - WSJ - May 29, 2010
The next few weeks are crucial for home buyers who need to close on a house by June 30 to claim the federal home-buyer tax credit. A hiccup could cost a buyer thousands of dollars.

EMC Can Make Data Storage Shine - WSJ - May 29, 2010
EMC, the global leader in data storage and information security, has seen its shares rally more than 50% in the past year, and additional gains could be in store.

Finding Opportunities in the Chaos - WSJ - May 29, 2010
The past two weeks have seen stock markets crushed, but for long-term investors, sharp selloffs can often present opportunities.

How to Beat Bank Fees - WSJ - May 29, 2010
On July 1, new federal rules will require banks to ask customers to opt in for overdraft coverage. Here are five tips for those who want to retain their overdraft protection without the cost.

Tax Liabilities for Selling a Home - WSJ - May 29, 2010
Tom Herman answers a reader's question about tax liabilities for selling a second home.

Covered on Vacation? - WSJ - May 29, 2010
Many insurance plans provide some coverage for emergency situations within the U.S., but some may limit coverage or not cover you when you're traveling abroad.

May's Big Selloff Could Be the Beginning - WSJ - May 29, 2010
Stock-market predictions need to be taken with salt, but there are reasons to suspect that the sudden plunges of the past few weeks may be omens of what's to come.

What is a Non-compete? - About.com. - May 29, 2010
Many partnerships, business sales, and employment contracts include non-compete agreement. Here are the elements of these agreements

Shrink Your Cable Bill - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 29, 2010
A new tool helps you compare the costs of television services so you can find the best deal.

Obama Drilling Ban Mostly for Show - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 29, 2010
The president has little leeway as he struggles with the oil spill and the public backlash.

New Rules for ETF Investors - WSJ - May 28, 2010
The May 6 Flash Crash revealed serious flaws in exchange-traded funds. Here's what you need to know to make your portfolio safer and stronger.

Lessons From the 'Flash Crash' of 1962 - WSJ - May 28, 2010
The crash of 1962 is a reminder that markets always have been messy and that investors' morale always has been fragile.

New Tax Hits Some Investors, Spares Others - WSJ - May 28, 2010
The House passed a bill that will raise taxes on "carried interest,"or the income that managers of investment partnerships receive from selling assets. Here's how it could affect investors.

How to Invest in Movies - WSJ - May 28, 2010
Investors with a smart and systematic approach can reduce their risks and improve their chances of generating a better return—or any return at all.

Oil Spill Spawns Stock Scams - WSJ - May 28, 2010
Securities regulators are warning investors to avoid "pump and dump"stock scams linked to the ongoing BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.

Euro Pain Hits Money-Market Funds - WSJ - May 28, 2010
The European debt crisis has rippled into one of the last redoubts of safety for U.S. investors: money-market funds. Here's how to protect yourself.

What to do when COBRA runs out - MSN Finance - May 28, 2010
If your coverage has run out and you still haven't found a job that provides health benefits, here are 5 avenues to explore to stay insured.

50 stocks to buy in June - MSN Money - May 28, 2010
StockScouter, MSN Money's stock-picking tool, can help investors find companies capable of outperforming the broader market in the weeks ahead.

Waking up to the golden rule - MSN Money - May 28, 2010
There are signs that investors are realizing the real value of gold -- and that gold stocks are like owning a piece of the moneymaking machine.

Girl drivers gone wild - MSN Finance - May 28, 2010
Long considered more responsible than boys behind the wheel, a growing number of girls admit speeding and aggressive driving. And their insurance rates are rising.

CFOs on the Move: Week Ending May 28 - CFO - May 28, 2010
KB Home, Qliance Medical Management, Avery Dennison, Gigamon, Crane, Frozen Food Express Industries, Granite Construction, Hatteras Networks, Healthcare Trust of America.

Lesson from the Downturn: Cut Inventory, Not People - CFO - May 28, 2010
Cutting costs via working capital improvements can be as effective as layoffs, says a new survey.

What Your Board Is Worried About - CFO - May 28, 2010
CFOs aren't the only ones with a lot on their minds. A new study looks at board members' top concerns and their impressions of their management teams.

Highway Bill to Spur Land Use Changes - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 28, 2010
Uncle Sam’s new focus: More mixed-use developments, fewer long commutes.

The Vanguard Dog That Just Won’t Die - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 28, 2010
For the past decade, Vanguard U.S. Growth has puttered along with poor to mediocre performance. But Vanguard stands by the fund.

European Stocks on Sale - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 28, 2010
Euro contagion fears are way overblown, says a veteran, top-performing fund manager, who’s on an old-world buying spree. Is he right?

Moving My Mom in With Me - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 28, 2010
Here are the challenges I'm facing as I prepare to move a parent with dementia into my house.

Three Reasons for Optimism on Housing - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 28, 2010
Don’t get buffeted by changing winds. The housing recovery is real.

10 Best Cities for the Next Decade - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 28, 2010
They're prosperous, innovative, and they'll generate plenty of jobs, too.

Investors, Ride Out This Market's Waves - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 28, 2010
Brace for more short-term pain en route to long-term gains, says one of Kiplinger's favorite gurus in an exclusive interview.

A Catch-Up Guide to Retirement - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 28, 2010
Even if you got a late start, you can still build a sizable nest egg during your final decade of work.

A $15 million insurance mystery - MSN Finance - May 27, 2010
After Suzy Tomlinson, 74, died, her family learned that her 36-year-old companion, the last person to see her alive, stood to benefit from her death.     

Leases Headed for the Balance Sheet - CFO - May 27, 2010
The upcoming joint FASB/IASB exposure draft on lease accounting will put an end to off-balance-sheet treatment for leases, while throwing in some new complications.

Easy pickings for dividend income - MSN Money - May 27, 2010
The recent market decline has uncovered some surprising finds. If yield is the name of the game (isn't it always?), the Jubak dividend-income portfolio is ready for an update.

Tips for improving a company blog - Accounting Web - May 27, 2010
By Chad Brubakerread more

Three artists sing the tax-trouble blues - Accounting Web - May 27, 2010
Just a couple of years ago Aretha Franklinwas hit with delinquent state and federal tax bills (a California lien in the amount of $14,798, and a federal lien for $175,260 dating back to 2006). Those tax debts were paid. About the same time, she almost lost her Michigan mansion overlooking the Detroit Golf Club to foreclosure.read more

12 fixes for Social Security - MSN Finance - May 27, 2010
A new report suggests steps to help sustain the program for generations. But the fixes require political courage.

Uniforms and Clothing - About.com. - May 27, 2010
Deducting costs for uniforms and clothing

Tax Sticklers, Not Schemers - CFO - May 26, 2010
A new survey finds that financial executives are more concerned with getting the right answer on tax issues than reducing the corporate tax bill.

Notes from a Job Search: Starting Up - CFO - May 26, 2010
A CFO on the job hunt offers first-hand advice from his own experience.

Time to be bold -- and buy into Europe - MSN Money - May 26, 2010
Don't let Greece's troubles or the falling euro scare you away. The fallout from this huge mess might be good for European stocks.

No one needs you, Class of 2010 - MSN Finance - May 26, 2010
College grads face daunting obstacles that threaten to make them part of the first generation to fare worse than the one that spawned it.

Why I Don't Trust Gold - WSJ - May 26, 2010
What do you call an investment scheme where current members' returns depend entirely on new money brought in by new members? A Ponzi scheme.

Employment tool designed for accountants: Intuit’s Accountant Work Exchange - Accounting Web - May 26, 2010
Accountants with specialized skills, who may be looking for additional work or a new job, and firms looking for highly qualified help, now can connect through Intuit’s employment tool, the Accountant Work Exchange(AWE).read more

Tax departments more concerned with getting it right - Accounting Web - May 26, 2010
An overwhelming majority of senior financial executives say their tax department’s top priority is not tax savings or their effective rate, but timely and accurate tax return and financial reporting, according to a national survey of chief financial officers and senior comptrollers.read more

Finally! Free credit scores on horizon - MSN Finance - May 26, 2010
One financial reform passed by the Senate would allow you to see your credit scores -- not just your reports -- if they were used against you.

Former Detroit Lion in trouble as “Farr” as eye can see - Accounting Web - May 26, 2010
Mike Farr once rode high as a member of the Detroit Lions. These days, he’s in hot water. Not only does he owe nearly $83,000 in state and federal taxes but, a few weeks ago, federal regulators put a lock on his assets after he was named in a government lawsuit alleging he benefited from fraudulent activities against public pension funds.read more

Accounting, finance professionals seek career growth - Accounting Web - May 26, 2010
Corporate governance regulations aimed at increasing fiscal transparency within public, private, and nonprofit organizations, and the growth in ultramodern fields like forensic and international accounting, finance professionals have been able to shed their “bean counter” image in place of a new prominent role as a business partner and even thrill-seeker.read more

Meet 5 homeowners who walked away - MSN Finance - May 26, 2010
As the housing crisis wears on, more homeowners are forced to consider handing their keys back to their lenders. Here's what happened to 5 who did just that.

Economic crisis could impact banking/finance industry’s recruiting efforts - Accounting Web - May 26, 2010
Just 24 percent of students who graduated from a college or university last year have been working in a role that requires a degree, according to the study, “The Emerging Talent Index.”read more

10 best cities for the next decade - MSN Money - May 26, 2010
Though slowed by the recession, these US cities have flourished by fostering innovations that put Americans to work and keep the nation ahead of the competition.

A Plan to Fix the Budget Process - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 26, 2010
The current process doesn't work. Here's a plan to fix it.

Businesses to Spend More on IT - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 26, 2010
New products and the need to replace old equipment spark an IT resurgence.

Why the Rand Paul Debate Is Healthy - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 26, 2010
Maybe -- just maybe -- Rand Paul's candidacy can spark the serious discussion this country needs.

Boost Your Credit Score in 2 Easy Steps - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 26, 2010
Once you learn your credit score and commit to improving it, you can make big gains with simple behaviors.

6 High-Priced Stocks Worth the Cost - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 26, 2010
Don’t confuse a stock’s price with its value. You could end up rejecting many smart plays in today’s tumultuous market.

Europe Crisis Spurs Gold-Coin Sales - WSJ - May 25, 2010
Sales of gold coins by the U.S. Mint have risen to their highest levels since December 2008. Coin dealers cite demand from investors unnerved by Europe's sovereign-debt problems and a sharp decline in stock markets.

When Disaster Is Your Job - CFO - May 25, 2010
At World Vision US, CFO Larry Probus helps steer humanitarian aid and disaster relief to millions of people around the world.

IT Changes Quickly, Perceptions of It Don't - CFO - May 25, 2010
Views of technology's value among IT purchase decision makers have improved only gradually since 2007.

Spill creates buying opportunities - MSN Money - May 25, 2010
The disaster in the Gulf has sent stocks of companies involved in offshore oil spinning down. But unless you think drilling is going to stop, it may be time to buy them.

Beware the European Index Trap - WSJ - May 25, 2010
Some European countries' stock markets are heavily dominated by a few big banks and other companies. Anyone just "buying the index"will find themselves really taking big bets on those.

Is Gold the Next Bubble? - WSJ - May 25, 2010
In the first part of a three-part series on gold—'The Gold, the Bad and the Ugly'—Brett Arends looks at how much gold could be worth if a real bubble materializes.

Ignore the Panic, Focus on Value - WSJ - May 25, 2010
Even in this rout, stock markets probably aren't cheap yet, but there are opportunities, writes Brett Arends. In particular, some closed-end funds are worth a look.

7 Questions You Must Ask Your Financial Adviser - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 25, 2010
Understanding your financial adviser’s motives, expertise and methods is crucial to managing your wealth.

Is a U.S. VAT in the Cards? - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 25, 2010
It’s more than a long shot. But lawmakers will tackle some other thorny tax issues before the year is out.

The Right Income Investments for Your Portfolio Now - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 25, 2010
For good yields, consider municipal bonds, energy pass-throughs and U.S. agency bonds.

Pay Attention to Your Bank's Overdraft Changes - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 25, 2010
Starting this summer, your debit-card transactions may be denied if you don't have enough money in your account.

Postal Rates Headed Higher -- Again - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 25, 2010
With payrolls in jeopardy, a desperate Postal Service seeks more revenue.

A Fund That Focuses on Financially Strong Companies - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 25, 2010
Buffalo Mid Cap's holdings have rock-solid balance sheets and many have no debt.

Health-Reform Costs Become Clearer - CFO - May 24, 2010
A few new rules and a flurry of surveys create a clearer picture of health-care costs in 2011.

A Costly Look at How Sausage Is Made - CFO - May 24, 2010
C&F Packing won its trade secret case against Pizza Hut last year, but found out the hard way that settlements related to trade-secret misappropriation are taxed as ordinary income.

Which are the worst states for tickets? - MSN Finance - May 24, 2010
As the traditional summer driving season approaches, a drivers'-rights group ranks the states on friendliness toward drivers. New Jersey? Fuhgeddaboudit.

Euro crisis is tip of the iceberg - MSN Money - May 24, 2010
What we see is scary enough, but the hidden part is something virtually every nation will have to navigate around during the next couple of decades.

The wacky world of college scholarships - MSN Finance - May 24, 2010
Need some help affording college? A special skill or interest -- or even a particular last name -- can put a big dent in a student's tuition.

How your home insurance can vanish - MSN Finance - May 24, 2010
Check your policy before you head to Europe for a month or leave your house empty for any other reason. Your home might not be insured while you're away. 

Thomson Reuters launches Accounting CS platform - Accounting Web - May 24, 2010
The Tax & Accounting business of Thomson Reuters this week announced the launch of its Accounting CS platform, which is designed to take a new approach to professional accounting software by combining write-up, live and after-the-fact payroll, trial balance, financial reporting, and client accounting into a single unified platform.read more

The “flash-crash" of May 6: What happened? - Accounting Web - May 24, 2010
If you tuned in to stock market news at about 2:47 p.m. EST on May 6, you might have been holding your breath, especially if you have a significant investment in the stock market. That was five minutes into what is now being called a flash-crash, and at that moment you might’ve heard announcers in panic mode as the Dow Jones Industrial Average tumbled 990 points.read more

A Fantasy Idea. Or Is It? - WSJ - May 23, 2010
Levi and Steve discuss taking a six-month sabbatical from life to take a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Factors to Consider - About.com. - May 23, 2010
How to select a business name

Business Budgeting Explained - About.com. - May 23, 2010
Purposes of a Business Budget

Business Name Registration - About.com. - May 23, 2010
How to register a business name, including

Selecting Your Business Name - About.com. - May 23, 2010
Select, Register, and Trademark a Business Name

Steps to Creating a Budget - About.com. - May 23, 2010
Budget - Business Start-up Budget

It's Looking a Lot Like a Correction - WSJ - May 22, 2010
Stock prices stabilized on Friday, but it felt like the selling ended more because of exhaustion than because of some return of optimism.

A Fantasy That Will Never Happen - WSJ - May 22, 2010
Levi and Steve discuss taking a six-month sabbatical from life to take a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Inflation's Toll on Annuity Payouts - WSJ - May 22, 2010
The guaranteed payouts on immediate annuities offer insurance against a shaky stock market, but retirees need to be sure their investments don't get whittled away by inflation.

Apartment Renting 101 - WSJ - May 22, 2010
For most college graduates, home has meant Mom and Dad's house or a dormitory. Here are a few things to consider when hunting for that first apartment.

Helping Your Kids Avoid Injury - WSJ - May 22, 2010
As summer approaches, so does the prime injury season for children. Here are some of the biggest safety risks, and what you can do to minimize them.

Personal-Finance Basics for the Class of 2010 - WSJ - May 22, 2010
Even if your career begins in the slow lane, a slew of new consumer laws and programs may help you get off to a good start on financial matters.

CDs That Let You Up Rate - WSJ - May 22, 2010
Opt for "bump up"or "rising rate"CDs, which typically give investors one shot to boost their original rate if interest rates for that product go up.

Have Week, Want Job - WSJ - May 22, 2010
Sean Aiken didn't know what he wanted to do when he graduated from college. So he decided to spend a year traveling around North America, trying out one job a week for 52 weeks.

One Legendary Investor Is Worried - WSJ - May 22, 2010
Seth Klarman explains why the financial markets are like a Hostess Twinkie—and why he favors investments others despise.

Financial Aid: How to Get More - WSJ - May 21, 2010
Many well-off families are too affluent to qualify for significant financial aid, but not wealthy enough to afford to pay out of pocket. But that doesn't mean they can't game the system to their advantage.

New SEC Finance Chief Will Stress Internal Controls - CFO - May 21, 2010
Named to run the Securities and Exchange Commission's Office of Financial Management, Kenneth Johnson feels that strong controls over financial reporting are key to effective fiscal management of the agency.

Why One Legendary Investor Is Worried - WSJ - May 21, 2010
Seth Klarman explains why the financial markets are like a Hostess Twinkie—and why he favors investments others despise.

When Prepaid Funeral Plans Are Wealth Killers - WSJ - May 21, 2010
Long pitched to people of lesser means, the controversial deals are going upmarket—and now may carry bigger risks.

What financial reform means for you - MSN Money - May 21, 2010
The White House wants a final bill by July 4 that curbs some of most egregious lending tactics and requires homebuyers to prove they can afford their mortgage payments.

Europe's dilemma: Print money or cut debt? - MSN Money - May 21, 2010
The euro wasn't built for this continuing battle to establish financial rules, pitting more-prudent countries against those requiring bailouts.

How to Get Out of Debt - WSJ - May 21, 2010
The best move is to try to negotiate with creditors directly. But if you have multiple creditors, nonprofit credit-counseling firms are one of the better options in the murky "debt resolution"world.

Is Art the Next Boom Investment? - WSJ - May 21, 2010
The market for major works is heating up, but small investors can get chiseled.

Playing the Plunging Euro - WSJ - May 21, 2010
The biggest U.S. multinationals are less vulnerable to currency threats—making their stocks more attractive.

Hire Your Kids, Get a Tax Break - WSJ - May 21, 2010
The HIRE Act, passed in March, gives breaks to employers hiring new workers—or rehiring old ones.

IRS gives details on small business health care tax credit - Accounting Web - May 21, 2010
The Internal Revenue Service recently issued guidance intended to make it easier for small businesses to determine whether they are eligible for the new health care tax credit under the Affordable Care Act and how large a credit they will receive.read more

How Much Should Workers Know? - CFO - May 21, 2010
A Department of Labor proposal to educate employees on their rights could open up companies' classification decisions to scrutiny by workers and the courts.

CFOs on the Move: Week Ending May 21 - CFO - May 21, 2010
Pink OTC Markets, Sara Lee, Masonite, IRIS International, Tara Minerals, MSCI, Altegrity, Gentiva Health Services.

Washington Braces for Primaries - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 21, 2010
Voters are mad as hell about a whole lot of things, and we'll see it on Tuesday.

How to Find Quality Flights - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 21, 2010
A new Web site gives air travelers a lot more information than just the price of a ticket.

Voters Sound Antiestablishment Chord - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 21, 2010
Specter defeat, big Tea Party win and close primary results all point to a turbulent autumn.

Take Advantage of the Extended COBRA Subsidy - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 21, 2010
The government will continue a little longer to help people who've lost jobs pay for health coverage.

Two New Medigap Plans to Consider - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 21, 2010
These Medicare-supplement policies add some cost-sharing in return for lower premiums.

April's Price Drop Doesn't Equal Deflation - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 21, 2010
We see modest inflation this year — and next — as the economy recovers.

Solar Power to the People - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 21, 2010
Worries about safety and neighborhood aesthetics will spawn new rules but won’t stop solar installations.

Break Out of the Mold - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 21, 2010
A psychological quirk called framing can cause us to make poor decisions -- but you can break the mold.

Smart Moves for Life's Big Events: Easing Into Retirement - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 21, 2010
Before you ditch the daily grind for good, do a complete benefits checkup.

Americans' Savings Down, Spending Up - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 21, 2010
They said you'd changed, embraced a "New Frugality." But it turns out you're back at the mall.

10 rules for working at home - MSN Finance - May 21, 2010
A home office has many benefits, but it can have even more distractions. Before you stray from your task to see who's on 'Oprah,' set some parameters.

Digital Divide - CFO - May 20, 2010
Companies innovating with "pull" technologies are on the edge of a broad shift in business design, says a co-author of a new book, The Power of Pull.

Drilling for Answers - CFO - May 20, 2010
What can the BP oil spill disaster teach finance executives about risk?

Skip the funds, buy the fund company? - MSN Money - May 20, 2010
While you've fretted about which mutual funds to buy for your 401k, the companies managing those funds have made piles of money. Should you buy their stocks instead?

Europe's pain could be your gain - MSN Money - May 20, 2010
The euro crisis is rattling markets and economies around the world. But in the US, it means cheaper loans, lower gas prices and good news for investors.

Middle market investment banking offers opportunity for trained valuators, accountants - Accounting Web - May 20, 2010
By Dennis Robertsread more

Basement space becomes workout facility at Williams, Horning firm - Accounting Web - May 20, 2010
Rather than getting their employees to go to the gym, Williams, Horning & Co., LLC, in Alpharetta, Georgia, brought the gym to the office. read more

Tips for working with a younger boss - Accounting Web - May 20, 2010
By Phyllis Weiss Haserotread more

Tough times for auto thieves - MSN Finance - May 20, 2010
Car thefts have fallen nearly 20% in 2 years because of new technology, aggressive cops and aging crooks, among other reasons. One result: Cheaper insurance.

Ryan becomes sponsor of North Texas Super Bowl XLV Host Committee - Accounting Web - May 20, 2010
Ryan, a Dallas-based tax services firm, recently announced that the firm has joined an exclusive group of North Texas Super Bowl XLV Host Committee $1 million founding sponsors dedicated to making the first ever NFL Super Bowl in North Texas a success.read more

Life Insurers: Letting the Market Speak - CFO - May 19, 2010
Chastened by the recession's effect on their companies' capital positions, life insurance CFOs are paying more attention to economic factors in managing risk.

What Makes a CEO Successful? - CFO - May 19, 2010
A new analysis turns up some surprising negatives.

What 'Dr. Copper' says about the economy - MSN Money - May 19, 2010
Most eyes are on gold right now, but copper gives us a better read on the economy and a better way to play the recovery.

Why you'll outlast your money - MSN Finance - May 19, 2010
The statistics on retirement savings aren't pretty. But a simple change -- made annually -- can make a huge difference.

10 things your hospital won't tell you - MSN Finance - May 19, 2010
A hospital is supposed to make you better, but you may not feel too well after reading this. Some words of advice: Be your own health care advocate.

Strippers call for voluntary “pole tax” to help education - Accounting Web - May 19, 2010
Long Island exotic dancers rallied last week in favor of a voluntary, $5 “pole tax” that would go toward education.read more

One-third of U.S. workforce feels need to always stay connected - Accounting Web - May 19, 2010
The recent economic downturn has American workers stressed, overworked, and anxious, but many are turning to technology to help them cope. Workers are using technology to stay connected (sometimes even secretly), work harder, and maintain job security to survive the economic recovery, according to a survey by InterCall, a conferencing and collaboration services provider.read more

Gainsharing or Profit Sharing? Choose the Right Tool for Your Organization - Part 2 - Site Headlines - May 19, 2010
Article one of this two part series focused on Profit Sharing and how it is often confused with Gainsharing.  The history and purpose of  Profit Sharing was explored as well as the delivery of Profit Sharing in the form of either compensation or as a benefit.  The appropriate organization climate and culture for Profit Sharing was also discussed.  The focus of article 2 is Gainsharing, what it is, how it evolved, and how it might best serve and organization.

Statement from IRS commissioner regarding small charity filing deadline - Accounting Web - May 19, 2010
IRS Commissioner Doug Shulman has released the following statement regarding the confusion over the filing deadline for small charities:Now that the May 17 filing deadline has passed, it appears many small tax-exempt organizations have not filed the required information return in time. These organizations are vital to communities across the United States, and I understand their concerns about possibly losing their tax-exempt status.read more

HIRE Act: Payroll tax exemption claim form for hiring new workers available - Accounting Web - May 19, 2010
The Internal Revenue Service this week has issued the newly revised payroll tax form that most eligible employers can use to claim the special payroll tax exemption that applies to many new workers hired during 2010.read more

Why Investing Is Like Chess - WSJ - May 19, 2010
The deluge of government intervention has thrown a new level of complexity into the system. Anyone rushing to buy more shares or high-yield bonds should think twice, argues Baupost's Seth Klarman.

City and County Ordinances - About.com. - May 19, 2010
If you need to know about zoning, local option taxes, and other city/town/county information, here is the place to look.

Limited Liability Partnership - About.com. - May 19, 2010
Definition of a limited liability partnership

71 Ways to Cut Your 2010 Tax Bill - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 19, 2010
Filing your tax return is a once-a-year event but trimming your tax bill requires year-round attention.

Car Sales Revving Up - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 19, 2010
Easier credit will help unleash some pent-up demand. And though electric cars won’t be a big part of the sales picture, their day is coming.

7 Ways to Protect Your Stock-Market Gains - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 19, 2010
From increasing your cash holdings to buying options, we show you how to guard against a correction -- or worse.

New Leader May Bring Unity to Labor - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 19, 2010
A unified front will make labor a stronger force in contract negotiations.

Credit 101 for College Grads - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 19, 2010
Follow these three tips for establishing credit when you enter the real world.

Flash Crash: No Harm For Normal Investors - WSJ - May 18, 2010
James Stewart of SmartMoney.com says that for the overwhelming number of investors, the "flash crash"did no lasting harm.

U.S. ranks sixth among tax-friendly countries - Accounting Web - May 18, 2010
The United Kingdom and the United States rank fifth and sixth, respectively, among tax-friendly countries, according to KPMG’s recently released Competitive Alternatives 2010, Special Report: Focus on Tax.read more

Loan Market Buzzing Again - CFO - May 18, 2010
The loan market is reviving, but there are curbs on its growth.

A One-Two Accounting Punch? - CFO - May 18, 2010
Next year U.S. public companies will find out if they have to adopt international accounting standards – just as they are implementing a host of new FASB rules.

The complete company rankings - MSN Money - May 18, 2010
Here's a quick look at the methodology and the full results of the MSN Money-Zogby International customer-service survey for 2010.

Where are past inductees now? - MSN Money - May 18, 2010
Qwest escaped from the Hall of Shame, but records suggest rehabilitating a reputation isn't easy. And what happened to last year's customer-service leader?

4 reasons to buy bank stocks now - MSN Money - May 18, 2010
The idea may seem unpleasant given their involvement in the mortgage crisis, but this could be a chance to put your disgust to good use while banks' share prices are down.

The Customer Service Hall of Shame - MSN Money - May 18, 2010
MSN Money's fourth annual survey reveals which companies have scored points during the recession -- and which have made their customers' lives more difficult.

Why women will run the economy - MSN Finance - May 18, 2010
Increasingly, women are earning more graduate degrees than men (which should help close that persistent pay gap). So, let's take that can-do spirit to retirement planning.

Happy customers, happy investors? - MSN Money - May 18, 2010
Consumer satisfaction doesn't get a lot of attention from investors, but perhaps it should. A growing body of evidence suggests service affects the bottom line.

Taxman to seller of luxury watches: Time’s up! - Accounting Web - May 18, 2010
Christopher Wardle, 41, sells luxury timepieces costing more than $8,000 at his Bozeman Watch Company. But as far as the Internal Revenue Service is concerned…he’s run out of time.read more

Average Joe or star athlete: The housing slump played no favorites - Accounting Web - May 18, 2010
Rick Mahorn, former Detroit Piston and member of the 1989 NBA championship team, has hit hard times. In the last year Mahorn, 51, and his wife lost their home in Rochester Hills, Michigan, and filed Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Plus, they owe the Internal Revenue Service more than $200,000.read more

6 reasons retirements are being delayed - MSN Finance - May 18, 2010
More Americans say they intend to keep working after age 65. For many, the reasons are financial. But others seek fulfillment in work.

Intuit to acquire health care communications company - Accounting Web - May 18, 2010
Intuit Inc. has signed a definitive agreement to acquire privately held Medfusion, a Cary, N.C.-based patient-to-provider communications company. The transaction is expected to close during the fourth quarter of Intuit's fiscal year 2010, which ends July 31, and is subject to customary closing conditions.read more

ACT! is teamed with QuickBooks, courtesy of dbLinkUp - Accounting Web - May 18, 2010
ACT! users are now able to see a complete real-time view of customers' accounting information to which they are granted access from QuickBooks, including customer and vendor transactions. With multiple user levels of security to allow either Read Only or Updating of data, companies stay in control of their sensitive data while allowing more flexibility for their workforce.read more

Nanotech Firms Fear New EPA Regs - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 18, 2010
An open-ended rule-making authority for the feds sounds like too much to bear for some outfits.

Landscaping Do's and Don'ts - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 18, 2010
Making your lawn look good can be expensive. Follow these tips to get the most bang for your buck and to avoid costly mistakes.

Tax Rules for Roth Conversions - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 18, 2010
If one spouse spreads the tax bill on a Roth conversion over three years, the other spouse isn't required to also do so. Plus, donating an IRA to charity.

71 Ways to Save on Taxes Now - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 18, 2010
Don't wait until you file your return to find ways to lower your tax bill. These moves will help you save throughout the year.

Save Money by Biking to Work - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 18, 2010
You can cut costs by leaving the car at home. But be sure that your bicycle is adequately insured.

Keeping Adult Children Insured - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 18, 2010
Here's what you need to know about how the health-care reform law benefits families that want to keep their grown kids on their health policies.

How to Beat This Market - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 18, 2010
A look at how one of the savviest money managers of our time plans to produce high returns -- with low risk.

Making the Most of Shuttle's Farewell - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 18, 2010
Is the space agency overlooking a final, creative option?

Great Rates in a Low-Yield World - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 18, 2010
You're earning zilch on your savings. No sweat. We offer 18 investments that pay 5% or more.

Greek Crisis Only Tip of the Debt Iceberg - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 18, 2010
In fact, most of the industrialized world is carrying way too much debt.

The Quest for Health Insurance - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 18, 2010
Finding coverage when you're too young for Medicare can seem like an impossible dream.

The Upside to a Downstairs Merger - CFO - May 17, 2010
Can Retail Ventures Inc., the parent of shoe retailer DSW, be eliminated in a tax-efficient way?

5 ETFs that pay you dividends - MSN Money - May 17, 2010
Funds that pay you for owning them have an undeniable appeal. Here's how to pick an ETF with a decent dividend as well as some safeguards against too much risk.

China's dangerous balancing act - MSN Money - May 17, 2010
The country's 3-pronged approach to its economy will be difficult to pull off. As bulls and bears await the outcome, what should investors do?

Refinancing? You may need new tactic - MSN Finance - May 17, 2010
The cash-out mortgage refinance has fallen out of fashion. Thanks to rock-bottom interest rates, the cash-in refinance is now in vogue.

Services added to QuickBooks ProAdvisor Program - Accounting Web - May 17, 2010
New services have been added to the Intuit QuickBooks ProAdvisor Program designed to make it faster and easier for certified and non-certified ProAdvisors to benefit from the program by gaining more access to prospective clients online.read more

Dollar Gains as Investors Seek Safety - WSJ - May 15, 2010
Global investors are clambering into the dollar for safety, underscoring how this particular phase of the crisis might prove beneficial to U.S. investors.

Reward Programs Are Becoming Less Rewarding - WSJ - May 15, 2010
Changes to credit-card reward programs are creating new obstacles for card holders looking to cash in their rewards.

Stock Owners: Denny's Is No Grand Slam - WSJ - May 15, 2010
Denny's, the family restaurant chain known for its Grand Slam breakfast, is having a most unfamily-like proxy war.

Get Healthy or Else… - WSJ - May 15, 2010
Companies are getting serious about improving the health of their employees—and they're now using both carrots and sticks to get results.

Credit Scores Aren't Free - WSJ - May 15, 2010
In early April, the FTC cracked down on websites that offered people "free"credit reports and scores that were tied to the purchase of credit-monitoring services.

Prep for Trade Shows - WSJ - May 15, 2010
Phil Gerbyshak views his attendance at the SOBCon social-media conference as a key step in igniting his new career as the founder of a consulting business.

Read Fine Print on Cheap Tickets - WSJ - May 15, 2010
Doing the math reveals that some cut-rate airfares may actually end up costing you more than if you planned ahead and purchased a regular airfare.

Is Your Favorite Charity Spying on You? - WSJ - May 15, 2010
When your favorite nonprofit isn't busy saving the whales, chances are it's making a serious effort to know you better -- using increasingly sophisticated technology.

A Value Fund With Values - Barron's - May 15, 2010
The Appleseed Fund gains high marks and finds rich rewards through socially responsible investing. Video: Pick of the Crop

Health Reform Tax Credit - About.com. - May 15, 2010
How a small business can qualify for a small business health care tax credit.

Employee or Contractor? - About.com. - May 15, 2010
This article describes the difference between an employee and an independent contractor, how the IRS makes its decisions on employment status, and about the three factors in employment/contractor designations.

5 Stocks to Consider Selling Now - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 15, 2010
With fear, uncertainty and doubt running high, this is an especially good time to cull the turkeys from your investment portfolio.

Six Travel Scams to Avoid - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 15, 2010
All of these deals are too good to be true.

A Stronger Euro Zone Ahead - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 15, 2010
Both economically and morally, bailouts are bad news. But they have their place.

Ask Encore: Picking Out Tax Treatments - WSJ - May 14, 2010
Karen Damato discusses Roth IRA strategies for spouses, maximizing Social Security, and fund comparisons.

Biggest Frauds Against People Near Retirement - WSJ - May 14, 2010
Scam artists increasingly are targeting people trying to repair their nest eggs during this period of unstability and low returns. Here's what to watch for.

Second Acts: People Taking New Paths - WSJ - May 14, 2010
Second Acts looks at an investment banker turned cattle rancher, a woman who helps high-school dropouts learn skills and contribute to their community, and more.

Sussex County's Coastal Charms - WSJ - May 14, 2010
Beaches, waterways and outdoor recreation have helped make Sussex County, Del., one of the most popular retirement destinations in the Northeast.

Exploiting the Next 'Flash Crash' - WSJ - May 14, 2010
Strategies from a Roth IRA conversion to exercising stock options can help you take advantage of volatility.

Ten Great Trips - WSJ - May 14, 2010
As the economy shows signs of life, more people are returning to the road. From biking in Norway to going behind the scenes at a film festival, we found 10 great trips that, ideally, you've never heard of.

How to Get Beer Across the Border - CFO - May 14, 2010
The CFO of Heineken USA recently faced a tough challenge: getting enough Dos Equis stocked in time for Cinco de Mayo.

In Europe, recklessness wins again - MSN Money - May 14, 2010
What sort of example is bailed-out Greece setting for the Continent? A strapped Ireland looks on, wondering whether it would be better if every country defaulted.

What Happened to Your Money - WSJ - May 14, 2010
The Dow Jones Industrials regained all the ground they lost in the previous week's rout by Wednesday's close; home-mortgage rates fell to 4.93%; and retail sales rose in April by 0.4%.

When 'Stop Loss' Trades Backfire - WSJ - May 14, 2010
Last week's "flash crash"gave investors a crash course in the perils of stop-loss orders.

Tax Bomb Threatens Funds - WSJ - May 14, 2010
A market rally, exotic new fund strategies and potential tax law changes could add up to major tax pain for fund investors.

Using a 'Collar' on Gold - WSJ - May 14, 2010
Done right, a "collar"trade on gold can be executed at little or no cost, and possibly even generate some income.

The Hidden Dangers in IRAs - WSJ - May 14, 2010
A growing number of well-off professionals and their families have been ensnared in frauds that prey upon self-directed individual retirement accounts.

Holding Brokers to a Higher Standard - WSJ - May 14, 2010
Congress is debating whether to make financial advisers hew to a "fiduciary"standard that will force them to put clients' interests first.

Are consumers winning credit card war? - MSN Finance - May 14, 2010
US cardholders appear to be taking advantage of provisions in the new Credit CARD Act, with more paying above their monthly minimums.

Mortgage rates return to 2010 low - MSN Finance - May 14, 2010
The low rates, combined with weakened housing prices, provide a great opportunity for homebuyers. Yet many markets are still far from a turnaround.

Can you be retired and not know it? - MSN Finance - May 14, 2010
If you lose your job in your 50s, you may have a tough time finding a new one -- and that's a game changer if you had planned to work (and save) for a few more years.

IFRS Risk: Not What You Think - CFO - May 14, 2010
The switch from U.S. generally accepted accounting principles to international accounting standards is a hot topic. But CFOs of U.S. companies are wasting time and money managing imaginary risks while completely ignoring real ones.

CFOs on the Move: Week Ending May 14 - CFO - May 14, 2010
McAfee, Pace University, TechTarget, Bemis, Gilt Groupe, Immersion, SkinMedica, Hercules Offshore, cMoney, Emptoris.

National Association of Enrolled Agents installs new board members - Accounting Web - May 14, 2010
The National Association of Enrolled Agents (NAEA), the organization that represents over 46,000 federally-licensed tax practitioners, has announced the installation of 14 members to its board of directors. The new members are: read more

Steps to Starting a Business - About.com. - May 14, 2010
Start a Business by Following These Steps

The Tax Man Cracks Down - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 14, 2010
Uncle Sam is desperate for cash and taking an especially close look at the biggest fish.

Glossary: Key Financial-Aid Terms to Know and Understand - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 14, 2010
Before you sign on the dotted line, know what these financial-aid terms mean.

The Top College Savings Plans - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 14, 2010
Use our state-by-state guide to 529 plans to choose the right one for your student.

China Restricting Entry by U.S. Firms - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 14, 2010
Foreign companies are finding the atmosphere in China chilly -- and it’s only going to get worse.

A Sign of Improvement for High-End Home Sales - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 14, 2010
A successful deal involving mortgages that aren’t federally guaranteed signals a healing housing market.

A Case for Big Government? - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 14, 2010
I know, I know. The overwhelming majority of Americans want small government, but hear me out.

A Fund for the Risk Averse - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 14, 2010
T. Rowe Price Capital Appreciation typically lags in bull markets, but it excels in bear markets.

How to Beat the Bond Market - WSJ - May 13, 2010
Most bond funds invest based on market value. Research Affiliates' Rob Arnott says he's found a valuation-indifferent strategy that could give investors a significant edge.

Forecast Perpetually Sunny, for Analysts - CFO - May 13, 2010
A recent McKinsey study finds that industry changes have done little to dampen analysts' heightened earnings expectations.

Gulf oil spill's winners and losers - MSN Money - May 13, 2010
Blame politics: The devastation from the Deepwater Horizon well makes a blanket US energy policy even less likely.

A Great Bet in Biotech - Barron's - May 13, 2010
Despite its lofty valuation, shares of Celgene still have room to run.

Reverse mortgages: Now a better deal - MSN Finance - May 13, 2010
Lower fees and greater flexibility are attracting homeowners who had initially rejected the loans because of high closing costs.

Crude-Oil Demand Rebound to Boost Sector - Barron's - May 13, 2010
Caris &Co. raised views on several names and upgraded Marathon Oil.

Spouse's bad credit creates mortgage mess - MSN Finance - May 13, 2010
Underwriting guidelines prevent lenders from making a 'real-life review' of a couple's creditworthiness. Only the lower of the two credit scores determines mortgage rates. 

Diagnose tax rules in new health care law - Accounting Web - May 13, 2010
The new health care law finalized March 25 – the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act – includes sweeping changes for both employers and individuals.read more

Is it time to refinance your mortgage? - MSN Finance - May 13, 2010
Mortgage applications, which include both purchase and refinance loans, are on the rise as borrowers seek to lock in rates near historical lows.

Thomson Reuters releases video-on-demand platform - Accounting Web - May 13, 2010
A one-stop shopfor financial news. That’s how Thomson Reuters describes its newest innovation, the video-on-demand platform, or VOD.read more

Stock Plays From Intel Commentary - Barron's - May 13, 2010
Collins Stewart likes Diodes, Dolby Labs, On Semi and more.

Housing Begins to Fade Without Spur - Barron's - May 13, 2010
Once again, benefits of subsidies are gained by intrepid sales people rather than buyers for whom they were intended.

Return on Investment - About.com. - May 13, 2010
Return on Investment definition

New Business Marketing Plan - About.com. - May 13, 2010
How to create a marketing plan for a business startup

GAAP's Lawsuit Buffer - CFO - May 12, 2010
The rules-based nature of U.S. generally accepted accounting principles may actually discourage shareholder lawsuits, says a new study.

Market Tumult Draws Dividing Line - WSJ - May 12, 2010
When officials at NYSE Euronext and Nasdaq OMX Group decided to cancel transactions that strayed more than 60% from the price at 2:40 p.m. last Thursday, many saw their profits either evaporate or solidify.

What Are the Charts Saying About Gold? - Barron's - May 12, 2010
When the dollar rises, the yellow metal usually falls. The fact that gold has defied that norm lately is telling.

Exchange-Rate Volatility Boosts Banks - Barron's - May 12, 2010
J.P. Morgan says Bank of New York and others stand to gain.

Gold Is Still Golden - Barron's - May 12, 2010
The fundamentals remain strong even as the yellow metal breaks record prices.

Report: IRS must improve verification techniques to prevent ID theft - Accounting Web - May 12, 2010
The Internal Revenue Service must do more to protect the identity of taxpayers calling its toll-free assistance lines, a recent report concluded.read more

COBRA premium subsidy extended for third time - Accounting Web - May 12, 2010
Congress has extended eligibility for the COBRA premium subsidy for two months as one provision of The Continuing Extension Act of 2010 enacted April 15th.read more

INSIDE Public Accounting to name top 200 firms - Accounting Web - May 12, 2010
For more than 20 years, INSIDE Public Accounting(IPA)has compiled the annual IPA Top 100 accounting firms, the IPA Best of the Best managed firms, the IPA All-Stars, and, new in 2010, IPA will name the “Beyond the IPA Top 100” – a list of the nation’s Top 200 accounting firms. This list will be announced in September.read more

'Goldfinger' Brown's Coda: Record Bullion Price - Barron's - May 12, 2010
But gold's rally reflects sovereign debt woes as monetary growth stagnates.

Bank of New York Seen Settling Ivy Suit - Barron's - May 12, 2010
Janney Capital says the bank may settle for as much as $1 billion.

What You Need to Know About Renting a Car - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 12, 2010
A little prep will help you hold the line on nuisance charges and fees.

Financial-Aid Form Gets a Facelift - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 12, 2010
The new FAFSA is shorter, more helpful and less confusing.

How to Cope When Storms Strike - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 12, 2010
Tornadoes in the Midwest and flooding in the South remind us of the need to be prepared.

Smart Moves for Life's Big Events: Starting a Family - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 12, 2010
Children are expensive. Fortunately, tax breaks can help pay the bills.

Portfolios That Fit Your Needs - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 12, 2010
Tailor your investing plan to match your goals, time frame and appetite for risk.

Revamped Scoring Will Help Some Small Businesses Get Loans - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 12, 2010
The new credit score model will give banks more confidence to lend.

Public Pensions: The Trillion-Dollar Hole - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 12, 2010
Some states are scaling back their retirement plans to help close the funding gap in their pension systems.

A Second Chance at Tax Savings - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 12, 2010
You've got about three years to amend your return, so go back and make sure you got everything you deserve.

Flash Crash May Prove Blemish For ETFs - WSJ - May 11, 2010
Exchange-traded funds don't appear to have been the cause of the flash crash. But a disproportionate number of these stock baskets saw trading snarled as a result of it. The day could stand as a blemish on the products' reputation for reliability as trading vehicles

A day in the life of... an interim CFO - Accounting Web - May 11, 2010
Marc Palker, director at CFO Consulting Partners LLCin Princeton, NJ, has been working as an interim CFO since 1996. He is a CMA and member of the Institute of Management Accountants, and his company provides interim CFO, part-time, CFO, and CFO consulting services to a variety of businesses.read more

Fear factor: Intimidating print, TV ads used in amnesty program - Accounting Web - May 11, 2010
Tax amnesty can be an effective way for a taxing authority to quickly fill its coffers, clear a lot of names off the delinquency list, and help balance the budget. States do it from time to time, though critics warn that it can undermine regular collections if taxpayers begin to sense a pattern.read more

'Flash Crash' Leaves Haves and Have-Nots - WSJ - May 11, 2010
When officials at NYSE Euronext and Nasdaq OMX Group decided last week to cancel certain transactions made during Thursday's market tumult, they drew a sharp dividing line. Sometimes at the same firm.

Rules Coming on 401(k) Advice - WSJ - May 11, 2010
A federal agency hopes to move forward with a regulation on investment advice for individual account plans, such as 401(k)s, within the next few months.

Speeders on strapped cities' radar - MSN Finance - May 11, 2010
Watch out, leadfoots: Some local and state governments are trying to patch budget potholes with big increases in traffic fines and enforcement.

Pound, Euro on Sale - WSJ - May 11, 2010
You might want to consider changing some of your dollars sooner rather than later, writes Brett Arends. Both fell a long way in the uncertainty leading into Sunday night's bailout, and that may not last.

Amazon denies North Carolina’s request for tax-related information - Accounting Web - May 11, 2010
North Carolina has raised the ire of online retailer Amazon by beginning an audit of its compliance with state sales and use tax laws.read more

AICPA launches Web site - Accounting Web - May 11, 2010
The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants this week launched its Web site AICPA.org. Designed to be comprehensive and user friendly, the site was developed to provide members with an easier-to-navigate online resource to meet their intensive information needs.read more

Potential Liabilities From Gulf Disaster - Barron's - May 11, 2010
Credit Suisse says the rig may be considered a ship under maritime law.

Shorting Seafood Stocks - Barron's - May 11, 2010
Buy puts on shares of Darden and Landry's to profit off of the Gulf of Mexico oil spill.

Best Options in Electronics Manufacturing - Barron's - May 11, 2010
Ticonderoga says Plexus is the best-run name in the sector.

Understanding the New Overdraft Coverage Rules - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 11, 2010
New federal regulations make it easier to avoid outrageous overdraft fees.

Media’s Bright Spots - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 11, 2010
The big winner ten years from now will be a company that is tiny today or hasn't even been born yet.

Strong Job Gains Signal Lower Unemployment Ahead - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 11, 2010
More of the jobless are looking again. By year-end, they should get better results.

Is the Bull Market History? - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 11, 2010
Europe’s financial woes must be resolved. But additional 2010 gains are still possible.

How to Check Out a Used Car - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 11, 2010
Before buying, do these two things to make sure the vehicle is in good condition.

Gauging the Gulf Oil Spill's Economic Cost - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 11, 2010
The environmental disaster isn’t guaranteed to be an economic one as well.

5 Ways to Manage Market Turbulence - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 11, 2010
Start by staying calm and sticking with stocks.

Kagan Likely To Win Confirmation - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 11, 2010
Obama chooses a potential consensus builder to serve on the Supreme Court.

How to Play Defense - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 11, 2010
Start building your own defensive position by investing in firms that benefit from military spending.

Creditors, Not Sovereign Debtors, Are Bailed Out - Barron's - May 10, 2010
Bonds, bank stocks rally on near-trillion-dollar EU/IMF package, but austerity remains for the public in debtor nations.

Tech CFOs Eye Role in Policy Debates - CFO - May 10, 2010
The head of an IT trade group wants technology CFOs to advance their agendas in Washington.

FASB Hits the Jackpot Question - CFO - May 10, 2010
While casinos are only a small percentage of U.S. business, an update to an accounting rule on jackpots brings a welcome degree of uniform practice to accrual accounting.

Emotion Drives Many Defaults - WSJ - May 10, 2010
Many of the Americans defaulting on their mortgages are doing so out of anger, fear or despair rather than making a purely sensible decision about their best financial interests, a new study found.

Eurotrashed: It's not just Greece - MSN Money - May 10, 2010
As the Greek debt crisis threatens to extend to Spain and beyond, even with a European Union bailout, 7 big banks face significant risk.

3 superb funds to buy while you can - MSN Money - May 10, 2010
The bear market opened the doors of many great stock funds that had closed because too many people wanted in. Buy into the best before the gates swing shut again.

Budgeting survey discloses causes of CFO headaches - Accounting Web - May 10, 2010
Centage Corporation and The Institute of Management & Administration (IOMA) conducted a Budgeting Survey to examine difficulties faced by CFOs related to budgeting, planning, forecasting and reporting.read more

The Trouble With Stock-Market Volatility - Barron's - May 10, 2010
History tells us that unstable markets often present investors with higher-than-normal risks.

CFOs confidence on the rise, albeit modestly - Accounting Web - May 10, 2010
A year has made a substantial difference in the practices and mindset of Chief Financial Officers as they continue to lead their companies out of one of the most difficult periods in global financial history. Findings from the first quarter 2010 CFO Outlook Surveyconducted by Financial Executives International (FEI) and Baruch College’s Zicklin School of Business, reveal that CFOs are undoubtedly more optimistic, and they see several bright spots for the future.read more

Are the Markets Too Big To Regulate? - Barron's - May 10, 2010
The alphabet soup of exchanges and regulatory agencies certainly make reforming the system that much harder.

When Are Times Right For Momentum Investing? - Barron's - May 10, 2010
There's research suggesting that this stock-picking approach's effectiveness is tied to expectations of volatility.

Chips May Feel the EU Crunch - Barron's - May 10, 2010
Macquarie Capital says there may be a second-half inventory correction.

Obama's HIRE Act - Explaining the Tax Provisions - Site Headlines - May 10, 2010
President Obama signed the Hiring Incentives to Restore Employment Act (the HIRE Act) on March 18, 2010. The HIRE Act provides $18.6 billion in tax provisions including $13 billion in tax breaks for hiring and retaining qualified workers. Additionally, the HIRE Act increases the expensing limitations under Section 179 of the Code for 2010 and expands the Build America Bonds program.

Corporations: Good Time for Tax-Wise Transactions - Site Headlines - May 10, 2010
With the passage of the massive healthcare bill, odds are the current taxpayer-friendly picture will only last through the end of this year. Unless Congress takes action to extend the status quo, higher taxes on dividends and long-term gains will kick in on January 1, 2011, when the "Bush tax cuts" are scheduled to expire.

Recent Tax Changes Affect Companies Doing Business in Colorado, Massachusetts and Pennsylvania - Site Headlines - May 10, 2010
Effective March 1, 2010, Colorado expanded its sales/use tax to require a non-Colorado retailer to collect Colorado sales/use tax when it is part of a controlled group of corporations where one or more of the members has a physical presence in Colorado. This expansion of tax nexus law has been tried before unsuccessfully in other states, where it was ruled unconstitutional. However, this may create a potential tax exposure for non-Colorado businesses that are members of these controlled groups.

New Avenues Open for Employers to Save on Payroll Taxes - Site Headlines - May 10, 2010
Employers should be alert to significant new legislative and judicial developments in the collection and payment of payroll taxes.Payroll Tax Exemption for New Hires. The Internal Revenue Service has released a new tax form to help employers claim the payroll tax exemption adopted into law by the Hiring Incentives to Restore Employment Act (HIRE Act), signed by President Obama on March 18, 2010.

IRS Releases Draft Form and Instructions for New Disclosures of Uncertain Tax Positions on Tax Returns - Site Headlines - May 10, 2010
The IRS on April 19 released new information (Announcement 2010-30) together with draft instructions and a tax return schedule for its initiative to require corporate taxpayers to report “uncertain tax positions” (UTPs) on their returns.

Lilly-Incyte Partnership Bearing Fruit - Barron's - May 10, 2010
Credit Suisse cites positive data from a rheumatoid arthritis trial.

LLC Organizing Document - About.com. - May 10, 2010
Describes a certificate of organization for a limited liability company

Default - About.com. - May 10, 2010
Describes the act of being in default on a loan, and the consequences.

Business Leasing Process - About.com. - May 9, 2010
Here is a description of the process of finding a location and leasing space for your business.

How to Estimate the Value of Donated Items - WSJ - May 8, 2010
Fellow hoarders, take a fresh look at your overcrowded closets. You might uncover some valuable tax deductions.

Find Your Tax Refund - WSJ - May 8, 2010
Still waiting for your income-tax refund? Here's where to check its status.

Readers' Mailbag - WSJ - May 8, 2010
Alexandra Levit answers readers' questions about working from home, how to avoid working for companies doomed to fail, and more.

Changes to Medicare Advantage - WSJ - May 8, 2010
Over the next 10 years, the new health-care law will divert some $132 billion from Medicare Advantage, sparking concern that it may reduce benefits, raise premiums, or both.

Think Like a Worker - WSJ - May 8, 2010
To successfully make the transition from college student to working professional, you need to realize that it's no longer just about you.

How to Appraise Home Appraisers - WSJ - May 8, 2010
In today's real estate market, the home appraiser plays a vital role in the sale of a house. Here are some tips on what to look for when hiring one.

Looking for Income? Find the Big Dividends. - WSJ - May 8, 2010
Get ready for a flurry of stock buybacks and dividend payouts over the next couple of years, thanks to record amounts of cash building up in corporate coffers.

Bears Come Back for Wild Week - WSJ - May 8, 2010
Trim your portfolio if you must, but don't dump shares. That's the view of traders and analysts on the heels of one of the most brutal weeks for the stock market in the past year.

Surprise Tax Hit on Foreclosures - WSJ - May 8, 2010
People who lose or walk away from their homes may have to face a surprise tax bill.

The Barron's 500 -- Playing Defense - Barron's - May 8, 2010
Health care, consumer products and defense are well represented at the top of our latest ranking of the largest companies in the U.S. and Canada.

It's Time to Check Out of Hotel Stocks - Barron's - May 8, 2010
Hotel chains like Starwood and Host Hotels will book more business as the economy revives. But their stocks reflect a bit too much optimism.

Market Mayhem Confirms Need for Better Regs - Barron's - May 8, 2010
Re-evaluating high-frequency-trading rules.

Amid Fears, Spain Offers Some Bargains - Barron's - May 8, 2010
The pain in Spain lies mainly in disdain.

Time to Prospect for Australian Miners? - Barron's - May 8, 2010
Hang on to those Aussie mining shares.

Bear Scare - Barron's - May 8, 2010
Try not to get rattled by the market rout. Instead, here's a chance to shop for stocks.

Stocks Give Up All of 2010's Gains -- Now What? - Barron's - May 8, 2010
Indexes worldwide take a huge hit as Greece burns and robots fidget.

When Global Debt Shuffle Hits Home - WSJ - May 8, 2010
The market's terrifying drop on Thursday was more than a technical trading glitch. It was a warning that the U.S. economy is playing a dangerous game.

How to Play the Market Plunge - WSJ - May 7, 2010
The return of volatility has investors on edge. Here's what they should do.

A Surprise Tax Hit on Foreclosures - WSJ - May 7, 2010
People who lose or walk away from their homes may have to face a surprise tax bill.

Some Tax Breaks That Aren't Going Away - WSJ - May 7, 2010
Surprise: Not all taxes are going up. On April 15, the House of Representatives passed a tax exemption for employer-provided cellphones and smartphones. Here are some others.

Shopping Europe When It's Down - WSJ - May 7, 2010
Managers of Europe-focused mutual funds are finding bargains in many sectors—but most remain extremely skeptical of Greece.

The 10 most inventive US companies - MSN Money - May 7, 2010
When it comes to patenting technology and making money off it, some of these companies are hard to beat.

Euro trouble won't end with Greece - MSN Money - May 7, 2010
Even if a solution can be found that keeps Greece in the eurozone, bigger nations face similar difficulties. And in the US, we may be seeing the recent rally fail.

Cashing In on a Real-Estate Boom - WSJ - May 7, 2010
Most commercial properties are slumping, but "triple net lease"deals are hot.

When Mortgage Relief Is a Band-Aid - WSJ - May 7, 2010
As the Obama administration prods banks to rev up mortgage modifications for millions of American households, an obstacle is emerging: Many people's debt woes go far deeper than their home loans.

Exploiting the New Student-Loan Rules - WSJ - May 7, 2010
Tuition continues to soar, but there might be some relief for borrowers grappling with student-loan debt: federal income-based repayment programs.

Are Online Brokers Broken? - Barron's - May 7, 2010
The Dow's unprecedented plunge on Thursday casts a cloud of uncertainty over TD Ameritrade, Schwab and E-Trade.

It's time to dump foreign-stock funds - MSN Money - May 7, 2010
Investors are nervous as European and other global markets take a beating. If you wonder if you should sell your international-stock funds, here's an idea: Dump them.

Greek Tragedy Unfolds - CFO - May 7, 2010
Greece's sovereign debt crisis is spilling over to other countries and markets. What does it mean for CFOs?

CFOs on the Move: Week Ending May 7 - CFO - May 7, 2010
Caterpillar, Response Genetics, GlobalEnglish, Sonus Networks, Asset Acceptance Capital, Kofax, Cempra Pharmaceuticals, Safety National, Silicon Image, Grubb & Ellis.

CPA2Biz, XCM Solutions form partnership - Accounting Web - May 7, 2010
CPA2Biz, a national provider of Web-based solutions for CPAs, and XCM Solutions, LLC, a provider of work-management technology for the accounting profession, announced they have formed a strategic alliance. The agreement brings XCM Solutions’ workflow automation capabilities into CPA2Biz’s Trusted Business AdvisorSolutions cloud computing platform. read more

Best Values in Regional Banks - Barron's - May 7, 2010
Morgan Keegan likes names including Synovus, Huntington and Fifth Third.

6 retailers poised for record profits - MSN Money - May 7, 2010
The biggest jump in consumer spending in 3 years helped the economy grow at a 3.2% annual rate in the first quarter. That's welcome news for the nation's retailers.

Banking May Return to Traditional M&A - Barron's - May 7, 2010
Sandler O'Neill says the most lucrative FDIC-assisted deals have happened.

Depreciation on Financials - About.com. - May 7, 2010
Discussion of how depreciation is displayed on the balance sheet and income statement of a company

Articles of Incorporation - About.com. - May 7, 2010
Here are the basic sections of Articles of Incorporation

Mild Recovery Faces Test Ahead - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 7, 2010
The economy's picking itself up, but there are forces trying to knock it down.

5 Medical Conditions That Raise Life Insurance Rates Most - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 7, 2010
You might be surprised to discover that cancer doesn't rank number one.

When Your Tree Falls in Your Neighbor's Yard - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 7, 2010
The neighbor, not you, will have to file an insurance claim.

Yes, You Can Roll Over a 401(k) into a Roth IRA - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 7, 2010
You can do so without converting to a traditional IRA first.

Buy a House, Sell REITs - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 7, 2010
One of the savviest and most cautious real estate investors says that housing prices have hit bottom but real estate investment trusts could fall a long way.

Tax Error? Can't Blame the Software - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 7, 2010
The “Tim Geithner Defense” gets rejected by the Tax Court.

Our 25 Favorite Funds - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 7, 2010
We tweaked the Kiplinger 25 to build in more safety and diversification.

Patients Pay Extra for Premium Care - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 7, 2010
Some cash upfront can get you to the head of the line.

Your Big, Fat-Fingered Debacle - Barron's - May 6, 2010
The collapse is blamed on computers, but that misses the point. Debt deflation is unabated by the ECB.

Should CFOs Serve on Their Own Boards? - CFO - May 6, 2010
A new study finds some surprising benefits associated with CFOs who serve on their own companies' boards.

3 ways to lock in income for life - MSN Finance - May 6, 2010
Market meltdowns and shrinking portfolios have rekindled interest in annuities as a safe way to help fund retirement.

M&A May Continue in Tech Distribution - Barron's - May 6, 2010
Credit Suisse cites strong balance sheets and easy access to credit.

Mortgage rates steady as tax credit fades - MSN Finance - May 6, 2010
For the first time in two years, the housing market will have to do without aggressive federal incentives. But so far, mortgage rates have remained low.

Olin's Chemical Attraction - Barron's - May 6, 2010
Here's an options play on the maker of both bullets and hydrochloric acid.

Should I buy a Mac or a PC for my accounting firm? - Accounting Web - May 6, 2010
By Chad Brubaker, CEO, www.emochila.comAs you read this article, odds are you are looking at it on a PC. That is because traditionally most accounting and tax software has been built specifically for PCs.read more

Who's the Real Beneficiary of the Greek Bailout? - Barron's - May 6, 2010
The €110 billion EU/IMF package may help the creditors more than the debtors.

Board of Directors - About.com. - May 6, 2010
Everything you need to know about board of directors, including compensation, how to select, fiduciary duties, conflict of interest.

Listen to Your Portfolio - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 6, 2010
Tune out market prognosticators and let your asset allocation help guide your investing decisions, says Liz Ann Sonders, Charles Schwab's chief investment strategist.

Is Obama Weak on Terrorism? - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 6, 2010
The charge may win the GOP political points, but it won't help protect the country any.

10 Affordable Mother's Day Gifts - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 6, 2010
You don't have to spend a lot -- or anything at all -- to show mom how much you love her.

New Rules for Brokers May Help Investors - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 6, 2010
But investors will pay a price for added protection. Trading fees are likely to rise.

States Eye More Taxes on Services - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 6, 2010
Fighting red ink, states may widen tax base by targeting items from laundry to roofing.

C&I Lending to Stay in Doldrums - CFO - May 5, 2010
Structural and regulatory pressures will continue to dampen commercial credit, studies say.

Can Blockbuster be saved? - MSN Money - May 5, 2010
A video-rental entrepreneur is pushing a plan he thinks can keep the beleaguered rental chain out of bankruptcy. But company officials don't appear to be interested.

Buy Top Semi Stocks on Dips - Barron's - May 5, 2010
Credit Suisse favors Intel, Texas Instruments, Marvell and Broadcom.

It's Time to Get Defensive - Barron's - May 5, 2010
With the recent stock selloff, the stock market added price breakdowns to a growing list of negative technical evidence.

Many small nonprofits may lose tax-exempt status - Accounting Web - May 5, 2010
Many small nonprofit organizations with annual receipts of less than $25,000 will lose their tax exempt status if they do not file a full return or a Form 990 N, an electronic notice e-postcard, with the Internal Revenue Service by May 15.read more

Verizon May Shift Budget to Wireless - Barron's - May 5, 2010
Morgan Keegan says Alcatel-Lucent and CommScope could benefit.

Dump the insurance on your clunker - MSN Finance - May 5, 2010
You may not need full coverage for an older vehicle. Instead, consider dropping everything but liability insurance; the savings could help pay for your next car.

The Return of Risk Aversion - Barron's - May 5, 2010
Europe's woes are fueling bullish options trading in large U.S. stocks and a bearish stance on smaller, riskier ones.

Execs say regulatory uncertainty hampering long-term planning - Accounting Web - May 5, 2010
U.S. senior executives are concerned about the impact regulatory reform will have on their businesses, but half say it could eventually be a "net positive," according to a recent survey conducted by KPMG LLP.In polling 126 C-suite executives, primarily from Fortune 1,000 companies, KPMG found almost all of the executives (94 percent) express a level of concern about the impact that reform legislation could have on their business, with one-quarter of them saying they were "extremely" concerned.read more

No More Carrying On in the Markets - Barron's - May 5, 2010
Risk positions are unwound, leading to a reversal of carry trades in reaction to deflationary developments.

SBA Loan Guarantees - About.com. - May 5, 2010
If you are having difficulty getting a bank to finance your business startup or expansion, you may be eligible for an SBA loan guarantee. Learn more about SBA guarantees and other assistance here.

7 Ways Moms Can Boost Their Financial Security - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 5, 2010
This Mother’s Day, focus on your financial future -- and that of your children.

Secrets of Selling a Used Car - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 5, 2010
Find out what tricks dealers and car buffs use to help you get top dollar for your vehicle.

The Mother of All Investing Evils - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 5, 2010
Rid yourself of the “bias blind spot” before addressing other problems that could affect your financial decisions.

Prepare for the Rising Cost of Long-Term Care - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 5, 2010
The price tag of a nursing-home room will continue to grow at a fast pace, but there are ways to offset the cost.

Ready Your Nest Egg for the Worst Case - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 5, 2010
Testing your portfolio for a 'black swan' market event could up the chances your nest egg will last a lifetime.

Our Money Survey Reveals What Matters - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 5, 2010
We asked what's on your mind. Here's what we learned -- and how you can join our survey.

Starting a Business Step #3 - Selecting Your Business Type - About.com - May 5, 2010


A Smoother Approach to Pension Accounting - CFO - May 4, 2010
The IASB's proposed rules for pension accounting could dampen the effect of asset gains and losses on the bottom line.

Push-Button Patent Review - CFO - May 4, 2010
Software programs that aid decisions whether or not to keep patents are useful, but should be relied on only to a point.

Philadelphia launches first tax amnesty program in more than two decades - Accounting Web - May 4, 2010
For the first time since 1986, Philadelphia is offering individuals and businesses delinquent in paying city taxes an opportunity to settle up on what they owe.read more

5 investments brighter than gold - MSN Money - May 4, 2010
The lustrous metal gets most of the publicity, but platinum is richer, and several other metals look like better investments. Or consider comic books, which can be worth far more than their weight in gold.

Tech brands prove their value - MSN Money - May 4, 2010
US tech titans hold the top four positions in a new report on how much the world's most prominent brand names are worth to the companies that own them.

Why BP Stock Looks Cheap - WSJ - May 4, 2010
BP's stock has plummeted in the wake of the oil disaster in the Gulf of Mexico. Should investors bail while they still can? Should the rest of us take advantage of the plunge to buy in cheaply? Brett Arends weighs in.

New do-it-yourself credit cards - MSN Finance - May 4, 2010
Now some cards can be customized with terms and rewards you choose -- to a point.

Don't Choke, Strangle When Stocks Turn Volatile - Barron's - May 4, 2010
Steven M. SearsOptions strategy can wring returns out of uncertainty.

Senate Kicks Off Bank Reform Debate - Barron's - May 4, 2010
As bills are brought together the product will likely be more centrist (and less extreme), says Ladenburg Thalmann.

Michigan CPA to serve up to 20 years for embezzlement - Accounting Web - May 4, 2010
An accountant from Kalamazoo, Michigan, has been sentenced to pay $3 million in restitution and to serve five to 20 years in prison for embezzlement from clients.read more

The IRS Wants to Know If You Pick a Derby Winner - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 4, 2010
Or if you have gambling winnings of any kind.

Supermarkets: Mergers Ahead - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 4, 2010
Consumers will actually benefit from a new wave of consolidation, driven in part by Wal-Mart's gains.

Fissures at the Fed - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 4, 2010
Policymakers are at odds over inflation. It's calm now, but how long can that last?

Wall Street Fix: Sleeping Together Helps - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 4, 2010
A real debate on the financial regulatory bill may actually be in the cards.

What a Rate Hike Means for Investors - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 4, 2010
The damage the stock market will sustain depends on how high and fast interest rates spike.

Bargains in Used Cars - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 4, 2010
Good deals are harder to find, but our strategies can help you trim the price.

Obama Won't Decide to Stop Oil Drilling - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 4, 2010
The BP spill will mean more regulations and safeguards, but it won't slow the expansion of offshore oil exploration.

Prepare Your Homeowners Insurance for Storm Season - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 4, 2010
Fill the gaps in your policy that could leave you without enough coverage if a hurricane strikes.

Economy Is Growing at a Solid Clip - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 4, 2010
Consumers are rejoining the action after a dismal showing last year.

What the United-Continental Merger Means for You - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 4, 2010
Passengers will see favorable -- and not-so-favorable -- changes if the deal is approved.

Simplify Your Financial Life - Kiplinger Personal Finance - May 4, 2010
Now is the perfect time to do some financial spring cleaning, from tossing old papers to digitizing important documents.

Still No Credit Where It's Due - Barron's - May 3, 2010
Randall W. ForsythBanks' lending standards remain stringent while junk-bond market is free and easy. What's different this time.

Study: Many Health Plans Not Affordable - CFO - May 3, 2010
Many companies could run afoul of the mandate to provide affordable health-care plans, says a new study.

An Arm's Length IPO - CFO - May 3, 2010
Through a series of carefully planned steps, a parent is able to distance itself from a related-party transaction and structure an initial public offering that takes advantage of key tax benefits.

Meet the credit score perfectionists - MSN Finance - May 3, 2010
Here's how they achieved (or came close to) the ultimate rating for creditworthiness and what the rewards are for keeping the scores so high.

How a money pro invests his own cash - MSN Money - May 3, 2010
Like a lot of people, an Atlanta financial adviser works hard to live frugally and save for retirement while making ends meet. Here's how he balances his own books.

Can China's car buyers save GM? - MSN Money - May 3, 2010
The world's most populous nation is experiencing huge growth in auto sales. For General Motors, the hitch is that all other carmakers on the planet know that, too.

50 stocks to buy in May - MSN Money - May 3, 2010
StockScouter, MSN Money's stock-picking tool, can help investors find companies capable of outperforming the broader market in the weeks ahead.

What Clothing Retail Stocks Are in Fashion? - Barron's - May 3, 2010
Jesup &Lamont is bullish on shares of Nordstrom, Saks, and Urban Outfitters.

The Unseen Figures of Your Funds - WSJ - May 3, 2010
Portfolio managers get the spotlight, but fund directors are ultimately responsible for seeing that investors are well served. Some critics say they aren't doing their job.

Rally in Retailers Looks Spent - Barron's - May 3, 2010
Michael KahnDepartment stores, a hot group since February, seem ready for a rest.

Expect Good, Not Great, Economic Growth - Barron's - May 3, 2010
The recession is fading away but strong growth may not be in our future.

States That Truly Bet On Small Business - Forbes - May 3, 2010
Grants, loans, equity capital: It's all out there if you know where to look.

Unseen Figures in Charge of Your Funds - WSJ - May 3, 2010
Portfolio managers get the spotlight, but fund directors are ultimately responsible for seeing that investors are well served. Some critics say they aren't doing their job.

Mixing It Up: Cash Provides a Cushion - WSJ - May 3, 2010
One financial-planning firm says people who lose their jobs should focus on conserving cash, instead of using a severance package to pay off debts.

Advice for the New Grad - WSJ - May 2, 2010
We asked a handful of financial advisers: Assuming a lucky grad has as much as $10,000 to invest, what one mutual fund or exchange-traded fund should launch a fledgling portfolio—and why?

Home Office Expense Deduction - About.com. - May 2, 2010
Here is a brief discussion of the home office expense deduction.

Fatter Bodies Mean Thinner Wallets - WSJ - May 2, 2010
As if we needed another reason for parents to drop excess weight and teach their kids good eating habits, it turns out obesity can mar kids' financial futures.

Navigating Civilian Life - WSJ - May 2, 2010
The transition from a military career to a civilian one can be more difficult than traditional career changes because military personnel must transform not just their vocations but their ways of life as well.

Cut Up Card a Safer Way - WSJ - May 2, 2010
Canceling an unused credit card can ding your credit score, but there's a way to minimize the impact.

Picking Your Business - WSJ - May 2, 2010
When choosing what type of business to launch, there are several factors to consider, but experts say one of the most important is choosing a path that will keep you motivated for the long haul.

Big Profits at Guess - WSJ - May 2, 2010
Guess's hefty profits and undervalued shares could be a bigger turn-on for some people than the skimpy jeans and revealing tops that are the apparel outfit's signature look.

Time for Banks to Turn Boring? - WSJ - May 2, 2010
Banks used to be boring. And the debate currently under way -- not just in the U.S., but around the world -- is whether they should be boring once again.

Watch Your Emails. Your Boss Is. - WSJ - May 2, 2010
These are a couple of workplace e-flaps that have made headlines recently as employers and employees struggle to figure out whether and to what extent personal use of company communications technology is acceptable.

Four Lessons From the Goldman Case - WSJ - May 2, 2010
The disputed investment at the heart of the Goldman Sachs fraud may seem a long way removed from the financial concerns of the rest of us, but there are lessons to be learned from the case.

An Action Plan for IT - CFO - May 1, 2010
CFOs who oversee technology should have no fear: a methodical, top-down management approach can produce strong results.

Ready, Set, Grow? - CFO - May 1, 2010
Deciding how (and when) to reinvigorate growth now ranks as a CFO's biggest challenge.

Cracking Down on Fees - CFO - May 1, 2010
As legislation looms, companies can take steps now to help employees build bigger nest eggs.

"Massive Ratings Don't Always Translate into Big Profits." - CFO - May 1, 2010
Programming a TV network is both art and science, and this CFO is happy to supply the science. An interview with Michael Pickrum, CFO of Black Entertainment Television LLC.

What's a Reputation Worth? - CFO - May 1, 2010
In the wake of the Toyota recall, more companies grapple with how to manage something they can't measure.

Double Trouble? Maybe Not - CFO - May 1, 2010
Companies that face simultaneous audits find that it pays to be diplomatic.

Weighing Your Next Move - CFO - May 1, 2010
Rock-bottom interest rates and new regulation call for a reexamination of short-term cash investments.

You Complete My Audit - CFO - May 1, 2010
Amid the tumult of Sarbanes-Oxley and thorny auditor-client issues lie long-lasting relationships, some that have endured for more than 50 years.

Spring Thaw - CFO - May 1, 2010
More firms are planning to restore pay increases this year, at least in small amounts.

The Provisional Pullback - Barron's - May 1, 2010
Michael SantoliReality bites stocks.

Good News Gets the Cold Shoulder - Barron's - May 1, 2010
S&P sheds 2.5%, despite good economics news. A loss of risk appetite?

In Greece, a Classic Dilemma - Barron's - May 1, 2010
Greek bonds fetch 20%, a mark of unsustainable debt levels.

The Condo Conundrum - Barron's - May 1, 2010
Lenders reluctance to pay overdue condo fees is merely postponing a new wave of U.S. foreclosures.

Prepare and Print W-2 Forms - About.com. - May 1, 2010
Describes how to gather information and prepare W-2 Wage and Tax Statements.

Health Permits Needed - About.com. - May 1, 2010
Although the requirements for health permits vary, here is a list of the common types of businesses that must have health permits.

Business Startup Benefits - About.com. - May 1, 2010
Working for yourself means you are self-employed, as a contractor or independent contractor. Here is why you should set up a business entity.

Zoning Types - About.com. - May 1, 2010
Zoning Types are listed and described in this QuickTip.

This Week: Spending Is Back - WSJ - April 30, 2010
GDP rose at a 3.2% pace in the first quarter, average home prices were about par with the second half of 2003, and a volatile week for the Dow industrials left the index at 11008, down 1.75% for the week.

How to Prey on Executive Pay - WSJ - April 30, 2010
New research finds that investors can beat the market by about two percentage points a year, after trading costs, by piggybacking on the shares of companies that award options to their CEOs.

Small Caps Loom Large - WSJ - April 30, 2010
After a decade of dominance, small-company stocks are still rallying. But how long will the party last?

Big Health Bills on Campus - WSJ - April 30, 2010
Some colleges overcharge students with private insurance—and late fees can spiral.

Unfazed by IFRS - CFO - April 30, 2010
Would switching to international accounting standards have a major effect on your company? Maybe not, said panelists at a recent accounting conference.

Greece's debt woes test EU unity - MSN Money - April 30, 2010
As the crisis threatens to spread, the grand vision of the European Union is cracking. And the only thing financially that makes the US different: Its own printing press.

The Gulf Spill's Impact on Oil-Services Stocks - Barron's - April 30, 2010
Sterne Agree assesses the disaster's effect on stocks such as Transocean, Halliburton and Cameron International.

China's Earning Momentum Slowing Down - Barron's - April 30, 2010
Credit Suisse still thinks banks are undervalued.

Leaving Your Roth IRA to the Kids - WSJ - April 30, 2010
Unless you take precautions, such as setting up a trust, your heirs could potentially forfeit decades of tax-free growth.

U.S. Role in Mortgage Market Grows Even Larger - WSJ - April 30, 2010
The U.S. government's massive share of the nation's mortgage market grew even larger in the first quarter, rising to 96.5% of all home loans during the first quarter, up from 90% in 2009.

Wealthy Investors Discover Timberland - WSJ - April 30, 2010
Since 1987, timberland has handily beaten stocks—but the asset class makes sense only for ultrawealthy, ultralong-term investors.

Fannie Tightens Lending Standards - WSJ - April 30, 2010
Fannie Mae said it will tighten underwriting on adjustable-rate mortgages and "interest-only"loans that helped fuel the housing bubble.

Same-sex couples' health costs higher - MSN Finance - April 30, 2010
Even if a state or employer allows coverage for a partner, federal laws don't offer the same tax advantages that heterosexual couples have.

CFOs on the Move: Week Ending April 30 - CFO - April 30, 2010
Dahlman Rose, ICG Commerce, Allot Communications, Global Cash Access Holdings, Network Equipment Technologies, Amgen, Media Sciences International, Tekelec.

Buffett Set to Fire on Goldman - WSJ - April 30, 2010
Warren Buffett is expected to discuss Goldman Sachs, in which he has invested, at this weekend's Berkshire Hathaway shareholders meeting. Buffett says he expects to "give extensive and complete replies"to Goldman-related questions.

Monthly Business Expenses - About.com. - April 30, 2010
Although businesses differ in the types of expenses they have, many businesses have common monthly expenses.

Trademark Registration Process - About.com. - April 30, 2010
If you have a trademark or service mark that you want to register, here is the process to use.

Buffett Set to Fire at Will on Goldman - WSJ - April 29, 2010
Warren Buffett is expected to discuss Goldman Sachs, in which he has invested, at this weekend's Berkshire Hathaway shareholders meeting. Buffett says he expects to "give extensive and complete replies"to Goldman-related questions.

New Jersey's "Just Say No"Debt Plan - Barron's - April 29, 2010
Randall W. ForsythWill the Garden State be at the vanguard of new fiscal sanity? A selection of NJ bonds to ride out the crisis.

Sell-off in Education Stocks May Be Overdone - Barron's - April 29, 2010
Securities-firm Signal Hill argues that the federal government is limited in the pressure it can place on for-profit education providers.

Safe Bets: Unilever, Procter &Gamble - Barron's - April 29, 2010
Consumers are spending again, which means shares of Unilever and P&G should benefit.

Capex Cuts Still Boosting Cash Flow - CFO - April 29, 2010
Cutbacks in capital spending have made corporate free cash flow stronger than ever, says a new study.

A Global View of Risk - CFO - April 29, 2010
With its latest annual study, the World Economic Forum's Global Risk Network challenges executives to think more broadly about threats to their businesses.

Break up the big banks -- now - MSN Money - April 29, 2010
Financial innovation is more likely when banks compete. But today's megabanks are more conducive to crony capitalism than free enterprise. 

The recession is over? Yeah, right - MSN Money - April 29, 2010
The numbers indicate that the longest downturn since the Depression has finally ended. But the numbers haven't erased a lot of the nation's economic pain.

For seniors, wrecks are more severe - MSN Finance - April 29, 2010
Older drivers have the highest rates of fatal and incapacitating crashes and the most accidents per mile driven, researchers say.

Questions Galore in Store for Buffett - Barron's - April 29, 2010
Berkshire's annual meeting on Saturday will likely feature queries on Goldman, Burlington and derivatives. Who's next, Warren?

Exchanges Might Benefit from Financial Reform - Barron's - April 29, 2010
Sandler O'Neil believes that new business could go to CME Group, Intercontinental Exchange, and Nasdaq if a new law is enacted.

Investing vs Loaning Money - About.com. - April 29, 2010
Describes the two ways you can give money to your business - loans or investments

Liaibility of Corporate Boards - About.com. - April 29, 2010
Liability of corporate board members

Commissions and Fees Expenses - About.com. - April 29, 2010
An explanation of the allowable deduction for commissions and fees paid to independent contractors.

NASA Defenders Getting Creative - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 29, 2010
Congress aims to save the Constellation rocket, despite Obama's opposition.

The Paperwork a Small Estate Demands - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 29, 2010
Kiplinger editorial director Kevin McCormally and fellow tax experts Peter Blank and Mary Beth Franklin tackle your most pressing tax challenges

Reruns of That 'Thirties Show? - Barron's - April 29, 2010
Randall W. ForsythEerie parallels emerge between current economic events and those of eight decades ago.

Costly changes to 1099 reporting in health care law - Accounting Web - April 28, 2010
Beginning in 2012, under a little discussed mandate of the health care reform legislation, businesses will be required to report all payments in excess of $600 for services or merchandise to the Internal Revenue Service on a Form 1099.read more

Fuld fights back in Lehman failure testimony - Accounting Web - April 28, 2010
Lehman Brothers’s former CEO, Richard Fuld, in his appearance before the U.S. House Financial Services Committee last week blamed rumors, timing, regulators, and a “crisis of confidence and a run on the bank” for the fall of the investment firm.read more

The IRS Picks On the Little Guy - CFO - April 28, 2010
Tax audits of big companies have declined as the Internal Revenue Service shifts its attention to smaller businesses.

The New Star of IT Cost Allocation - CFO - April 28, 2010
Making sure business units understand what they're paying for can help drive IT cost control.

Colleges' rejects who made it big - MSN Finance - April 28, 2010
Teenagers turned down by their first-choice colleges are in good company: Warren Buffett, Tom Brokaw and other prominent Americans also received rejection letters.

E&Y, PwC join KPMG in declaring themselves free of business ties to Iran - Accounting Web - April 28, 2010
Ernst & Youngand Pricewaterhouse Coopers have declared that they no longer maintain business relationships with Iranian firms. read more

Goldman's take-no-prisoners attitude - MSN Money - April 28, 2010
As the market for risky subprime loans deteriorated in 2007, the investment bank's mortgage unit bet that prices would plunge, creating a nearly $4 billion windfall.

Texas Society of CPAs use social media to promote financial literacy - Accounting Web - April 28, 2010
The Texas Society of Certified Public Accountants (TSCPA) is using various social media outlets to spread a message of personal financial responsibility, and to promote April 30th as Financial Literacy Social Media Outreach Day.TSCPA and its 28,000 members are aggressively embracing and leveraging the power of social media through Facebook, LinkedIn, blogs, and e-mail to help make a positive impact on the personal financial well-being of those in need.read more

Where car insurance costs the most - MSN Finance - April 28, 2010
There are big differences among states in what you'll pay for the same coverage. And if you think the most congested states have the highest rates, think again.

Crunch Time for Stocks - Barron's - April 28, 2010
Michael KahnHow the U.S. market handles negative factors, from the European debt crisis to weakening copper prices, will tell the tale.

Inspired by a coworker with MS, Sullivan &Company walks for the National MS Society - Accounting Web - April 28, 2010
When Michele Dandurand had to leave Providence, RI-based CPA firm Sullivan & Company in July of last year due to complications from secondary progressive multiple sclerosis, it was a difficult transition for this seasoned human resources manager who enjoys her independence and likes to be busy. She had been diagnosed with MS 22 years earlier and had been able to handle the symptoms that come with the unpredictable disease.read more

5 Attractive Alternative Energy Stocks - Barron's - April 28, 2010
Maxim Group handicaps energy and infrastructure companies that are reporting earnings next week.

Should you live like 'The Waltons'? - MSN Finance - April 28, 2010
Multigeneration households are back. Though living with your parents again -- or with your adult offspring -- will save money, it can be challenging. Try these 4 tips to cope.

Learning to Love Volatility - Barron's - April 28, 2010
Steven M. SearsMarket upheavals offer opportunities to sell richly priced options.

How Governments Should Spur Entrepreneurship - Forbes - April 28, 2010
Don't pick winners--facilitate experimentation.

Stocks That Can Benefit from Rebuilding America - Barron's - April 28, 2010
Sterne Agee looks at the prospects for Martin Marietta and Vulcan Materials.

Greece Junked, Risk Assets Trashed - Barron's - April 28, 2010
Randall W. ForsythThe flight to quality picks up as the European debt crisis leaves few good choices.

Biz Losses for Sole Proprietor - About.com. - April 28, 2010
Here is a discussion of how losses for different legal entities are determined and how they may be used to offset income from other sources.

Business Tax Deductions - About.com. - April 28, 2010
Describes business tax deductions and deductible expenses

How to Switch Careers: The Professional Pivot - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 28, 2010
What you need to know to break into a new industry, land a government job or join a nonprofit.

Lower Your Gas Costs - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 28, 2010
Follow these five tips to offset the rising cost of gasoline.

Profit From Asian Dividends - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 28, 2010
Matthews Asia Dividend Fund offers a lower-risk way to invest in emerging-market companies that share their wealth with shareholders.

Make Money From Investors' Mistakes? - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 28, 2010
These mutual funds try to beat the market by using the science that studies financial decision-making.

FCC Likely to Get Back Control of the Internet - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 28, 2010
Verizon, Google and others are lining up on both sides of a fight in Congress.

How to Get Kids Motivated About Money Management - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 28, 2010
Parents can learn a few lessons about teaching their children financial literacy from these school programs.

Changes Coming for Student Loans - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 28, 2010
A new law provides more money for high-need students and better repayment terms for borrowers with a lot of debt.

The big wheel - MSN Money - April 28, 2010
Day traders and the long-term investor have vastly different brokerage needs. Here’s how to find the right broker if there's a lot at stake.

The active trader - MSN Money - April 28, 2010
Day traders and the long-term investor have vastly different brokerage needs. Here’s how to find the right broker if like to keep busy trading.

The handheld investor - MSN Money - April 28, 2010
Day traders and the long-term investor have vastly different brokerage needs. Here’s how to find the right broker if you need a lot of guidance.

The buy-and-hold investor - MSN Money - April 28, 2010
Day traders and the long-term investor have vastly different brokerage needs. Here’s how to find the right broker if you don't want to deal with a lot of trades.

The (really) small investor - MSN Money - April 28, 2010
Day traders and the long-term investor have vastly different brokerage needs. Here’s how to find the right broker if you are just beginning to invest.

How to choose the right brokerage - MSN Money - April 28, 2010
Day traders and the long-term investor will have vastly different brokerage needs. Here’s how to match your investing style to your broker.

Back to the Future - CFO - April 27, 2010
A longtime Sun CFO starts a second career with an up-and-coming company.

5 lies the big banks keep telling us - MSN Money - April 27, 2010
Do bankers seriously expect us to believe that they had no way of knowing the depth of the looming financial crisis or that others were entirely to blame?

Clients First at Goldman? - WSJ - April 27, 2010
At the Senate hearings some Goldman Sachs executives danced around the answer to a seemingly straightforward question: Does the firm put its clients first?

Salt Lake federal court bars CPA from preparing tax returns for others - Accounting Web - April 27, 2010
A federal court in Salt Lake City has permanently barred Dick Jenkins, a CPA from Heber City, Utah, from preparing tax returns for others, the Justice Department announced last week. U.S. District Judge Dale A.read more

New AICPA '360 Degrees of Financial Literacy' Web site debuts - Accounting Web - April 27, 2010
The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) has debuted a new 360 Degrees of Financial LiteracyWeb site to provide Americans with personalized tools and information to better manage their finances and make intelligent financial decisions.read more

Car insurance: 5 questions to ask - MSN Finance - April 27, 2010
Insurance agents tell what their customers should be asking -- but often don't -- before deciding what kind of coverage to buy.     

Will Natural-Gas Prices Continue to Deflate? - Barron's - April 27, 2010
Canaccord Adams is lowering its gas price forecasts for this year and next.

First-Quarter GDP is History; Beware a 2011 Slowdown - Barron's - April 27, 2010
Randall W. ForsythCertain fiscal and monetary tightenings recall 1937 moves that led to second leg of the Great Depression.

What are the Best Media Stocks? - Barron's - April 27, 2010
Shares of Viacom, Omnicom, and Clear Channel Outdoor stand out, argues Wedbush.

Schedule SE - About.com. - April 27, 2010
Describes Schedule SE which calculates self-employment taxes

Forms and Steps State-by-State - About.com. - April 27, 2010
You have decided to voluntarily end your business. What is the process of doing this? This article will give you the information you need and the steps you need to take.

Startup Funding Q&A - About.com. - April 27, 2010
Do you want to start a great business but you need funding? Read this article to learn more about the possible funding sources for businesses.

More Chicken Wings, Anyone? - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 27, 2010
New meat cutting processes promise a 50% increase in wing parts per bird.

New Grads and Health-Care Reform - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 27, 2010
Several insurers are letting adult children stay on their parents' policies after graduation.

Baby Gear You Don't Need - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 27, 2010
You can save a lot of money by buying second-hand items and resisting the urge to buy unnecessary products.

New Forms of Philanthropy -- With New Business Opportunities - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 27, 2010
Donors are no longer happy letting umbrella charities decide how their contributions will be used.

Putting Adult Children Back on Your Health Plan - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 27, 2010
If your kids are too old to be covered by your policy, they may be able to get back on after the health-reform law takes effect.

Stocks: Why Investors Can Still Expect 8% Long Term - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 27, 2010
Investors shun stocks at their peril. Attractive returns are in the cards.

8 Robots That Will Change Your Life - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 27, 2010
Scores of new robots are in the works. Many of them hold great promise of improving productivity in offices, in factories and on farms. Here are eight examples already on the market or headed to commercial production in the next few years.

Google Shakes Up Investor Relations - CFO - April 26, 2010
Google changes some key IR processes, ditching the newswires and putting its CFO in charge of quarterly calls.

Are Surplus Notes Disguised Equity? - CFO - April 26, 2010
If surplus notes look like debt, and act like debt, it's reasonable to assume the courts will treat them like debt for tax purposes.

AccountingWEB announces scholarship entry deadline extension - Accounting Web - April 26, 2010
Westerville, OH (April, 2010) - AccountingWEB, the leading online media company for accountants, is pleased to announce the deadline for entry in the 2010 Scholarship contest has been extended to May 15th, 2010. All entries must be received by this date. Winners will be selected in early June, 2010 and notified shortly thereafter. AccountingWEB will announce the winners to the public on June 15, 2010. More Info on 2010 AccountingWEB Accounting Student Scholarship Programread more

What's killing Citigroup -- slowly - MSN Money - April 26, 2010
It turns out that survival, which was no small feat, may have been the bank's easiest task. Has it, as the finance chief says, 'turned a corner'? Go to a branch to check.

How health care bill affects retirement - MSN Finance - April 26, 2010
Medicare services, long-term care, the 'doughnut hole' . . . the landmark legislation will be felt in a number of areas for retirees.

SIFE members' passion for business can be powerful force for change - Accounting Web - April 26, 2010
Students In Free Enterprise (SIFE), an international non-profit network of students, academics, and business leaders working with businesses and higher education organizations, is in the midst of its annual regional and national competitions.read more

Building on Housing Stocks' Gains - Barron's - April 26, 2010
Michael KahnAfter a technical breakout, the stocks might need a break before resuming their climb.

Survey: Majority of workers search online for information about themselves - Accounting Web - April 26, 2010
Although some might dub it egosurfing, others might call it a wise career move to conduct a Web search to see what information is available online about you. After all, what is visible to you also is visible to potential employers.read more

National Defense Authorization Act expands military family leave - Accounting Web - April 26, 2010
By Richard D. Alaniz While healthcare legislation has taken up most of the attention of the media and employers lately, Congress has also been busy with other matters. Last October, President Barack Obama signed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) of 2010 into law. Among other things, the amended NDAA expands the number of employees who are eligible to take Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) qualifying leave.read more

New Ratings on Oil and Gas Stocks - Barron's - April 26, 2010
Benchmark is upgrading shares of Chevron, but downgrading shares of BP and ConocoPhillips.

Lehman update: SEC, FASB to review repo accounting rules - Accounting Web - April 26, 2010
The Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) will evaluate the need for accounting rule changes relating to repurchase transactions following the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) review of how financial institutions other than Lehman Brothers use these transactions, according to a letterwritten to the U. S. House Financial Services Committee by Robert Herz, FASB chairman.read more

Telecom-Software Stocks to Consider - Barron's - April 26, 2010
Wedbush gives the nod to stocks such as Openwave, AsiaInfo, and Syniverse.

Business Contract Essentials - About.com. - April 26, 2010
Here are the essentials of a business contract, including the elements that make it enforceable.

What is an SBA 7(a) Loan? - About.com. - April 26, 2010
Here is a description of the SBA 7(a) loan program for small businesses. The program provides guarantees to lenders for small business loans.

Business Valuation Methods - About.com. - April 26, 2010
Describes various methods by which a business and its assets can be valued.

FMLA Laws in U.S. States - About.com. - April 26, 2010
States which have laws regarding family medical leave laws and how they differ from U.S. federal FMLA law.

Payroll / Payroll Taxes - About.com. - April 26, 2010
Tasks involved in processing payroll.

What Type of Corporation? - About.com. - April 26, 2010
Here is a discussion of the various forms of corporations: stock corporations and non-stock corporations, publicly traded stock corporations or private stock corporations and closely held corporations.

Pimco Embraces Emerging-Market Corporate Debt - WSJ - April 25, 2010
Pacific Investment Management, the world's biggest bond-fund manager, is increasingly investing in emerging-market corporate debt, part of a move to ramp up exposure to the fastest growing economies and assets with the highest returns.

Preparing Schedule K-1 - About.com. - April 25, 2010
How to prepare Schedule K-1 for a partnership or s corporation

Create a Biz Accounting System - About.com. - April 25, 2010
When you have purchased your business accounting software, your first task will be to set up all of the accounts that will be used for your business.

Amending A Business Tax Return - About.com. - April 25, 2010
If you have found an error on a business tax return you already filed, here is how to amend the return.

Taxes on S-Corporations - About.com. - April 25, 2010
Lists all the taxes an s corporation pays including income taxes, employment (payroll) taxes, sales and excise taxes, and property taxes.

Education Expenses - About.com. - April 25, 2010
Here is a discussion of deductible education expenses.

Secretary of State Website - About.com. - April 25, 2010
The website of your state's secretary of state has a lot of information you can use for your business.

W-2 Statement - About.com. - April 25, 2010
Definition and description of a W-2 form.

The S Corporation - About.com. - April 25, 2010
All about s corporations: How they are different from corporations and from limited liability companies, advantages and disadvantages of s corporations, how to form an s corporation and make the election to convert a c corporation to an s corporation.

Becoming Self-Employed - About.com. - April 25, 2010
Here is information you need in order to start a business as an independent contractor

VAT Pros and Cons - About.com. - April 25, 2010
Benefits and drawbacks of a Value Added Tax

How to Make an IRA Your Financial Backstop - WSJ - April 24, 2010
If you decide to tap your IRA early, using a little-known exemption to avoid penalties: be careful. It's still tapping savings that you will need for many years to come.

The Pitfalls of Fixating on Income - WSJ - April 24, 2010
With interest rates at rock-bottom levels, retirees are leaving no stone unturned in a search for income-producing investments.

Change Can Be Costly - WSJ - April 24, 2010
Many people are convinced they can't afford to make a career change, but there are several strategies to make it a financial reality.

Saving Up for Baby - WSJ - April 24, 2010
Having a baby changes everything, including your finances. And for parents-to-be in their 20s, the financial strain can be even more of a challenge.

In Job Hunting, Honesty Is Still the Best Policy - WSJ - April 24, 2010
With all the uncertainty and anxiety these days over landing a job with a steady paycheck, more job seekers are finding it harder to resist fudging on a résumé.

The Old Normal - Barron's - April 24, 2010
Michael SantoliInvestors are too giddy.

Greek Tragedy: Global Arena - Barron's - April 24, 2010
Randall W. ForsythGreece cries uncle as yields soar past 11%.

Wanna Bet? - Barron's - April 24, 2010
Alan AbelsonBarry Ritzholtz contends, contrary to the common view, that the case against Goldman is anything but weak. Like it or not, here comes financial reform.

Catching Up in a Bad Way - Barron's - April 24, 2010
These days, unemployment is gender-neutral.

Stocks Climb to a 19-Month High - Barron's - April 24, 2010
Indexes muscle upward despite Goldman news.

Be Very Careful - Barron's - April 24, 2010
The bulls in our Big Money poll pulled in their horns a bit and see only tepid gains for stocks between now and year's end. Stay away from bonds.

What's in the Cards for American Express, Capital One? - Barron's - April 24, 2010
Both announced strong earnings, but we think one of these credit card companies, in particular, will shine.

Ways to Play Asian Casino Growth - Barron's - April 24, 2010
Sterne Agee is bullish on shares of Las Vegas Sands, Wynn Resorts, and Melco Crown Entertainment.

The New Rules of Remodeling - WSJ - April 23, 2010
After years of economic recession and housing-market malaise, people are starting to fix up their homes again—but the forces driving today's action couldn't be more different from those during the boom.

Investment Risks Hide in Plain Sight - WSJ - April 23, 2010
Without full and proper disclosure, investors can't make an informed decision. Even with full and proper disclosure, however, many investors still can't make an informed decision.

Proxy Votes May Matter in 2010 - WSJ - April 23, 2010
Individual stockholders hold roughly 30% of all shares outstanding, enough to sway some elections. But they're voting in smaller numbers.

Is Travel Insurance Worth the Cost? - WSJ - April 23, 2010
Trip-cancellation coverage is best for travelers who are spending a lot of money for a nonrefundable itinerary. Routine or short-distance domestic travel probably doesn't justify the expense.

The Great Dividend-Tax Mystery - WSJ - April 23, 2010
Next year, what will the top tax rate on dividends be? Some experts cite a 20% figure, while others say 39.6%, and still others talk about a tripling of the current 15% rate.

Making Sense of the New Premium Card Offers - WSJ - April 23, 2010
Banks are rolling out "premium"cards that promise luxe new perks—in exchange for higher annual fees. Are they worth it?

A Buy Signal for Commodities - WSJ - April 23, 2010
Why periods of rising rates may be the best time for investors to dive in.

The Consumer-Lending Outlook Brightens - WSJ - April 23, 2010
Citigroup suggested its worst losses from bad loans may be past. Plus, New- and existing-home sales saw better-than-expected jumps in March, and more.

Goldman-deal gamblers knew the score - MSN Money - April 23, 2010
The players on both sides of the trade that the SEC has targeted knew the risks and knew one side was bound to lose. It's far from the worst sin of this mess.

Why your paycheck might be going up - MSN Money - April 23, 2010
You may not be feeling it yet, but the recovery is starting to produce jobs and raise wages. But there's a hitch: A lot of people are going to be left out.

10 stocks to watch in the next week - MSN Money - April 23, 2010
The nation's biggest source of student loans appears on an MSN Money list of recommended stocks. Here are StockScouter's best investment ideas.

Could you be fired for bad credit? - MSN Finance - April 23, 2010
In some cases, the answer might be yes. Or you might simply not be offered a job and never know why. If you find that troubling, here's what you can do.

Stocks in the Spotlight Friday - Barron's - April 23, 2010
Amazon.com and Microsoft fell. Schlumberger and Xerox rose.

Picks to Play Trends at Verizon - Barron's - April 23, 2010
Morgan Keegan likes Alcatel-Lucent, CommScope and Ericsson.

How to appeal your tax assessment - MSN Finance - April 22, 2010
Remember when property taxes soared with home prices? Well, now that home prices are sinking, your tax bill should be shrinking, too. If it hasn't, take action.

State Laws and Non-Competes - About.com. - April 22, 2010
Discussion of state legislation involving non-compete agreements.

Families of Wounded Vets to Get More Relief - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 22, 2010
Congress and the Obama administration take steps to help returning veterans.

Stocks for the Global Building Boom - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 22, 2010
These four companies will benefit as the world improves its infrastructure.

Negotiate Almost Anything When Buying a House - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 22, 2010
Ask sellers to add provisions to the contract to sweeten the deal for you.

SEC Could Be Loser in Goldman Fight - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 22, 2010
The agency is taking a big gamble with its own reputation.

A Bear Turns Bullish - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 22, 2010
The manager of Baron Small Cap is buying shares of stocks that should do well as the economy rebounds.

Small Businesses Get a BoostFrom Nonprofit Lenders - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 22, 2010
A program created by Uncle Sam is helping firms that can’t otherwise find credit.

Trouble on the High Seas - CFO - April 21, 2010
Budgets are breaking and shipments are delayed as demand for ocean container transport from Asia outstrips supply.

25 of the finest funds - MSN Money - April 21, 2010
This year's list from Kiplinger again favors funds run by managers with long track records who work for trusted fund families.

Perils of Church-Related Pensions - WSJ - April 21, 2010
Employees and retirees of publisher Augsburg Fortress allege that the company used its connection to the Lutheran church as a legal shield to avoid paying all their pensions.

1 in 4 mortgage defaults may be 'strategic' - MSN Finance - April 21, 2010
Walkaway homeowners are reshaping the housing market -- and the entire economy is changing along with it.

A new way to fix credit report errors - MSN Finance - April 21, 2010
Starting July 1, you can complain directly to a company that put a ding on your reports and force it to investigate. Here's how to do it.     

The Scale Is Tilting Toward the Sellers - Barron's - April 21, 2010
Michael KahnChart resistance levels and other signals suggest that the stock market is ready to turn downward.

Will kids drag you to the poorhouse? - MSN Finance - April 21, 2010
Many parents can't help themselves when providing for their children, especially for college and other major expenses. But some spend their way into bankruptcy.

Three Picks in Managed Care - Barron's - April 21, 2010
Wedbush Securities likes Amerigroup, Health Net and Centene.

AICPA: America is split between savers and non-savers - Accounting Web - April 21, 2010
Although 54 percent of adult Americans say they've not been able to save money over the last 12 months, a surprisingly large number have been able to save money in the past year in spite of the country's economic turmoil, according to a survey conducted for the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants by Harris Interactive.read more

Humbling moments: Claims arising from 1031 exchanges - Accounting Web - April 21, 2010
By W. Wesley Marston"Complex problems have simple, easy to understand, wrong answers." - H.L. MenckenI once had a 14-hour exam on IRC §1031. The professor awarded one A, and told the student recipient that he did not deserve it. Such was my introduction to this section of the code. Unfortunately, I still have to deal with like-kind exchange issues due to claims involving §1031.read more

Super Bowl vs. state of Michigan: A ball of confusion - Accounting Web - April 21, 2010
In 2006, the city of Detroit hosted Super Bowl XL. Naturally, an event of that magnitude generated hefty expenses, including a payroll. More than four years after the big game, the state of Michigan has filed liens against the Super Bowl Host Committee, charging that the committee failed to pay payroll taxes, including withholding and unemployment insurance taxes, to the tune of nearly a quarter million dollars.Here are the details:read more

Greek Tragedy Won't Be the Last - Barron's - April 21, 2010
Randall W. ForsythAs the end game approaches, moral hazard increases while government debt poses new threats.

Accumulated Depreciation - About.com. - April 21, 2010
Definition of accumulated depreciation

The Case for Travel Insurance - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 21, 2010
You might want to pack a policy for your big-ticket vacation.

Why Obama Will Pick Moderate For Supreme Court Vacancy - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 21, 2010
The nominee will be liberal but not an ideological flamethrower.

Tax Break for Firms Now Hiring - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 21, 2010
Here’s what employers need to know to take advantage of the new jobs bill.

A Tax on Health Benefits - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 21, 2010
Find out how employee health benefits will be taxed and how employees will be affected.

Reaching for High Yields Can Be Dangerous - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 21, 2010
Buying junk bonds and long-term funds in today’s market could lead to big losses. Consider municipal bonds instead.

Everyone Needs Bonds - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 21, 2010
They offer a smoother ride to your investing goals -- and provide a little insurance.

Betting Against Goldman - WSJ - April 20, 2010
The SEC's suit against Goldman won't likely be the last of its kind. So should you bail out of big banking stocks while you can? Maybe. But if you're bearish on banks, writes Brett Arends, you're basically betting against the house.

Internal Audit's IT Blues - CFO - April 20, 2010
The perils and pitfalls of automation are proving difficult for company watchdogs to keep pace with.

How Do You Spell (Pension) Relief? - CFO - April 20, 2010
The Obama Administration weighs in on pension relief, but controversial restrictions remain.

Health care reform: How we'll pay - MSN Finance - April 20, 2010
Here are 13 changes in the massive overhaul that could affect your tax bill, for better or worse.

IRS contacting small businesses about health care tax credit - Accounting Web - April 20, 2010
The Internal Revenue Service this week began mailing postcards to more than four million small businesses and tax-exempt organizations to make them aware of the benefits of the recently-enacted small business health care tax credit.read more

Consider Plowing Into Fertilizers - Barron's - April 20, 2010
Credit Suisse likes Potash Corp. of Saskatchewan and Agrium.

'Do-gooder' funds doing well - MSN Money - April 20, 2010
A new generation of fund managers sees social screens not as a hindrance but as a successful investing strategy. Mixing morality with stock picking can have its benefits.

Higher Prices Won't Deter Apparel Shoppers - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 20, 2010
Retailers -- except at the bottom end -- can look forward to brighter prospects.

Big Pharma at a Discount - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 20, 2010
These five drug stocks should produce healthy returns.

5 Ways to Avoid Overspending on Wedding Gifts - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 20, 2010
Don't blow your budget by buying your friends pricey presents you can't really afford.

Stack Up Your Income Against Obama's - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 20, 2010
Where do you rank as a taxpayer? How much of the tax burden do you bear?

Housing Crawling Back - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 20, 2010
It looks like sales, starts have found a bottom -- but the market's far from healthy.

The Hunt for Dividends - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 20, 2010
We found 15 companies that are committed to sharing the wealth with stockholders.

In Search of the New - CFO - April 19, 2010
Most CFOs say innovation is a top priority. How can they make their efforts pay?

Supreme Court Rules on Investment Adviser Fees - CFO - April 19, 2010
The high court reaches back 70 years to reject two lower court rulings on investment adviser compensation.

State Environmental Laws: At your Disposal - CFO - April 19, 2010
More than 30 states manufacturers or importers are responsible for managing the disposal of the products they make or sell.

SEC probing other banks' mortgage deals - MSN Money - April 19, 2010
Fraud charges against Goldman Sachs are casting a pall over Wall Street, as regulators examine other subprime-backed securities that may have been designed to lose value.

Cut the lawyer out of your will - MSN Finance - April 19, 2010
Services and preset forms are available -- and affordable -- for simple plans you can set up yourself. But complex estate issues may require a pro.           

Many small to mid-sized companies expect economy to recover in 2010 - Accounting Web - April 19, 2010
Although many companies and individuals still struggle with recession-related challenges, a majority of executives believe the downturn will reverse its course within the year, according to a recent survey conducted by Accountants International(AI), a Burlingame, CA-based provider of accounting and finance staffing and recruitment.read more

Networking trends in a recovering economy - Accounting Web - April 19, 2010
Companies nationwide reduced their workforce or instituted hiring freezes in accounting and finance, as well as in operations during the past year in response to the economic downturn, according to Accountants International's(AI) "2010 Compensation, Benefits and Workplace Trends Guide."read more

Strongest Earnings in the Internet Sector - Barron's - April 19, 2010
Jefferies says Google's results bode well for the group.

CME Group Gets a Bounce - Barron's - April 19, 2010
Shares of the futures exchange rose after a positive Barron's story.

What comes first, tax woes or competing on Dancing with the Stars? - Accounting Web - April 19, 2010
Pamela Anderson shares something in common with a few of her fellow celebrity contestants on Dancing with the Stars (DWTS). At least three others also have made headlines for being in hot water with the tax authorities. That raises an interesting question. Is this a coincidence, or do they go on DWTS to earn money to pay their taxes?read more

The downside of outsourcing - Accounting Web - April 19, 2010
There are many arguments for and against outsourcing. But if you ask Anna Douglas, director of finance and treasurer for the Center for Applied Linguistics(CAL) in Washington, D.C., chances are she will try to steer you awayfrom the idea.read more

Why you may be in disaster denial - MSN Finance - April 19, 2010
Blame our biology: Humans excel at ignoring the risk of earthquakes and other catastrophes. That's a reason most Californians don't buy quake insurance.

Operation Brass Tax: Sting nets 26 tax preparers - Accounting Web - April 19, 2010
Hard working CPAs and tax preparers all over the country anticipate April 16th with all the excitement of a child headed for Disneyland. But now that tax season is finally over, certain tax preparers will not be celebrating their freedom with tropical drinks on sandy beaches.Instead, some will be viewing life from behind bars because of a recent sting known as Operation Brass Tax, which netted 26 tax preparers.read more

5 solid growth stocks priced right - MSN Money - April 19, 2010
As the global recovery gains steam, don't expect to find as many bargains. But you can still pick up reasonably priced stocks of some well-positioned companies.

Tax Return Extension Pro/Con - About.com. - April 18, 2010
Benefits and drawbacks to filing a business tax return extension

How to Play the Bubbles Like Pros - WSJ - April 17, 2010
With the markets more volatile, and signs of new real-estate bubbles emerging in places like China and Australia, how should investors deal with the new environment?

Home Remodels for Today's Market - WSJ - April 17, 2010
These days, homeowners are seeking energy-efficiency upgrades and low-cost cosmetic improvements that make a home more comfortable and appealing.

An Alternative to Foreclosure - WSJ - April 17, 2010
An alternative to foreclosure is a "deed in lieu of foreclosure"agreement, which allows homeowners to voluntarily turn over the deed to their house to the lender.

Yes, You Can Do It! - WSJ - April 17, 2010
Follow figure skater Evan Lysacek's example of never giving up on your dream, despite what others might say.

Cobra Subsidy Goes On - WSJ - April 17, 2010
Despite all the commotion over the health-care legislation, some unemployed people say they're more worried about what will happen to their group health insurance under Cobra.

IRS on Demutualization - WSJ - April 17, 2010
Tom Herman answers a reader's question about the IRS's position on demutualization.

Lazard Owners Look for Their Payoff - WSJ - April 17, 2010
Wall Street has a pay problem, and the situation is particularly bad at Lazard.

2010 Top 100 Financial Advisors - Barron's - April 17, 2010
Words of wisdom from Morgan Stanley's Brian Pfeifler, this year's No. 1, and four other advisors.

Wall Street's Next Big Things - Barron's - April 17, 2010
The long-awaited shift to large-caps might not be imminent, but it will come, once investors start seeking safety. Sayonara, small fry!

The Virtues of Slow and Sturdy - Barron's - April 17, 2010
Bank of New York Mellon and State Street have dominant franchises with better-than-average growth prospects. Higher rates? Yes, please!

An Exchange's Embarrassment of Riches - Barron's - April 17, 2010
Financial-reform legislation would be a boon for CME Group. What the world's largest futures market is doing to keep competitors at bay.

My, What a Nice Stash of Cash - Barron's - April 17, 2010
Goodyear and Whirlpool are among the many companies that boosted cash flow through accounting maneuvers. For some, it may backfire.

Still Under Construction - Barron's - April 17, 2010
The shape of the recovery: VE for Very Encouraging.

Goldman and Gravity Sink Stocks Friday - Barron's - April 17, 2010
Indexes' long leg up gets kneecapped by Goldman news.

Sad Sachs? - Barron's - April 17, 2010
Alan AbelsonThe SEC charges Goldman with defrauding investors. Fred Hickey plugs Microsoft.

5 new rules for solid credit scores - MSN Finance - April 9, 2010
Remember those long-standing guidelines like closing old credit card accounts, never maxing out cards and asking for lower interest rates? Well, you can forget them now.

SEC opens broad inquiry into accounting-for-repurchase transactions - Accounting Web - April 9, 2010
Chief financial officers from 24 financial institutions received a Dear CFO letter from the chief accountant of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) last week asking for detailed information about their accounting-for-repurchase agreements classified as sales, and their disclosures of these arrangements.read more

Tax Errors, Missed Payments - About.com. - April 9, 2010
Some suggestions for dealing with errors, missed tax payments or failure to file a tax return.

Auditing Your Auditor - CFO - April 2, 2010
After nearly a decade of turmoil, companies have gained the advantage in negotiating with their auditors.

Accounting-Related Lawsuits Fall - CFO - April 2, 2010
Reflecting a decline, just over a third of securities suits filed last year mentioned accounting issues, according to PricewaterhouseCoopers.

Cash-back credit cards: Unrewarding? - MSN Finance - April 2, 2010
As card issuers raise interest rates in return for giving out rewards, that cash you're getting back may not be getting you ahead.

Intel Tops AMD in Server Microprocessors - Barron's - April 2, 2010
Intel will continue to dominate the market, says J.P. Morgan.

Rising European Online Trends - Barron's - April 2, 2010
Jefferies cites multichannel marketing and social and mobile commerce.

Tax Collections: The Basics and Beyond - Accounting Web - April 2, 2010
My purpose in writing this article is not to debate the constitutionality of the tax laws or the legitimacy of the Internal Revenue Code (IRC).1 Many individuals and groups have chosen to protest and to litigate the validity of tax laws over the years. This is not the place. I begin this article with a set of clear assumptions. I assume the 16th amendment to the U.S. Constitution allowing for direct taxation of individuals was validly ratified. I assume the IRC is valid law. All the federal courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court, have upheld these assumptions.read more

Obama as a Centrist. Really - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 2, 2010
The president is a pragmatist. That's why he's assailed from both sides.

Tips to Help You File an Insurance Claim - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 2, 2010
Getting organized will help the process go smoothly.

Fundamental Lessons in Personal Finance - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 2, 2010
It's Financial Literacy Month -- time to boost your knowledge of money management.

What Health Reform Means for FSAs and HSAs - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 2, 2010
New limits on flexible spending accounts will make health savings accounts more attractive.

Obama’s Offshore Drilling Plan: How Much Will It Help? - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 2, 2010
The president says it’s part of a bigger plan to wean the U.S. off of foreign oil.

Don't Fall for the Halo - Kiplinger Personal Finance - April 2, 2010
To pick a good adviser, try to eliminate as many personal biases as you can.

Top of the top: 30 esteemed CEOs - MSN Money - April 2, 2010
This year's list from Barron's features executives who earned investors' trust by keeping their companies safe and strong during the financial crisis.

Did You Start a Business in 2009? You Can Deduct Start-up Costs - About.com - April 2, 2010


April 15 - Federal Income Taxes Due and Payable - Which Form to Use? - About.com - April 2, 2010


"We Fail Fast, Learn, and Move On." - CFO - April 1, 2010
This CFO believes in continuous education and in "getting close to the widgets." An interview with Steven Neil, CFO of Diamond Foods Inc.

A Ticket to Preview Transport Earnings - Barron's - February 19, 2010
Maxim Group muses over five firms set to report next week.

Can the Market Bulls Put On Some Muscle? - Barron's - February 19, 2010
Michael KahnThe stock market is back at a key resistance level after rising on vapors. But does it have the strength to break through to the upside?

A Debt Deferred - CFO - February 19, 2010
Revitalized capital markets and forgiving lenders helped overleveraged companies fend off bankruptcy in 2009. Is this the year the bill comes due?

Best Buys in Offshore Manufacturing - CFO - February 19, 2010
A new study ranks the lowest-cost offshore locations for manufacturing – and finds the top spot is right next door.

The Accounting Hall of Fame . . . Have you got the EI to qualify? - Accounting Web - February 19, 2010
By Edi Osborne, CEO Mentor Plus read more

Pennsylvania CPAs bring humor to accounting profession with YouTube videos - Accounting Web - February 19, 2010
Humor can be a great way to get a conversation started. Just ask the Pennsylvania Institute of CPAs (PICPA) who recently launched several amusing promotional videos aimed to tweak the image of accountants and the profession. read more

10 new tax savings on 2009 Form 1040 - Accounting Web - February 19, 2010
"The payoff for grasping new tax breaks can be substantial on the 2009 version of Form 1040," said Bob D. Scharin, senior tax analyst for the Tax & Accounting business of Thomson Reuters. "Yet, you will miss out on the tax savings if you rely on last year's return as a template for this year's filing." read more

The Scams of 2009 - Kiplinger Personal Finance - February 19, 2010
The recession and housing crisis inspired many schemes over the past year.

5 Sites That Help You Save Money - Kiplinger Personal Finance - February 19, 2010
Lower your insurance rates, get service providers to compete for your business, find free stuff and more.

New Credit, New Paperwork - Kiplinger Personal Finance - February 19, 2010
If you don’t claim the Making Work Pay Credit on your tax return, you lose it.

New Security Rules for Ocean and Air Cargo - Kiplinger Personal Finance - February 19, 2010
Here’s what to keep in mind as government inspectors step up vigilance.

Investing Insights From a Top Fund Manager - Kiplinger Personal Finance - February 19, 2010
Morningstar's 2009 manager of the year, Bruce Berkowitz, says that his best investments have been those shunned by the crowd.

Emerging Markets Picks - Kiplinger Personal Finance - February 19, 2010
Cash in by investing in companies that benefit from rising demand in their own domestic markets.

What You Need to Know About Social Security - Kiplinger Personal Finance - February 19, 2010
Five ways to make sure you get the biggest possible check.

How to Collect from Customers - About.com. - February 19, 2010
Monitoring receivables, billing, and collections and setting up processes is a key to keeping your business profitable. Here is the way to set up this system

Sweet Surrender - CFO - February 12, 2010
New GM CFO Chris Liddell gets paid coming and going.

Middle-Market Deals: All Systems Go - CFO - February 12, 2010
It could be a boom year for midsized M&A, with conditions significantly improved since last fall.

12 traps of Roth IRA conversions - MSN Finance - February 12, 2010
Should you rethink that switch to a Roth? At least you should understand the potential pitfalls, because a hasty move could wind up costing you a lot of dough.

Check up on your mortgage broker - MSN Finance - February 12, 2010
A new, free Web site lets potential homebuyers look up a loan originator to learn whether any actions have been taken against him or her in the past decade.

The Wide World of Dividend Stocks - Barron's - February 12, 2010
For income-starved investors, foreign companies with solid cash payouts are a good bet.

Small Banks' Big Problem: Trust-Preferreds - WSJ - February 12, 2010
Many smaller lenders depended on trust preferred securities to augment capital, but now they're proving a hindrance to shoring up banks teetering on the brink of failure.

Georgia Loosens Bank Lending Limits - WSJ - February 12, 2010
The No. 1 state in bank failures is making it easier for survivors to deepen their exposure to a single borrower, a move intended to stabilize financial institutions but which critics say could lead to further failures.

Politics Dents Sallie Mae's Value - WSJ - February 12, 2010
Politics on Capitol Hill has dented Sallie Mae's image despite an improving balance sheet at the big U.S. student-loan company.

Americans Line Up for a Piece of Buffett - WSJ - February 12, 2010
Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway is set to be added to the S&P 500-stock index. The change will mean millions of Americans will for the first time own a piece of the country's most famous investor.

Accountants give their clients Chinese fortune cookies - Accounting Web - February 12, 2010
Tax time is here. So is Chinese New Year! Is it fate? You decide! The Year of the Tiger begins on February 14. Steven West, a writer from Farmington Hills, MI, offers these ten witty fortune cookie sayings from the mouths of accountants:1. Don't be upset, but you are in deep debt.2. Your favorite uncle is planning to visit you this year. (Yep, it's your Uncle Sam.)3. Taking a deduction for the care and maintenance of your fish tank is not likely to succeed.read more

The answer to your company’s recession is in a cubicle down the hall - Accounting Web - February 12, 2010
By Todd Wilms read more

Taxes and Home-Sale Losses - Kiplinger Personal Finance - February 12, 2010
If you sell a house that was converted to rental property at a loss, you might qualify for a tax deduction.

Investing Classes Worth the Money - Kiplinger Personal Finance - February 12, 2010
Don't waste your time in free seminars. You'll learn more at these conferences.

How to Finance a Roth Conversion - Kiplinger Personal Finance - February 12, 2010
Making the switch to a Roth makes sense for some, and there are plenty of ways to pay the tax bill.

4 dividend plays in emerging markets - MSN Money - February 12, 2010
Just the idea of emerging-market dividend stocks might seem strange to you. But they can indeed be found in the growing markets of China, the Philippines, Indonesia and elsewhere.

How to Read a Business Contract - About.com - February 12, 2010
A former student told me a story of how he was taken advantage of by a doctor for whom he was working as an independent contractor.  The problem was how his contractor income was determined, and it related to "overhead"and when it was calculated.  His problem made me realize that how you read a business contract can mean the difference betweenI have read many contracts, both for myself over my long business life, and for students and clients.  I always tell people I am not reading them as an attorney, but as a lay person who wants to have as complete an understanding of the contract as possible.  Over the years, I have developed some guidelines for reading business contracts, to protect both parties and to avoid the difficulties that come with poorly worded contracts.First, Agree on DefinitionsIn the case above, a lot of the difficulty came from an unclear definition of "overhead."  What does it include? How is it calculated?  If the parties had agreed on this definition from the start, they could have made some changes to make the payments more equitable, or given my friend a better picture of how his income would be calculated.Don't Assume - Ask for ClarificationAssumptions are really the most difficult part of any contract.  You read a contract that includes a section on how the value of property is determined.  Even if you think you know what has been written, ask for an example, or ask a question like, "Just to clarify, I think this means X.  What do you think it means?"  Don't worry about appearing dumb or difficult; better to clarify now than find out later you and the other party were thinking of two different meanings.Ask "What is Missing?"This part is tricky; it is difficult to know what should be in a contract but isn't.  In employment contracts, I usually see a section about how the employer can terminate the contract and what notice must be given.  But sometimes there is no language about how the employee can terminate the contract and what notice must be given.  In one case, I was told, 'the employee can't terminate the contract."  Really?!?I have also seen some contracts that had no effective date or which did not completely identify the parties.  Take a look at my Employment Contract Termsarticle for an example of the sections in a typical contract.  If you don't see something that should be in the contract, make sure it gets in.Read "Boilerplate"Carefully and Don't Be Afraid to Change ItBoilerplate is standard language that is usually prepared by an attorney to protect a client and which is usually difficult to read.  I have been told many times, "This is our standard language.  It cannot be changed."  Not true.  In a contract, everything is negotiable, even "standard"language, whatever that means.  Read those long boilerplate sections, even if your eyes cross and you start to nod off.  Ask that the section be simplified or that it be shortened, if you feel it is possible.  Don't hesitate to make changes that clarify or to your advantage.  I have known some business owners to completely re-write boilerplate sections; it makes the lawyers crazy, but it clarifies, and that is more important.Finally, Get a Second OpinionIf you are reading a contract prepared by the other party, don't rely on yourself or other non-attorneys to read the contract.  Take it to an attorney who knows the law in your state.  Don't let the attorney re-write it (they love to do that!), just to give you an opinion on what needs to be changed.  Then take the list of changes back to the table and negotiate; let the other party pay for the changes.Reading contracts carefully is one of those things you may do a lot or seldom, but if you get into the habit of reading with these tips in mind, it may save you costly legal battles and sleepless nights.For More InformationWhat Makes a Contract Valid (Enforceable by a Court)?How to Read a Business Contractoriginally appeared on About.com Business Law / Taxes: U.S.on Friday, February 12th, 2010 at 05:57:23.Permalink| Comment| Email this

Why You MUST Keep Good Records for Your LLC - About.com - February 12, 2010
One of the reasons many people start a limited liability company (LLC) is to avoid the paperwork required of a corporation - annual meetings, amendments, board records, etc.  But being an LLC is not a free ride, as far as records go.  Many states require limited liability companies to keep specific records, and failure to do so can cause you to put your limited liability status at risk.Piercing the (Corporate) LLC VeilThere is a concept in corporate law called "piercing the corporate veil,"which refers to the ability of a court to personally charge corporate executives with liability for their actions on behalf of the corporation, including liability for corporate debts.  Within the last few years courts have also held LLC members liable for the debts of the LLC.  Starting with a case in Utah in 1997, (Ditty v. CheckRite), courts have found that piercing the corporate veil is appropriate in the context of LLCs, citing factors such as "failure to respect corporate formalities."* Tricia Davis of the Bernstein Law Firm (Pittsburgh, PA)  warns,  "...courts all over the country have begun to apply the traditional corporate veil piercing to LLCs to create personal liability on the members for debts of the LLC."And they are using poor record keeping to apply this rule.  So keeping good records for your LLC isn't just good, it is absolutely necessary.What LLC Records Must Be Kept?I looked through record keeping requirements of many states, and created a list of the most common:Names and addresses of all members and of all managers.A copy of the Articles or Organization and all amendments (Certificate of Organization in some states)Federal, state, and local tax returns, for up to 6 years (this was the longest time)A copy of the LLC Operating Agreement and all amendmentsCopies of LLC financial statements for up to 6 yearsCopies of all LLC books and records for up to 4 yearsA record of all Member capital contributions, agreements to contribute capital, and dissolution eventsRecords of all proceedings of Members for the past 3 yearsA copy of all agreements and contracts of the LLCReports to Members for the last 3 yearsThese records should be kept in the office of the Registered Agent.  Much of this list you are probably already doing, but if not, get busy and put them together.  Many LLCs get their Articles of Organization filed and forget to have an Operating Agreement signed.  Even a single-member LLC needs an operating agreement, which should include a clause stipulating who will manage the LLC if the Member is unable to do so.*Source: Tricia Davis, Bernstein Law Firm(PDF)For More InformationAll About LLC'sLLC Formation Documents (Articles of Organization, Operating Agreement)Why You MUST Keep Good Records for Your LLCoriginally appeared on About.com Business Law / Taxes: U.S.on Thursday, February 11th, 2010 at 06:44:09.Permalink| Comment| Email this

CFOs Head to the IASB - CFO - February 8, 2010
Finance chiefs from Hannover Re and FirstRand Banking are joining the standard-setting board.

More States Seeking "Amazon Tax" Sales Tax Laws - About.com - February 8, 2010
With the recession continuing and state revenues dropping, more and more states are looking for ways to increase income.  Many are getting on the "Amazon tax"bandwagon, reports SalesTaxBuzz. Vermont, Mississippi, Virginia, New Hampshire, New  Mexico, and Colorado are considering joining New York, North Carolina, and Rhode Island to impose sales taxes on Internet transactions generated through associates.What is the "Amazon Tax?"As I reported in June 2009, New York was the first state to attempt to impose sales taxes on remote sales (over the Internet).  Sales taxes are imposed on businesses which have a presence (called a "nexus") in a state.  For example, if you have a retail store in Iowa and a warehouse in Illinois, you must charge sales tax in both states because you have a nexus in each state.  But in the past, online sales have not been taxed because there has been no way to find a nexus.Now, the states have become more creative, stating that if a company has an agreement with an affiliate or associate who is  resident of a state for "commissions or other considerations"to "indirectly or directly"refer potential customers to the company, this constitutes a nexus. It's called the "Amazon tax"because it has been used against the Amazon Associates program, in which Amazon allows individuals and other businesses to sell through its site.  So, if a bookstore in New York is an Amazon Associate, New York wants to impose sales tax on all of that bookstore's online sales to New York residents through Amazon. Other retailers, like Blue Nile and Overstock, have also been affected by these new laws.How Does This Affect Your Online Business?If you have a small online company, these sales tax laws probably won't affect you; some states have imposed thresholds of $10,000 before they start looking at online sales. If you are an associate or affiliate of a larger company, you may already have been affected.  Amazon, for example, has threatened to pull its New York Associates out and Overstockis looking at doing the same for states like Colorado, which might enact a law soon. If you sell through one of these companies, you have likely heard about this already.What is the Status of State "Amazon Tax"Laws?Many of these states are in process, so it is difficult to tell where these laws might be now, or whether they will continue through the legislative process.  Here is what I have as of today (with bill numbers so you can track them in your state)  from SalesTaxBuzz:The Vermont bill, H. 661, would be effective July. It has a $10,000 threshold.The Mississippi bill, S.B. 2927, has no threshold; it didn't make it out of committee.The Virginia bill, S.B. 660, has a $10,000 threshold.The New Mexico bill, H.B. 50, has been tabled.The Colorado bill, H.B. 1193, with a $10,000 threshold, passed the House on Feb. 3. I will keep you posted, or you can check on the progress of the law in your state for updates.More States Seeking "Amazon Tax" Sales Tax Lawsoriginally appeared on About.com Business Law / Taxes: U.S.on Monday, February 8th, 2010 at 06:45:11.Permalink| Comment| Email this

The Case for Insiders - CFO - January 29, 2010
Good news for ambitious CFOs: companies that promote insiders to CEO produce better returns than those that recruit outsiders.

Debit cards get more rewarding - MSN Finance - January 29, 2010
As more consumers switch from credit to debit, debit card issuers and retailers are offering new and better incentives for card users.

Has a New Price War Broken Out in Online Trading? - Barron's - January 29, 2010
Analysts argue that firms like Schwab are lowering commissions to remain competitive while building up assets.

Stocks Leveraged to Apple's IPad - Barron's - January 29, 2010
Credit Suisse says Broadcom, Cypress Semi and others could benefit.

The Art World's Gordon Gekko - WSJ - January 29, 2010
Asher Edelman, a former corporate raider, is shaking up the art market with brash tactics and big plans.

What the iPad Means for Your Wallet - WSJ - January 29, 2010
Apple's new handheld computer is the talk of the moment. But if we can hack our way through the hype, what are the financial implications of this latest techno marvel—for consumers and for investors?

Swiss government bows to court ruling: Will review UBS tax agreement - Accounting Web - January 29, 2010
 The Swiss government announced this week that it will respect a Swiss court decision last week that declared parts of a deal reached in August with the United States illegal under Swiss law and would reopen talks with the United States. The agreement, which was designed to end proceedings by the U.S. Justice Department against the Swiss bank UBS, required the Swiss government to hand over data to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) on 4,450 UBS clients suspected of hiding bank accounts.read more

Texas CPAs help Haiti victims while fostering client loyalty - Accounting Web - January 29, 2010
A Texas accounting firm and its clients are discovering that a wall calendar with beautiful photographs, designed to market the firm's name and promote client loyalty, can change the lives of earthquake victims in Haiti.read more

Cashing in on tragedy: How not be scammed when donating to Haitian relief efforts - Accounting Web - January 29, 2010
Less than 24 hours after an earthquake devastated Haiti, scammers were trying to profit from the tragedy with everything from emails and web sites asking for donations to phone call solicitations. read more

IRS announces qualified disaster treatment for Haiti earthquake - Accounting Web - January 29, 2010
The Internal Revenue Service has issued guidancethat designates the earthquake in Haiti in January 2010 as a qualified disaster for federal tax purposes. The guidance allows recipients of qualified disaster relief payments to exclude those payments from income on their tax returns. Also, the guidance allows employer-sponsored private foundations to assist victims in areas affected by the January 2010 earthquake in Haiti without affecting their tax-exempt status.read more

Supreme Court opens floodgates for political spending - Accounting Web - January 29, 2010
 On January 21, the U. S. Supreme Court held that sections of federal law barring corporations, unions, and other groups from spending money to espouse their views about public issues and candidates for office were unconstitutional restrictions on First Amendment protected free speech, stating that: "If the First Amendment has any force, it prohibits Congress from fining or jailing citizens, or associations of citizens, for simply engaging in political speech."read more

FAQs on the Death of the Estate Tax - Kiplinger Personal Finance - January 29, 2010
Before you dance on the grave of the “death tax,” remember the immortal words of Mark Twain: . We expect the federal estate tax to be resurrected retroactively. But in the meantime, confusion will surely reign.

How to Drive Home a Bargain - Kiplinger Personal Finance - January 29, 2010
Follow these tips to get the best deal on a 2010 car.

Taking Retirement Contributions To the Max - Kiplinger Personal Finance - January 29, 2010
Kiplinger editorial director Kevin McCormally and fellow tax experts Peter Blank and Mary Beth Franklin tackle your most pressing tax challenges

Smart Strategies to Pick Mutual Funds - Kiplinger Personal Finance - January 29, 2010
Using past performance alone often leads to a weak portfolio. Here are better ways to choose winners.

The Fed: Lying Low on Interest Rates - Kiplinger Personal Finance - January 29, 2010
In the face of rising congressional criticism, the Federal Reserve will happily take a pass on the opportunity to raise interest rates.

Tax-Free Money for Big Medical Expenses - Kiplinger Personal Finance - January 29, 2010
Some people may be able to combine 2009 flexible-spending account money with 2010 money to cover expensive procedures.

What if consumer demand is dead? - MSN Money - January 29, 2010
It's not a popular idea right now as pundits predict a full economic recovery. But history and current trends suggest a different possibility that investors should prepare for.

Get ready for the go-nowhere market - MSN Money - January 29, 2010
Data suggest that for the next year or so, the market may shuffle sideways or slowly down a few percentage points. Yet some sectors are likely to continue to prosper.

Simple Small Business - Simple Taxes - About.com - January 29, 2010
Most small business owners are "solo-preneurs"- working alone, many at home, most with no employees or only a few contract workers (like a bookkeeper).  If this sounds like you, maybe the thought of preparing taxes for your business is scary.  But it doesn't have to be.  A simple business means a simple tax return.  Today I will give you the basics of preparing a tax return for your simple small business:What Type of Business Am I?If you don't know, that probably means you have not set up a specific business structure, so you are a sole proprietor.  The "sole prop"is the simplest business form, both to start and to operate.  And to pay taxes.How Do I Pay Business Taxes?As a sole proprietor, you pay business taxes by completing a Schedule C, including your business income and expenses.  If you have done a 1040 before, you know you have Schedule A - Deductions, and Schedule B - Interest and Dividends.  Schedule C is just another schedule.  The total profit from your Schedule C is included with your other income, exemptions, and deductions on your personal income tax (1040) form.An Example:Let's say your business has a loss of $1,300 for 2009, because your business income was less than your business expenses.  (Of course, you must be able to document all those expenses and show that they were business -related.)  This loss goes on Line 12 of your 1040, and it can reduce your adjusted gross income and, hence, your taxes. If that $1,300 were a business profit, you would have to pay tax on the profit, along with other income.What Business Expenses Can I Deduct?You can reduce your profit by deducting legitimate business expenses, like office supplies, phone, rent, legal and professional, and other common business expenses. If you work from home, you can claim a deduction on your home office space expenses, as long as the office  is used "regularly and exclusively"for business purposes.What Else?That's about it - you just need to keep track of your business income and expenses and record them on Schedule C.What About Self-Employment Taxes?Yes, you must pay self-employment tax (for Social Security and Medicare) on the profit from your business.  This tax is calculated on Schedule SC as part of your personal tax return, and the amount of the tax is added to your income tax amount and must be paid at the same time.Do I Need a Tax Preparer? It depends on your comfort level and the complexity of your business.  For a simple business, you might be able to use one of the top tax software programs.  I am using one of the free versions to prepare my sister's Schedule C, and I am finding it pretty easy to use and complete.Or you may not want to do it yourself, and turn it over to a tax preparer.  It's up to you.  Either way, be sure to get competent legal and tax advicebefore you file your return, to make sure you are not missing something important.For More InformationBusiness Taxes Made Simple for the Self-EmployedSimple Small Business - Simple Taxesoriginally appeared on About.com Business Law / Taxes: U.S.on Friday, January 29th, 2010 at 05:14:21.Permalink| Comment| Email this

Not All Index Funds Hit Mark - WSJ - January 25, 2010
True believers in index funds are eyeing a problem churned up during the market's turbulent passage over the past two years—tracking error.

W-2s and 1099s - Did You Distribute Them Yet? - About.com - January 25, 2010
Only a few days left!  Just a reminder that February 1 is the deadline for distributing 2009 Annual Wage and Tax forms - W-2s to employees and 1099-MISC to independent contractors.  If you haven't already prepared these forms, now is the time to get going on them.Here are some articles to help you prepare these documents:How to Prepare W-2 Wage and Tax Reports for EmployeesPreparing Form 1099-MISC for Independent ContractorsShould I Use a W-2 or a 1099-MISC? Filing with Social Security in FebruaryAlso remember that these forms, along with transmission forms (W-3 and 1096) must be filed with the Social Security Administration by the end of February. The IRS reminds you that if you have 250 or more forms to file, you must file electronically. Filing electronically is a good idea, even if you don't have that many employees or contractors.For More InformationHow to Use IRS E-File for TaxesPenalties for Late FilingFinally, just in case you need an incentive to get these done, here is some information on late filing penaltiesand penalties for incorrect or incomplete forms, for these wage and tax statements.The penalty for a failure to furnish a W-2 is $50 per statement, no matter when the correct statement is furnished.You may be liable for penalties if you fail to file Form W-3with the SSA (along with W-2s for all employees) by the end of February for the preceding year (March 1 in 2010, for 2008). In addition, you may be penalized if the forms are incorrect, with errors or omissions.For W-3 and 1096 transmittal forms, the amount of penalty is based on when you file. The lowest amount is $15 for returns correctly filed within 30 days of the due date. If your failire to file is intentional, the penalty is at least $100 per form, with no maximum.Another Important Reminder: Using a payroll service provider does not relieve you of the responsibility to ensure that these wage and tax forms are filed correctly and on time. W-2s and 1099s - Did You Distribute Them Yet?originally appeared on About.com Business Law / Taxes: U.S.on Monday, January 25th, 2010 at 06:16:16.Permalink| Comment| Email this

Home-Sale Profit Rules for Widows And Widowers - Kiplinger Personal Finance - January 25, 2010
A sale by year-end could double the amount of profit that is tax-free.

Giving to Haiti? There's a Tax Benefit, Too - Kiplinger Personal Finance - January 25, 2010
Itemizers don’t have to wait until they file their 2010 returns, but some might want to.

The Future Of Economic Forecasting - Forbes - January 19, 2010
How to model irrational behavior in the markets? That's what regulators are trying to sort out.

Doing Business With The Big Boys - Forbes - January 19, 2010
Big companies can put small fry on the map. They can also take them for a ride. Protect yourself.

Obama On Small Business: A Year Later - Forbes - January 19, 2010
Dire predictions ring true. Too bad.

A Precious Capital Source For Small Biz - Forbes - January 19, 2010
Under the U.S. government's EB-5 program, foreign investors are writing checks in exchange for visas.

Health Insurance That Won't Make You Sick - Forbes - January 19, 2010
Getting non-employer-sponsored coverage at a (relatively) fair price is tough. Follow these tips.

Lesser-known QuickBooks shortcuts - Accounting Web - January 19, 2010
By Esther Friedberg Karp, Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisorread more

The biggest IRS headaches that plagued taxpayers in 2009 - Accounting Web - January 19, 2010
Every year the National Taxpayer Advocate  -– Nina E. Olson -- submits a report  to Congress which takes a critical look at the IRS.  It’s her job to identify at least the 20 most serious issues taxpayers face in dealing with the tax agency, and to recommend solutions.read more

Internal Revenue Service: The new health care police - Accounting Web - January 19, 2010
If Congress has its way, once their new health bill is signed, sealed, and delivered, most Americans will be required to have health insurance, and that will bring with it a whole new level of administrative duties. Someone will have to serve as the health care police. So far, it appears those tasks will fall to the IRS.read more

Congress introduces legislation making Haiti contributions deductible for 2009 - Accounting Web - January 19, 2010
House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn and House Republican Whip Eric Cantor along with Ways and Means Committee Chairman Charles B.read more

January Business Tax Calendar - About.com. - January 19, 2010
Business taxes which must be reported and paid in January.

More January Tax Reports, Payments Due - About.com - January 19, 2010
January is a busy month for businesses.  You are trying to get the new year started well, and at the same time you are closing last year and getting ready for tax time.  But don't forget these January payments and reports.  Note that since January 31 is a Sunday, anything due on that date is due on Monday, February 1.Deposits and PaymentsMonthly payroll tax deposit is due on January 15. Federal unemployment (FUTA) deposit is due January 31, if you owe $500 or lessReports DueQuarterly Payroll Tax Report is due January 31 for the 4th Quarter of 2009Annual FUTA Tax Report is also due January 31And Don't ForgetYou must provide annual wage statements to employees (W-2) and independent contractors (1099-MISC) by January 31Quarterly Estimated Tax Payments are also due on January 15Take a look at my January Tax Deposits and Reportsarticle, just to make sure you don't miss anything. The article has links to other articles to help you prepare and pay these taxes.More January Tax Reports, Payments Dueoriginally appeared on About.com Business Law / Taxes: U.S.on Saturday, January 9th, 2010 at 11:00:35.Permalink| Comment| Email this

How to Get a Government Contract with a Local Agency - About.com - January 19, 2010
When you think of "government contracting,"you may think of large federal government entities, but you might want to think closer to home: local agencies.  I found an excellent article from SCORE (the SBA partner that mentors small businesses) which provides information on how to go about finding a client, figuring out their needs, and getting the bid for the work.  The article is titled How to Get Started as a Government Contractor.For More InformationThe SBA has a new online course which provides information on how you can win federal government contracts.The course is automated so you can review specific sections that interest you.Also be sure to read my article on How to Register as a Government Contractor.  While this registration process applies to federal government contracts, you can use it as a guide to see what a local agency might ask.How to Get a Government Contract with a Local Agencyoriginally appeared on About.com Business Law / Taxes: U.S.on Sunday, January 10th, 2010 at 10:47:26.Permalink| Comment| Email this

Are Non-Compete Agreements Dead? - About.com - January 19, 2010
As I have discussed before, there is much bad publicity and just plain wrong mythology surrounding non-compete agreementsin employment contracts and business purchase agreements. Some people say they are illegal; they aren't really, but they are difficult to enforce. In recent years, it has become more difficult to enforce these agreements, and a recent California Supreme Court decision just made it even more difficult. What is true in California may not be true in the rest of the nation, but this decision may have repercussions in other states, so it is worth talking about.The California Supreme Court DecisionIn the case of Edwards v. Arthur Andersen, the California Supreme Court struck down a non-compete clause in an employment agreement, charging that the clause violated section 1660 of California's Business and Professional Code: Section 16600 provides "Except as provided in this chapter, every contract by which anyone is restrained from engaging in a lawful profession, trade or business of any kind is to that extent void."What About Other States Are DoingSome states - Alabama, Colorado, Louisiana, Montana, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota and Texas - limit the use of non-compete agreements saying they constitute restraint of trade. For example, Alabama restricts non-compete agreementsusing similar language as California in its Code:"Every contract by which anyone is restrained from exercising a lawful profession, trade or business of any kind otherwise than is provided by this section is to that extent void."In Colorado, non compete agreements are unenforceableunless they fall into one of four specified exceptions:Any contract for the purchase and sale of a business or the assets of a businessAny contract for the protection of trade secrets. Any contractual provision for recovery of education and training expenses of an employee for a period of less than two years. Executive and management personnel and officers and employees who constitute professional staff to executive and management personnel. t should afford a reasonable protection for and not impose an unreasonable burden upon the employer, the employee or the public.More State Non-Compete LegislationFrom my research, I found legislation in  22 states and Guam restricting non-competes.  This list of states which restrict non-compete agreementswas updated in October 2009, but subsequent legislation may affect the way your state regards non-competes.  If you are considering a contract with a non-compete agreement in it, please be sure to talk to your attorney about the specifics of your state.Disclaimer:This information is presented as a general reference to give you something to discuss with your legal advisor. I am not an attorney nor do I know the details of laws in each state.  Each situation is different and must be considered on its own within the context of state laws and other legal principles.  Please consult an attorney before you sign or prepare any business contract.For More InformationNon-compete Agreements, Non-Solicitation Agreements, and Non-Disclosure AgreementsTypical Employment Agreement TermsImage: Getty ImagesAre Non-Compete Agreements Dead?originally appeared on About.com Business Law / Taxes: U.S.on Monday, January 11th, 2010 at 06:02:38.Permalink| Comment| Email this

Protect Yourself Against Bad Tax Preparers - About.com - January 19, 2010
First, a reminder:No matter what your tax preparer says or does, you (the business owner) are ultimately responsible for the accuracy and timeliness of your tax returns.The IRS will hold you, and only you, accountable.  You cannot say, "my tax preparer gave me bad advice,"and expect the IRS to to forgive you, or to waive fines and penalties.  So, choose your tax preparer carefully.The IRS is concerned about fraudulent tax preparers.  In fact, the IRS Taxpayer Advocate has proposed that tax preparers be licensed and take special classes.  Sounds like a great idea.Specifically, the IRS has proposedRequiring all paid tax return preparers who must sign a federal tax return to register with the IRS and obtain a preparer tax identification number (PTIN). Requiring competency tests for all paid tax return preparers except attorneys, certified public accountants (CPAs) and enrolled agents who are active and in good standing with their respective licensing agencies.Requiring ongoing continuing professional education for all paid tax return preparers except attorneys, CPAs, enrolled agents and others who are already subject to continuing education requirements.Extending the ethical rules found in Treasury Department Circular 230 -- which currently only apply to attorneys, CPAs and enrolled agents who practice before the IRS -- to all paid preparers. The IRS also has some tips to help you in your search for a tax preparer:Be cautious of tax preparers who claim they can obtain larger refunds than other preparers.Avoid preparers who base their fee on a percentage of the refund. Use a reputable tax professional who signs the tax return and provides a copy.Consider whether the individual or firm will be around to answer questions about the preparation of the tax return months, or even years, after the return has been filed.Check the person's credentials. Only attorneys, certified public accountants (CPAs) and enrolled agentscan represent taxpayers before the IRS in all matters, including audits, collection and appeals. Other return preparers may only represent taxpayers for audits of returns they actually prepared.Find out if the preparer is affiliated with a professional organization that provides its members with continuing education and resources and holds them to a code of ethics.Before you decide on a tax preparer:Check credentials.Check with the professional organization (the American Association of CPA's  or the American Bar Association, for example) and see if the person holds an active license and if there have been any sanctions against this individual.Check the IRS website.Search to see if this tax preparer has been disciplined by the IRS.Check references of previous clients.  To avoid getting only friends of the preparer, ask for a list of 20 people so you can select a few at random.Check the Better Business Bureau, to see if there have been complaints filed against this preparer.For More InformationHow to Find a Good Tax Advisor/PreparerHow to Select and Work with Business AdvisorsProtect Yourself Against Bad Tax Preparersoriginally appeared on About.com Business Law / Taxes: U.S.on Tuesday, January 12th, 2010 at 05:49:25.Permalink| Comment| Email this

50 hot stocks to buy in January - MSN Money - January 19, 2010
StockScouter, MSN Money's stock-picking tool, highlights companies with momentum that can be sustained as the economy recovers.

Wall Street, politicians still don't get it - MSN Money - January 19, 2010
The gamblers and the clueless are leading this nation into the abyss. If only we could throw out all of them.

A new world: Where to put your money now - MSN Money - January 19, 2010
Credit-rating downgrades for developed countries and upgrades for emerging markets aren't exactly turning the world upside down, but it's a trend investors shouldn't ignore.

America's vulnerable half-speed recovery - MSN Money - January 19, 2010
Many economists say the US economy will grow by a paltry 2% a year for the next decade. Here's why the road looks so rough.

Senate health care bill: 11 goals - MSN Finance - January 19, 2010
The Senate's version of health care reform is similar to the House's, with key differences involving a public option and -- no kidding -- a hefty tax on indoor tanning services.

3 tax mistakes made every day - MSN Finance - January 19, 2010
You probably don't mean to violate the law or invite hassles with the IRS, but ignoring simple, common-sense guidelines could get you into trouble.

Personal bankruptcy filings rise fast - MSN Finance - January 19, 2010
More people with high income and high education levels are among the 1.4 million Americans who filed for bankruptcy protection last year.

Yes, you will live to be 80 - MSN Finance - January 19, 2010
When you're young, retirement seems an eternity away. But if you don't start saving now, you'll miss out on the money magic that will make a huge difference later.

Health bill may impose 'marriage penalty' - MSN Finance - January 19, 2010
Both the House and Senate plans have higher premium caps for a married couple than an unmarried pair making the same money.

Who's peeking at your paycheck? - MSN Finance - January 19, 2010
Financial companies are no longer content to take your word for how much you make. Income estimates from credit bureaus will soon influence your access to credit.  

What mortgage? Many pay plastic first - MSN Finance - January 19, 2010
A study on bill-paying practices shows struggling Americans are breaking taboos and changing tactics to stay afloat. Some credit quirks are uniquely regional.

Renting to own: Don't get burned - MSN Finance - January 19, 2010
Lease options can help buyers with bad credit get into homes they're not qualified to purchase otherwise. The pitfalls are many, but there are smart ways to avoid them.

Medicare Costs More---for Some - WSJ - January 19, 2010
Some Medicare beneficiaries are finding their 2010 premiums—which they thought would be frozen at 2009 levels—are actually jumping 15%.

Why Investors Keep Fooling Themselves - WSJ - January 19, 2010
In order to earn 6% for clients after inflation, fees and taxes, financial planners need to pick investments that generate 11% or 13% a year before costs. Where will they find such gains?

A Year-End Gift for Home Buyers - Kiplinger Personal Finance - January 18, 2010
No need to wait until tax-filing season to cash in on the home-buyer credit.

4 Critical Money Questions to Ask Before You Get Married - Kiplinger Personal Finance - January 18, 2010
Start your relationship with these questions to make sure you and your partner are financially compatible.

Watch out for Haitian Earthquake Relief Fraud - Kiplinger Personal Finance - January 18, 2010
Follow these tips to ensure that your donations go to a legitimate charity.

Ready to File Your Taxes? The Government Awaits - Kiplinger Personal Finance - January 18, 2010
The IRS begins accepting e-filed tax returns for 2009 today. If you've got a refund due, hop to it.

7 Ways to Check Out a Charity - Kiplinger Personal Finance - January 18, 2010
Make sure you’re donating to a first-rate organization.

Giving Up on Federal Help, E*Trade Turns to Self-Help - CFO - January 18, 2010
CFO Bruce Nolop discusses how the online brokerage firm recapitalized itself without aid from the Troubled Asset Relief Program.

Do Wellness Programs Make Cents? - CFO - January 18, 2010
Employers are investing in ways to contain health-care costs, but few know what they're getting back.

Power Hitters, Industry Switchers - CFO - January 18, 2010
What does it take for CFOs to cross industry lines these days?

Roth IRA Retirement Planning for the Wealthy & Rich - Site Headlines - January 18, 2010
Ever wonder if there is a Roth IRA retirement plan for the wealthy & rich? What is the most important fact that you need to know about a Roth IRA if you are making an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of over $101,000 a year (if single or $169,000/year filing jointly)? You do not even qualify for a Roth IRA! "Why is that?" you say. Well, the answer to that is debatable. My take is that the government has created a truly powerful wealth creation tool in the Roth IRA, but don't really want to share it with the well-to-do. They figure, if you make under $100,000 per year there is a good chance you will be a burden, financial drain, on the government in your twilight years. So to help avoid this future financial burden they allow for a small amount of your wages (Roth IRA contribution limits are $5,000 per year or 6,000 if you are over 50) to be invested tax deferred and income tax free.

Have a Small Business? Access Up to $35,000 Interest-Free from SBA - Site Headlines - January 18, 2010
Since September, the Small Business Administration has been offering the America's Recovery Capital loan program, or ARC, as part of its economic recovery efforts. ARC loans provide an immediate infusion of capital to small businesses to assist with making payments of principal and interest on existing debt. These loans allow borrowers to redirect cash flow from making loan payments to investing in their businesses, to help sustain the business and retain jobs. For example, making loan payments on existing loans with proceeds from an ARC loan can allow a business to focus more funds on core operations, such as buying inventory or making payroll. Loans for up to $35,000 are available.

Two Offshore Drillers With Earnings Upside - Barron's - January 8, 2010
Sterne Agee likes the prospects for Ensco International and Rowan.

Retail Revival Is Real - Barron's - January 8, 2010
Retailers ended the year on a high note, with many reporting better-than-expected results. See which names top our shopping list.

Dragons and Other Fairy Tales - Barron's - January 8, 2010
Randall W. ForsythThe St. Louis Fed warns about inflation even as the FOMC frets both about rising prices and renewed weakness.

Regulators to Banks: Time to Stop Carrying On - Barron's - January 8, 2010
Randall W. ForsythThe Fed and other regulators warn banks about the risk of rising rates. What's up?

Hedge Fund Goes 'Mom &Pop' - WSJ - January 8, 2010
AQR is set to launch its seventh mutual fund, a managed-futures portfolio that seeks to take advantage of trends in commodities, bonds and other markets.

'Carried-Interest' Tax Gains Traction - WSJ - January 8, 2010
The "carried-interest'' tax debate has re-emerged in Congress, auguring higher taxes for private-equity and hedge-fund managers.

The Best Investments for the New Decade - WSJ - January 8, 2010
Those stocks, markets and asset classes that are most out of favor with investors often contain the best bargains. So what are the least-popular investments now?

Dow 36,000? So much for predictions - MSN Money - December 29, 2009
A decade ago, some stock market soothsayers forecast that the 2000s would bring staggering gains. Even more staggering now is how wrong they were.

Community Express Loans - About.com. - December 29, 2009
This article describes the Small Business Administration's Community Express loan program.

New Recovery Act Loan Approvals Start Today - About.com - December 29, 2009
There is some holiday cheer for you if you are considering a business loan, and I have talked with several small business owners who have been trying to get loans and who are pleased that the ARRA Recovery Act loan will be continued.Just in time to give small businesses a holiday "present,"President Obama signed the Department of Defense appropriations bill, which included a continuation of Recovery Act funds for the Small Business Administration.  This means that the reduced fees and higher guarantees (up to 90 percent) will continue, at least through February, or until funding is exhausted.Funds from the re-invigorated program are expected to begin today, December 28. New approvals of loans with the higher guarantee and reduced fees made possible by ARRA are expected to begintoday.  Loan applications from borrowers who chose to be placed in the SBA's Recovery Loan Queue will be funded first, followed by new loan approvals beginning on or before Dec. 28.AnSBA announcement said the DOD Appropriations bill includes "$125 million to continue through Feb. 28, 2010, the enhancements made possible through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) to SBA's two largest loan programs. The SBA estimates the additional funding will support $4.5 billion in small business lending."SBA Director Karen Mills said, "The increased guarantee and reduced fees on SBA loans helped put more than $16.5 billion in the hands of small business owners and brought more than 1,200 lenders back to SBA loan programs. The extension of these programs through February is important to continuing our path toward recovery and will mean thousands more small business owners have access to the credit they need."The two lending programs referred to are the flagship 7(a) programand the 504 loan programfor fixed asset purchases.For more information:Learn about all available SBA loan programsAll about SBA Recovery Act Loans (from the SBA website)New Recovery Act Loan Approvals Start Todayoriginally appeared on About.com Business Law / Taxes: U.S.on Tuesday, December 29th, 2009 at 05:58:46.Permalink| Comment| Email this

Final End-of-Year Tax Checkup - You Still Have Time - About.com - December 29, 2009
Now that the long holiday weekend is over, it's back to business for all of us.  This is your final reminder to review your business for potential tax savings; you only have until the end of business on Thursday to make these decisions.  For example:Should you write off some of those bad debtsto decrease your income?Should you stock up on inventory?How about paying expensesor deferring incomefor the same reason?If you have been thinking about buying equipment or a car/truck for your business, can you make that purchase and accept delivery before Thursday? If so, you may be able to take advantage of special bonus depreciation or Section 179 depreciation deductions.  These might not be available next year.For a complete list to review, read my article onyear-end tax savingsand get going!A reminder:My purpose is to give you general information, not tax or legal advice.  And I don't know your specific business situation. Before you take any of these steps, check with your tax adviser to see if they would help you save on your business taxes.Final End-of-Year Tax Checkup - You Still Have Timeoriginally appeared on About.com Business Law / Taxes: U.S.on Monday, December 28th, 2009 at 08:30:01.Permalink| Comment| Email this

Rea &Associates collects 12 tons of food for the hungry - Accounting Web - December 29, 2009
Ohio families will have more food for the holidays thanks to the efforts of employees at Rea & Associates. Employees of the CPA firm's 11 Ohio offices raised more than 24,000 pounds of food during the annual holiday food drive.read more

They'll Shop if You Chop - CFO - December 29, 2009
See how much you know about consumers' holiday spending habits.

A Question of Balance - CFO - December 29, 2009
The much-maligned 401(k) plan is being beefed up. So are the penalties for failing to manage it well.

Best of 2009: Careers - CFO - December 29, 2009
Finance chiefs had to confront a bevy of new challenges in 2009.

CIT Moves to Protect Its NOLs - CFO - December 29, 2009
As it emerges from bankruptcy, commercial lender CIT uses the tax code to shield its net operating losses from a technical "change of ownership."

This Year, the Rewards Were in the Risks - Barron's - December 29, 2009
Treasury yields rose. Prices plummeted. You call these "securities?"

A Cancer Patient Works the System - WSJ - December 29, 2009
James Mannett's ordeal can provide lessons for all of us about how to defend our own financial interests, even when we're at our most vulnerable.

6 ways to avoid an audit - MSN Finance - December 21, 2009
It may not be due to something you did wrong. It may even be triggered by an IRS error. But there are ways to reduce the chances of getting that dreaded letter.

7 ways your money will never be the same - MSN Money - December 8, 2009
A lot has changed since the recession began, including the roles stocks and bonds play in investors' portfolios. For starters, get used to more cash, catastrophes and regulation.

3 stocks for the coming oil shortage - MSN Money - December 8, 2009
There's oil aplenty in the short term, but the savvy investor will look at the energy crisis that appears to be lurking in the future -- and act accordingly.

End of Year Tax Planning - Write Off Bad Debts - About.com - December 8, 2009
This week, I want to focus on some more tax planning steps you can take before the end of the year to cut your business tax bill.  Today, look at the potential tax savings to be found by eliminating bad debts from your accounts receivable listing.How Bad Debt Write-off Cuts TaxesIn December, Henry sits down with his CPA and reviews his accounts receivable aging report. He finds that several customers are no longer ordering from him and these same customers have had an outstanding balance since April.  The total from these non-paying customers is $12,500.  If Henry does nothing, that $12,500 will show up as income, meaning he will probably have to pay taxes on this income, even though he hasn't received it yet. (Henry's company uses accrual accounting.) If he "writes off"this amout as uncollectible, he does not have to include it in his income for the year.What If Payment is Made Later?If one or more of his non-paying customers decides to pay its bill before the end of the year or during the next year, Henry's accountant will have to reverset the non-payment. But this is a small price to pay to get what could be significant tax reduction.For More InformationHow to Interpret an Accounts Receivable Aging ReportHow to Set up a Collection SystemCash Accounting vs. Accrual AccountingEnd of Year Tax Planning - Write Off Bad Debtsoriginally appeared on About.com Business Law / Taxes: U.S.on Monday, December 7th, 2009 at 16:35:46.Permalink| Comment| Email this

Banks Jack Up Treasury Fees - CFO - December 8, 2009
List prices for corporate account and transaction services rose 3.6% on average in 2009, despite the plunge in inflation in 2008.

E*Trade's Debt Swap Triggers Ownership Change - CFO - December 8, 2009
The online trading hub triggers a technical change of ownership by swapping out its debt. But it should be able to hang on to its long-term tax benefits.

Communications Components M&A to Continue - Barron's - December 8, 2009
Morgan Keegan expects smaller, strategic "tuck-in" acquisitions.

Sprint Surges Ahead - Barron's - December 8, 2009
Shares of the wireless provider jumped in the wake of a bullish story from Barron's.

Mall Traffic Looks Flat Ahead of Xmas - Barron's - December 8, 2009
December has gotten off to a slow start for retailers, says Lazard Capital Markets.

Can Credit Card Cos. Charge Higher? - Barron's - December 8, 2009
American Express, Capital One and Discover Financial all were upgraded today. Should they have been?

Bernanke's FAQs: Forget Any Quick [Rate Hike]s - Barron's - December 8, 2009
Randall W. ForsythFed head says fed funds to stay low for an extended period. Skepticism about jobs numbers justifies no near-term moves.

What Are You Paying For? - WSJ - December 8, 2009
"Closet index funds" have higher fees than true index funds but don't differ enough to warrant the higher costs.

House to Raise Taxes on Fund Managers - WSJ - December 8, 2009
The House is set to extend tax breaks, but elements of the plan, including higher taxes on fund managers, are likely to be opposed in the Senate.

Sole Proprietorship Pro/Con - About.com. - November 30, 2009
Discusses the advantages and disadvantages of sole proprietorships, including control, liability, taxes, and start-up.

Reminder - December Tax Due Dates - About.com - November 30, 2009
Although December doesn't start until tomorrow, I wanted to give you an extra day to prepare the tax reports and payments for the month.December 15: Corporate Income Tax Estimated Payments/ReportsIf you are running a corporation, you must make estimated payments on federal income taxes and file your estimated tax report by this date.December 15: November Payroll Tax Deposit DueFor payroll taxes (Social Security/Medicare and withholding) from November wages, you must deposit by December 15.December 31: Pay Tax and Report on Large Vehicle Purchase in NovemberIf your business purchased a heavy truck (taxable vehicle weight of 55,000 pounds or more) in November, you must file Form 2290 and pay an annual vehicle tax by the end of December.For a complete listing of federal taxes and reports due each month, go to my Business Tax Calendarsection.Reminder - December Tax Due Datesoriginally appeared on About.com Business Law / Taxes: U.S.on Monday, November 30th, 2009 at 06:27:19.Permalink| Comment| Email this

Holiday tipping in a lean year. Who? How much? And… do you have to? - Accounting Web - November 30, 2009
Leaner budget this year?  This is the time of year when you normally tip certain people in your life that you might not tip the rest of the year. But do you know what is customary?  If you habitually over-tip to keep from under-tipping, this might be the year to find out how much is enough. read more

3-step strategy for a twitchy market - MSN Money - November 20, 2009
Many investors are deeply suspicious of the 60% run-up in stocks this year and are itching to sell, but then what? Here's how to take some profits now while setting up a profitable 2010.

Fiduciary Liabilities: Are You Covered? - CFO - November 20, 2009
With lawsuits piling up against pension plan sponsors, individual fiduciary would do well to protect themselves against financial risks, experts say.

It's Quiet …Too Quiet - Barron's - November 20, 2009
How to profit from a likely pickup in volatility

Treasury Yield Plunge Sends Warning - Barron's - November 20, 2009
Collapse in note yields suggests economic distress will keep Fed on hold well into 2010.

Seven Health-Care Picks - Barron's - November 20, 2009
Jefferies suggests building positions in managed care and other names.

Diamonds: An Investor's Best Friend? - WSJ - November 20, 2009
The growing demand for tangible assets has led to the launch of a number of diamond investment funds this year, which believe they can achieve double-digit returns for investors.

Who's in Charge? At Mutual Funds, It Matters - WSJ - November 20, 2009
Change in managers often goes unnoticed, but it shouldn't. The industry is all about records and reputations

How to Escape the Rat Race - WSJ - November 20, 2009
Brett Arends considers how much money you'll need before telling the boss to take this job and...you know.

Regifting: Obama, The Nobel Prize And The IRS - Forbes - November 20, 2009
If you want to donate a prize to charity, be sure to plan ahead.

Has Apple blown its big chance? - MSN Money - November 13, 2009
While competitors have been losing market share, the company has failed to capitalize on an opportunity to achieve utter dominance -- leaving the door open for its rivals.

Don't Mess with the IRS - Cases in Point - About.com - November 13, 2009
In honor of Friday the 13th, I am acknowledging some unlucky taxpayers who figured they could get away with cheating the IRS.  Silly fools!I have reported before on how business owners think they can get away with tax evasion, for many years in some cases, hoping the IRS won't find out or won't prosecute.  They are wrong.  If the IRS suspects a business owner is trying to commit tax evasion, they can and will find out and they will prosecute. Tax evasion is a federal crime, and, conviction means years in prison, in addition to paying back the money with fines and penalties.Examples of Businesses Convicted of Tax EvasionI went through an IRS article listing results of general tax fraud examinations for the last IRS fiscal year (ending  September 30, 2009).  Most of these cases involve under-reporting income/filing false tax reports; I'm giving you these examples so you can know what notto do:A roofing company owner failed to report cash deposits as taxable income.A restaurant/supper club owner kept track of cash paid as "door income"for his supper club (sounds like a cover charge), but then didn't report this income on his business tax return.An independent contractor tried to hide income by having his compensation paid to a limited liability company which he owned. (I guess he didn't file a tax return for the LLC.)An underground sprinkling business owner cashed checks to avoid the $10,000 cash payment reporting requirement. He then used the money to pay undocumented illegal workers.  Two strikes against him.A home improvement contractor ran his business in cash, cashing customer checks at a restaurant, then using the cash to pay employees and bills and to buy materials.A software business owner deducted personal expenses as business expenses, under-reporting his income.A truck driver training school owner instructed his employees to take cash for deposits and then didn't report the cash.A medical doctor failed to file tax returns for two years.You get the idea.  If you want to avoid IRS scrutiny, remember:Cash is still income. Doing business in cash doesn't mean you can get away with not reporting the transactions. Keep business and personal separate. Don't try to deduct personal expenses as business expenses to lower your business tax bill.File your tax returns.If you stop filing for a year, the IRS will notice the lapse and start asking questions.For More Information:Tax Evasion vs. Tax Avoidance - What's the Difference?6 Ways to Minimize Your Risk of Tax AuditDon't Mess with the IRS - Cases in Pointoriginally appeared on About.com Business Law / Taxes: U.S.on Friday, November 13th, 2009 at 06:33:40.Permalink| Comment| Email this

Getting the most from live CPE training - Accounting Web - November 13, 2009
Smart CPAs are doing more than just fulfilling their state board requirements, they are trying to squeeze the most value out of their continuing education.Though accounting has often been called "recession-proof," no job is completely safe. That's why career advisers urge accountants to develop skills that will make them difficult to replace by carefully choosing the best training options.read more

A CFO's Strategy: Verticals Within Verticals - CFO - November 13, 2009
Lawson Software's Rob Schriesheim keeps the focus on six customer markets, allocating capital where growth prospects are strongest, and slashing costs with aggressive offshoring.

When CFOs Take the Top Spot - CFO - November 13, 2009
It doesn't happen often, but when CFOs become CEOs, companies often outperform, at least on stock prices.

Good and Bad News in China's Currency Shift - Barron's - November 13, 2009
Allowing the remnimbi to rise may cut global imbalances but also tighten tap of liquidity.

Two Picks in Life and Health Insurers - Barron's - November 13, 2009
FBR Capital Markets likes StanCorp Financial and Prudential Financial.

An Options Antidote for Falling Dividends - Barron's - November 13, 2009
Selling calls against stocks in a portfolio can help investors make up for the lost income.

Strong Steel Outlook to Boost Coal Prices - Barron's - November 13, 2009
Credit Suisse lifted estimates in the metallurgical-coal sector.

The Lowdown on Home-Buyer Tax Credits - WSJ - November 13, 2009
A law President Obama signed last week extends through next spring a temporary tax credit of up to $8,000 for first-time home buyers. What's new is a tax credit of up to $6,500 for certain repeat home buyers. Here are answers to some common questions about the new rules.

Fed Slaps Curbs on Overdraft Fees - WSJ - November 13, 2009
The Fed imposed rules making it harder for banks to hit customers with fees for overdrawing their accounts.

Last Hurrah for Rich Credit Card Rewards? - WSJ - November 13, 2009
As card issuers prepare to raise costs and trim benefits of rewards programs, now might be your last, best chance to snag a good deal, writes Brett Arends.

Builders Downsize the Dream Home - WSJ - November 13, 2009
As they draw up blueprints for the house of the post-recession future, builders are struggling to distinguish among what home buyers need, what they want and what they can live without.

A better gauge of a company's health - MSN Money - November 6, 2009
Two companies with very different tales to tell -- Ford and Australian mining startup Lynas -- show why investors shouldn't rely solely on easy-to-manipulate earnings reports.

Cruising Has Its Limits - For Tax Deductions, That Is - About.com - November 6, 2009
Back in the good old days, (pre-recession, that is), many business people figured they should get all the good things in life from owning a business.  Many owners and board members would plan luxurious vacations and call them "board meetings"and deduct the costs as a business expense.  No more.  In addition to cracking down on entertainment expenses, the IRS also looks unfavorably on conferences, seminars, and board meetings on cruise ships.  You can still take these trips, but there are limits.Cruise Ship Expense LimitYou can deduct up to $2,000 a year for expenses of meetings, conventions, or trade shows held on cruise ships (the IRS considered any ship to be a cruise ship), but only if all the following conditions are met:The event must be directly related to your trade or businessThe cruise ship is registered in the U.S. (I found this requirement strange, since most of these cruise ships have non-U.S. registrations)All ports of call are in the U.S. or U.S. possessionsIn addition,  you must provide:A written statement detailing the total days of the trip (not including days of transportation to and from the cruise ship port), the number of hours each day devoted to business activities, and the program of scheduled business activitiesA statement by an officer of the organization or group sponsoring the meeting that includes a schedule of each day's business activities, and the number of hours you attended the scheduled business activities.Conventions Held Outside the North American AreaYou cannot deduct expenses for attending a convention, seminar, or similar meeting held outside the North American area unless:The meeting is directly related to your trade or business, andIt is as reasonable to hold the meeting outside the North American area as in it.The North American area includes the Caribbean and U.S. possessions in the Pacific.  SeeIRS Publication 463for a complete list.Bottom Line: If you are planning on attending a convention on a cruise ship or taking your board of directors on a cruise for your annual meeting, check with your tax adviser to make sure you will be able to deduct at least some of the cost of this very expensive vacation.  Oh, and forget about getting family member costs paid; the IRS specifically disallows this.Image: Angelo Cavalli/Getty ImagesCruising Has Its Limits - For Tax Deductions, That Isoriginally appeared on About.com Business Law / Taxes: U.S.on Friday, November 6th, 2009 at 05:01:34.Permalink| Comment| Email this

Deducting Car Expenses for a Home Business - About.com - November 6, 2009
After reading yesterday's blog post about car expenses, a reader asked, "How do I know what car expenses I can deduct from my home business? What travel from home to other locations is deductible?"Can I Deduct Car Expenses Going Back and Forth from my Home Office?You can deduct business-related car expenses for travel back and forth under these circumstances:You work at home or from home and your home is your principal place of business(the place where you earn most of your income or where you do your administrative or management tasks)You don't commute back and forth from your home to an office.You can prove that the car expenses were business related, not personal.Two ExamplesSunny works from home as a freelance writer. She has online clients, but she also has local clients. She can deduct any car travel to drop off or pick up work from local clients, and to travel to the office supply store for supplies.  She should be careful not to combine business trips with personal ones, like personal banking or a stop at the grocery store.Karl works out of his home as a manufacturer's representative,and he travels around the state to meet clients and discuss purchases.  He does his administrative work at home, so it is his primary place of business. He keeps a log in his car and records mileage for all car travel, from his home to client locations, hotels, and back.In both of these cases, the small business owners can deduct all business travel to and from their home.How Do I Prove Car Expenses are Business Related?The IRS looks very carefully at car expenses for small businesses.  They want to see detailed records that:Were prepared at the time of the expense (not weeks later) and That detail the date, reason for the trip, and include any other information to show that the trip was business-relatedWhat Car Expenses Can I Deduct?You can deduct all ordinary and necessary expenses related to business travel, but no personal travel. You can deduct these expenses for car travel to and from business locations.  For example:the home of a clientthe office store where you buy office suppliestemporary job sites where you work for clientsplaces where you meet with clients, customers, or business advisersyour warehouse or the place where you keep your business inventorya convention center where you participated in a business seminarHow do I determine these car expenses?You can use the standard mileage deduction rate set by the IRS (55 cents a mile for 2009), orYou can keep track of actual costs for all car-related expenses.Using the standard mileage rate is less trouble, because all you have to do is set out the miles traveled for business purposes, but the actual cost method sometimes results in higher deduction amounts.First-year Rule for Standard MileageIf you don't use the standard mileage rate the first year of your business, you can never use it again.  If you do use standard mileage the first year, you can then select the rate which will give you the highest possible tax deduction.Remember, although business travel to and from your home based business is deductible, it must be documented and recorded at the time of the trip.  Don't get caught shorthanded without these documents in the event of an IRS audit of your business.For More Information:More about Taxes for Home Based BusinessesStandard Mileage vs. Actual Expenses - Which is Better?Deducting Car Expenses for a Home Businessoriginally appeared on About.com Business Law / Taxes: U.S.on Thursday, November 5th, 2009 at 17:26:58.Permalink| Comment| Email this

Ohio CPAs teach local students 'Smart Money Management' skills - Accounting Web - November 6, 2009
On November 12, fifth-grade students at Brecksville-Broadview Heights Central School in Brecksville, OH will play the stock market and learn the risks and rewards of real-life investing from CPAs with Howard, Wershbale & Co. (HWCO) in Cleveland. read more

When NOT to file a claim - MSN Finance - November 6, 2009
Some insurers are dumping consumers who file too many or the wrong type of claims. Here are four scenarios when you should pay out of pocket.

How to file an insurance claim -- and win - MSN Finance - November 6, 2009
Submitting a claim doesn't have to be painful, drawn-out experience. Follow these tips to get a quicker response from your insurer.

Better places to stash your cash - MSN Finance - November 6, 2009
Money market mutual funds are paying a pittance. Look to local banks, laddered CDs and short-term bond funds to achieve higher yields.

Hedging Against Big Ben &Co. - Barron's - November 6, 2009
Here's an options play for rising Treasury yields.

Shaky Foundation for Home Builders - Barron's - November 6, 2009
Investors are best advised to avoid the group through year end, says Fox-Pitt Kelton.

Cisco Results to Boost Wi-Fi, Security Markets - Barron's - November 6, 2009
Cisco's fiscal first-quarter results bode well for vendors in these two sectors.

Cheescake Factory Gets IRS Indigestion - Forbes - November 6, 2009
Restaurant chain fights tax bill linked to stock option backdating.

Why is Toyota selling a $400,000 car? - MSN Money - October 30, 2009
The Lexus LFA is designed to compete with the hottest hot rods. It's a breathtaking display of ego -- and the last thing Toyota needs to restore its tarnished brand.

7 financial stocks poised to profit - MSN Money - October 30, 2009
As banks move away from traditional banking to goose their profits and shore up their capital ratios, a handful of global players are getting into position to fill the void.

Sticking-Plasters of the Universe - CFO - October 30, 2009
The buy-out barons say the worst is over. They would.

Space Case - CFO - October 30, 2009
Underutilizing office space is frustrating and costly, but there are ways to minimize the impact.

CFOs on the Move: Week Ending October 30 - CFO - October 30, 2009
Motorola, Nissan Motor, The Andersons, Aviva, Nokia, United Rentals.

Pro-American Mood Clouds Convergence - CFO - October 30, 2009
Only the biggest U.S. companies should bother adopting the international financial reporting standards written by International Accounting Standards Board, the former chair of the SEC's advisory committee on financial reporting says.

Buffer Warren - CFO - October 30, 2009
Why are banks so averse to raising equity?

Safer Semiconductor Stocks - Barron's - October 30, 2009
J.P. Morgan likes Linear Tech, Xilinx and Altera for defensive positions.

Expanded Tax Credit A Good Deal? - WSJ - October 30, 2009
An expanded tax credit could make buying a house a better deal -- but only if there are low prices and slumping mortgage rates, writes Brett Arends.

Amid College Search, Time for a Financial Check-Up - WSJ - October 30, 2009
As high-school seniors' college search kicks into high gear, many parents are fretting about how to pay. While an ideal college savings plan would have started years ago, it's not too late to catch up.

How To Arrange A Loan Between Family Members - Forbes - October 30, 2009
Parents can help their children with a down payment without running afoul of the IRS.

How Owning A Home Reduces Your Taxes - Forbes - October 30, 2009
Home-buyer tax credit only one of ways to save.

Equal Protection For The Rich? - Forbes - October 30, 2009
California tech exec fights state's 1% surcharge on millionaires.

Beneficiaries of Broadband Stimulus - Barron's - October 29, 2009
Jefferies &Co. likes ADC Telecom, Occam and Adtran.

Why Homeowners Are Raising the Roof - WSJ - October 29, 2009
Some homeowners are paying as much as 20% less for remodeling projects than they would have a few years ago, depending on the region and the job.

Is chip makers' strength an illusion? - MSN Money - October 19, 2009
As expected, Intel and other companies in the sector are beating their numbers this earnings season. Here's why that success might be just a façade.

Secret cash advances worry wife - MSN Finance - October 19, 2009
If spouses have separate credit card accounts, should they be accountable to each other? Also: How card issuers view cash advances.

Are you giving beyond your means? - MSN Finance - October 19, 2009
Don't wreck your own finances trying to save somebody else's. Whether it's giving to church or children, be sure you can afford your generosity.

Study: Health-Care Rates to Rise - WSJ - October 19, 2009
No matter what happens with health-care reform this fall, employees should expect to pay more for health insurance in 2010, a consulting firm says.

Clunker Cash: No Boost for Consumers - Barron's - September 29, 2009
Dealers pocketed the biggest chunk of Uncle Sam's largesse. Any help for the economy from handouts is fading.

The real post-meltdown winners - MSN Money - September 21, 2009
Since triggering an epic financial meltdown, Wall Street's biggest franchises have seen startling increases in their market values. What are investors thinking?     

The trouble with techs right now - MSN Money - September 21, 2009
This important bellwether sector is generally too pricey for me and too risky to play -- long or short. Still, there is one name I like.

5 health care stocks for the reform era - MSN Money - September 21, 2009
Stocks in the sector have generally been beaten down as the debate rages on, but some should do well no matter what reform eventually looks like. These 5 are worth a look.

LLC Startup Questions - About.com. - September 21, 2009
Here are some frequently asked questions about forming a limited liability company.

A Bull Market That Never Happened - WSJ - September 21, 2009
Beyond a sorry contemplation of the past 10 years, what have investors learned from the last decade? And where do we go from here?

IPO Market Regains Momentum - WSJ - September 21, 2009
Five IPOs are set to launch this week, which would be the most activity since late 2007.

As Confidence Rises, So Do Inflows - WSJ - September 21, 2009
Mutual-fund investors' confidence in the markets appears to be rising, with several fund categories seeing their biggest inflows of the year in the latest week.

IRS Extends Amnesty Deadline - WSJ - September 21, 2009
The IRS extended until Oct. 15 its amnesty program for taxpayers with undeclared offshore income.

Tide Turning in Favor of Procter &Gamble - Barron's - September 11, 2009
Price reductions are pressuring Church &Dwight's Arm &Hammer brand.

Full Speed Ahead For Chips - Barron's - September 11, 2009
Chip makers are scrambling to meet demand, raising the likelihood for further gains in the sector.

Alternatives May Top Asset Managers - Barron's - September 11, 2009
Barclays cited market skepticism of further gains for its preference.

A Shift in Market Leadership - Barron's - September 11, 2009
The charts suggest that the torch is being passed to stocks in the transportation, networking and defense sectors.

Chrysler Prepares to Resume Leases - WSJ - September 11, 2009
Chrysler is preparing to resume auto leases, according to a dealer briefed on the plans.

Restaurant Loses Appetite for Cash - WSJ - September 11, 2009
In the latest encroachment of credit and debit cards onto the greenback's turf, a high-end New York City restaurant said it will only accept plastic as payment for diners' checks.

How to Make Employers Want You - WSJ - September 8, 2009
Contrary to what many believe, most firms in most industries are hiring. Strong candidates need to research and network in order to select the best opportunity from multiple job offers.

Some Funds Stop Grading on Curve - WSJ - September 8, 2009
Wall Street is concocting new ways to protect investors from steep losses amid increasing recognition that conventional assumptions about market behavior are off the mark, substantially underestimating risk.

Value Manager Not Betting on Hope - WSJ - September 8, 2009
Bill Clinton famously said in 1992 that he still believes in a place called "hope," but when it comes to picking stocks, Paradigm Value Fund's portfolio manager thinks hope is overrated.

White House Initiatives to Help Workers Save - WSJ - September 8, 2009
The White House announced a series of administrative moves aimed at making it easier for workers to build up their savings.

Why this rally might head into fall - MSN Money - August 31, 2009
As weak stocks rally and speculators take control, there are reasons to believe the market could be in for a pullback. But I'm not betting on it -- at least not yet.

Can colleges keep promises of aid? - MSN Finance - August 31, 2009
Many universities replaced loans with grants and otherwise worked to make college more affordable. But that was before once-hefty endowment funds started shrinking.

For Intel, the Future Is Now - CFO - August 26, 2009
Capital spending in a lousy economy can drive outsized returns, the company's CFO says.

SEC Names Kroeker Chief Accountant - CFO - August 26, 2009
The former Deloitte partner has been filling in as acting chief accountant since January.

Gold Is Power - Barron's - August 26, 2009
Aurum est potestas in any language may come down to option trades on SPDR Gold.

S&P 500 Could Reach 1,200 by Year-End - Barron's - August 26, 2009
Prudential expects continued gains in equities in the second half.

Two Picks in a Clouded Solar Sector - Barron's - August 26, 2009
Credit Suisse likes Trina Solar and ReneSola.

Parents Scramble Amid After-School Cuts - WSJ - August 26, 2009
Closings and cutbacks at thousands of after-school programs nationwide have parents scrambling to make alternative arrangements.

How I Got Burned by Beanie Babies - WSJ - August 26, 2009
If we learn to recognize the patterns of investment bubbles, we might be more astute in reacting and adjusting our own behavior, writes Karen Blumenthal.

Fight Brews as Proxy-Access Nears - WSJ - August 26, 2009
Companies are racing to derail or, more likely, weaken the SEC's "proxy access" rule that could upend board votes and add to business costs.