Business Finance Archives - 365 Business | Business Tips & Advice Tue, 24 Oct 2023 20:13:38 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.3.2 https://365businesstips.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/cropped-favicon-32x32.png Business Finance Archives - 365 Business | Business Tips & Advice 32 32 12 Necessary Steps to Start A Pool Business https://365businesstips.com/12-necessary-steps-to-start-a-pool-business/ Tue, 24 Oct 2023 20:13:36 +0000 https://365businesstips.com/?p=16120 Starting a pool cleaning business can be a lucrative venture, considering the growing demand for pool maintenance services in the U.S. since 2020. You will need to follow these 12 steps to start a pool cleaning firm.

1. Develop a Business Plan

Begin by conducting market research and crafting a comprehensive business plan. This plan should outline your goals, operational strategies, financial projections, and potential challenges. A sound plan will attract investors, guide your decision-making, and help secure loans or grants.

2. Register Your Business

Register your pool cleaning business with the state. Choose a suitable legal structure, such as a sole proprietorship, partnership, or LLC, and open a business bank account. This step will protect your personal assets and facilitate growth.

3. Get Required Permits and Licenses

Make sure to comply with state and federal regulations by obtaining the necessary permits and licenses. Some states may require you to pass certification exams. Becoming a Certified Pool Operator (CPO) will provide you with essential training in pool care.

4. Insurance Your Firm

Protect your firm with appropriate insurance coverage. You will also need general liability insurance to protect your assets. Before you can select an adequate insurance policy, you must determine your specific risks and needs.

5. Buy Equipment

Acquire the necessary pool cleaning equipment. At the very least, you will need water test kits, a pool shock, an algae brush, a manual pool vacuum, a leaf skimmer, a telescopic pole, a filter cleaner, and a pool cover. Make sure to purchase a vehicle that can carry all the required equipment.

6. Build Your Brand

Create a strong brand identity for your business. Develop a professional website, establish a social media presence, and use online marketing strategies to connect with your local market.

7. Highlight Your Unique Selling Strategy

Differentiate your pool cleaning business by emphasizing what makes your services stand out compared to your competitors.

8. Market Your Services

Start advertising your pool cleaning services. Focus your efforts on late winter and early spring when pool owners prepare for the swimming season. Use digital marketing, paid ads, and Google business listings to reach potential customers.

9. Emphasize Customer Service

Outstanding customer service is the most important factor in developing good word-of-mouth buzz for your business. Since money will be tight in the early stages, your reputation among customers will make or break your firm.

10. Streamline Operations

Use route planning and optimization tools like OptimoRoute to schedule appointments, reduce drive time, and save on fuel costs.

11. Consider CPO Certification

While not always mandatory, obtaining a Certified Pool/Spa Operator (CPO) certification can enhance your knowledge and reputation in the field.

12. Register and Insure Your Firm

Register your business with local and state authorities. Obtain a tax ID number and necessary insurance to operate legally and protect your business.

Starting a pool cleaning business requires careful planning, dedication to quality service, and a focus on customer satisfaction. By following these steps and staying committed to excellence, you can work your way to success.

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Business Relocation: 5 Easy Routes and Potential Threats https://365businesstips.com/relocating-your-business/ Fri, 20 Oct 2023 20:05:04 +0000 https://365businesstips.com/?p=16112 Relocating a business is a significant decision that comes with its set of challenges and opportunities. Whether it’s due to expansion, a more strategic location, or other factors, moving can be a game-changer for many businesses. However, it’s essential to approach this transition with a clear plan and awareness of potential threats.

What to Know About Business Relocation

  • Reasons for Relocation: Businesses may choose to relocate for various reasons, including accessing a larger customer base, being closer to suppliers, reducing costs, or tapping into a more skilled workforce.
  • Cost Implications: Relocating involves various costs, from the physical move to potential downtime during the transition. It’s crucial to budget for these expenses and ensure the move’s benefits outweigh the costs.
  • Stakeholder Communication: Keeping employees, customers, and other stakeholders informed about the move is essential. This ensures a smooth transition and maintains trust.

5 Routes a Business Can Use to Relocate to Another Location Easily

  • 1. Professional Moving Services: Hiring a professional moving company that specializes in business relocations can simplify the process. They have the expertise and equipment to handle office equipment, machinery, and other business assets.
  • 2. Phased Relocation: Instead of moving everything at once, consider a phased approach. This means relocating different departments or sections of the business sequentially, ensuring that some operations continue running during the move.
  • 3. Virtual Transition: For businesses that primarily operate online, consider transitioning virtually first. Move digital assets, update addresses on websites and online platforms, and ensure remote work systems are in place before the physical move.
  • 4. Local Partnerships: Collaborate with local businesses or chambers of commerce at the new location. They can offer insights, resources, and support to ease the transition, from finding suitable spaces to understanding local regulations.
  • 5. Temporary Locations: Before committing to a permanent new location, consider setting up at a temporary space. This allows businesses to test the waters, understand the new market, and make informed decisions about a long-term move.

The Threats to Know About When Moving Your Business

  • Operational Disruptions: The moving process can disrupt regular business operations, leading to potential revenue loss. Planning and phased relocation can mitigate this.
  • Employee Turnover: Not all employees may be willing or able to move to the new location. Businesses risk losing valuable talent during relocation.
  • Customer Attrition: Existing customers may find it inconvenient or unfeasible to access the business at its new location, leading to a potential loss of clientele.
  • Unfamiliar Markets: The new location may have a different market dynamic. There’s a risk that the business might not resonate as well with the new audience as it did with the old one.
  • Hidden Costs: From unexpected moving expenses to regulatory fees or setup costs in the new location, hidden costs can strain the business’s finances.

In conclusion, while relocating a business offers numerous opportunities, it’s a decision that should be approached with thorough research, planning, and awareness of potential threats. By considering the routes mentioned above and being aware of potential risks, businesses can make a smooth and successful transition to their new location.

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Reimagining Corporate Learning: The Financial Spectrum https://365businesstips.com/reimagining-corporate-learning-the-financial-spectrum/ Mon, 07 Aug 2023 14:23:03 +0000 https://365businesstips.com/?p=15995 Learning and development (L&D) strategically aligns employee skills with business objectives.  Yearly, millions embark on L&D journeys, spanning compliance, soft skills, upskilling, and more.  COVID-19 amplified corporate investment in these programs, with 2022 investment statistics revealing heightened commitment across diverse company scales.  However, a gap remains; only 8% of L&D teams quantify their return on investment (ROI), leaving most programs without success metrics.

Calculating ROI involves understanding various expenses:  time, effort, and money.  Complications arise when creating corporate learning content, requiring 55-177 work hours for a mere 20 minutes.  Employees often sacrifice valuable work hours for traditional courses, leading to substantial sunk costs.  Additional monetary commitments include transportation, venues, and equipment. Surprisingly, digital platforms can sometimes be just as costly.

Despite substantial investment, satisfaction remains low.  Only 10% of traditional L&D expenditure yields tangible results, while ineffective training drains companies of resources, costing up to $13.5 million per 1,000 employees.  But hope persists, as each dollar spent on L&D increases revenue by $4.70.  The trick lies in selecting the right tool.

Arist, a science-backed microlearning platform, measures ROI using modern key performance indicators (KPIs) and reduces time, cost, and effort spent, thereby amplifying ROI and redefining corporate learning economics.  This innovative approach fosters increased confidence, learning adoption, and content creation speed, carving a promising path in the corporate learning landscape.

Measuring the ROI of corporate learning
Source: Arist
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The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Commercial Video Cost: Unveiling the Secrets Behind Iconic Commercials https://365businesstips.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-understanding-commercial-video-cost-unveiling-the-secrets-behind-iconic-commercials/ Wed, 19 Jul 2023 23:47:41 +0000 https://365businesstips.com/?p=15966 In the modern world, commercials play a crucial role in shaping brands and influencing consumer behavior. As the advertising industry continues to evolve, the production of high-quality commercial videos has become an essential investment for businesses. However, understanding the factors that impact commercial video costs can be daunting. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the concept of commercial video cost, explore real-world examples, and shed light on some of the most popular commercials and their budgets.

Factors Influencing Commercial Video Cost

Before we dive into the examples, let’s explore the primary factors that contribute to commercial video costs:

  1. Concept and Script: Crafting an engaging and compelling concept, along with a well-written script, lays the foundation for a successful commercial. Depending on the complexity and creativity involved, script development costs can vary significantly.
  2. Production Scale: The scale of the production, including the number of locations, cast and crew members, and set design intricacies, directly impacts the overall budget.
  3. Length and Format: The duration and format of the commercial, whether it’s a standard 30-second spot, a longer narrative, or a digital ad, will affect costs.
  4. Talent and Celebrity Endorsements: Hiring renowned actors or celebrities for endorsements can substantially increase the production costs.
  5. Post-Production: Editing, visual effects, sound design, and other post-production processes contribute significantly to the final cost.
  6. Media Placement: Separate from the production cost, media placement expenses for airing the commercial on television or digital platforms should be considered in the overall budget.

Real-World Examples: Iconic Commercials and Their Budgets

  1. Apple – “1984” (1984): This iconic commercial, directed by Ridley Scott, aired during the Super Bowl XVIII and introduced the Macintosh computer. With a budget of around $900,000 (approximately $2.4 million in today’s money), it has gone down in history as one of the most influential and groundbreaking commercials of all time.
  2. Coca-Cola – “Hilltop” (1971): Known for its catchy jingle “I’d Like to Teach the World to Sing,” this heartwarming Coca-Cola ad featured a diverse group of young people on a hilltop. With an estimated budget of $250,000 (around $1.6 million in today’s money), this commercial remains an enduring symbol of unity and harmony.
  3. Nike – “Write the Future” (2010): This star-studded Nike ad, promoting the FIFA World Cup, featured soccer legends like Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney. The jaw-dropping budget of $20 million allowed for high-end production and seamless integration of special effects.
  4. Old Spice – “The Man Your Man Could Smell Like” (2010): This humorous and memorable Old Spice commercial, starring Isaiah Mustafa, became an internet sensation. With a budget of approximately $6 million, it showcased the brand’s willingness to invest in innovative and daring advertising.
  5. Budweiser – “Puppy Love” (2014): This heartwarming Super Bowl commercial featuring the friendship between a puppy and a Clydesdale horse melted millions of hearts. The estimated budget was around $8 million, proving that emotional storytelling can resonate with audiences effectively.

Conclusion

Commercial video cost varies significantly based on various factors, and it is a critical investment for brands seeking to create lasting impressions on their audience. The examples of iconic commercials discussed here demonstrate that creativity, originality, and storytelling prowess are often more crucial than the budget alone. By understanding the factors that contribute to commercial video costs and drawing inspiration from successful campaigns, businesses can create memorable and impactful advertisements that stand the test of time.

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5 Ways To Make Quarterly Business Taxes Easier Next Year https://365businesstips.com/5-ways-to-make-quarterly-business-taxes-easier-next-year/ Wed, 19 Jul 2023 03:26:10 +0000 https://365businesstips.com/?p=15964 Tax day is a day of reckoning. Income is tallied, and refunds are issued as companies come to terms with their past year’s financial activity.

What many don’t consider is that the end of tax season is the perfect time of year to think about the future. Sure, once the dust settles, it’s tempting to put taxes out of sight and out of mind for a few months. 

But the truth is, now is the best time to smooth the way for next year’s tax activity. With that in mind, here are a few tips and suggestions for different ways to use the present to make quarterly business taxes easier next year.

1. Outsource Your Finances

The first question, before you crunch any numbers or look at any dates, is if you should be doing your quarterly taxes in the first place. Look at the year ahead and consider if you can still reasonably handle your business’s taxes. 

If you can’t, it may be time to pass things off to a third-party provider. If you’re a solopreneur, this might mean finding a competent CPA who you can collaborate with and to whom you can ask questions.

If you’re in a growing company, it might be time to hire a CPA on staff. There are also accountants who work on a freelance basis if you’re not ready for a full-time salaried employee.

Even if you’re in a startup, outsourcing is an option. AquiferCFO, for instance, is a plug-in finance department solution offering multi-industry startup support. The brand integrates into each company, helping with the day-to-day financials and providing industry insights and improvement options for busy startup teams.

Whatever your circumstances might be, if you feel like it’s time to pass off your finances, now is a good time to do it.

2. Look for the Lessons From Last Year

If you choose to keep handling your taxes yourself, then it’s time to look for ways to internally take things to the next level. Take a good hard look back over the past year. 

What lessons can you learn? What went well with your taxes? What went poorly? Were you late, or did you miss payments? Did you under or overpay? 

Taxes are a yearly affair. Even quarterly taxes only happen once every few months. It’s easy to forget things along the way. Use the current tax season as a way to identify areas for growth and then implement them moving forward.

3. Calibrate How Much You’re Paying Each Quarter

The most obvious area of adjustment is the dollar figure that you’re electronically handing over to Uncle Sam every few months. Did you find that you paid too much, too little, or just the right amount in 2022? Use your answer to inform how much you should pay this year, too.

Don’t stop there, either. Take a look at your financial forecasts. Will you grow this year? Will you have new expenses that you’re already aware of? How will this impact your quarterly taxes?

For self-employed individuals who are more or less on their own, TurboTax has a nifty resource outlining many of the things to be aware of while calculating your taxes each quarter.

4. Organize Your Quarterly Tax Paying Process

If you’re this far into a resource on making quarterly taxes easier, there’s a chance your current system is a bit disorganized. It’s understandable, as most of the quarterly payment process involves vague numbers and digital software. But digital clutter is a thing, too, and there are ways to fix it. 

For instance, if your quarterly tax-paying process is stressful, start by recording the basic steps involved. Create a document in a safe space (i.e., on a secure computer or even on a physical piece of paper) where you can record relatively detailed instructions. Write down the websites you need to visit, your account info, and the steps that you need to take once you’re logged in.

You can also often save certain payment information to a quarterly tax platform. That can make it much easier to log in and quickly make a payment in a few months.

5. Put the Dates in the Calendar

Finally, one of the simplest ways you can streamline your quarterly tax payments this year is by putting the dates each payment is due into your calendar. The IRS has this information on its website. For convenience’s sake, here are 2023’s dates:

  • June 15th
  • September 15th
  • January 15th (2024)

Whatever you use to track your data-driven responsibilities, put these dates in there. Then, add a reminder a week or two before. That way, you’ll have plenty of warning before each payment is due.

Quarterly taxes are a pain to take care of, especially when you’re trying to focus on running your business. However, they don’t need to be more complicated simply because you handle them in a disorganized or overly-complicated manner. Use the current tax season to pave the way for a better future, one where your payments are well-calculated and on time, and where you can be cool, calm, and collected.

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How to make taxes easier for small business owners https://365businesstips.com/how-to-make-taxes-easier-for-small-business-owners/ Fri, 30 Jun 2023 19:47:18 +0000 https://365businesstips.com/?p=15948 Small business owners often feel overwhelmed when filing taxes for their companies. You must be meticulous, keeping your books and records to calculate your income and expenses accurately. It’s an important task but can be tedious, time-consuming, and confusing.

Set up a Recordkeeping System Early

Keeping good financial records will make the process much easier. Establish an organized recordkeeping system early on. This includes keeping a journal or log of business transactions. Keep track of all expenses, such as travel expenses, office supplies, and repairs. These records will be essential when filing your tax return and help you keep track of your business’s financial health.

Get Organized with Accounting Software

Filing taxes for a small business can take hours. You can save some time and headaches by using accounting software to track your business’s finances. As it tallies your income and expenses, you can easily transfer these numbers to the IRS forms. Look for programs with many features, but ensure the software is simple to use.

Get Help from the IRS

The IRS offers various publications and forms to help you file your small business taxes. Be sure to familiarize yourself with their website’s small business tax center section. Here you can find online publications, tax tips, and a variety of helpful tax forms. You can also contact them directly for questions about filing or to request assistance with your return. Their customer service representatives can provide beneficial tax advice and answer any questions.

Learn About the Tax Deductions for Which You Qualify

You can take advantage of many tax deductions available exclusively to small business owners. You can write off the cost of travel to meet with clients, as well as any tools or equipment you use for your business. Additionally, complying with specific government guidelines like ADA document accessibility requirements can also be a deductible expense. To save money on your taxes, you must fully understand the available deductions and when they can be claimed. Some expenses can be deducted only in certain situations or over a period of time. Read the form instructions carefully to understand how to take advantage of these deductions. You might be eligible for federal and/or state tax incentives if you own tax-qualified Long-Term Care Insurance. Be sure your tax professional knows you have a policy. This LTC Insurance tax guide can be helpful for you and your tax professional.

Hire Someone to Do Your Taxes for You

If you are feeling overwhelmed by your tax preparations, consider hiring a professional accountant to do them for you. A little extra time and money will ensure your taxes are correctly done. The tax professional can help you gather your records and set up an organized filing system. They can also assist with the various accounting details you may not be familiar with. Look for someone knowledgeable, professional, and competent.

Why Hire a Tax Professional?

Hiring someone to handle your taxes for you may save you money. Tax professionals keep up with the latest tax laws to help you take advantage of all the available deductions and credits for small businesses. The tax professional will have many years of experience. You can trust that your returns will be prepared efficiently and accurately.

Taxes are an inevitable part of running your business. A professional accountant can help you prepare your tax return. They will give you tips and advice specific to you and your small business. They can also save you hours you would have spent on the task.

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Market Uncertainty, Complexity, and Dynamic Portfolios in the Cryptocurrency Market https://365businesstips.com/complexity-and-dynamic-portfolios-in-the-cryptocurrency-market/ Wed, 28 Jun 2023 09:16:33 +0000 https://365businesstips.com/?p=15944 The world of online cryptocurrency trading has revolutionized the financial landscape, offering new opportunities and challenges for investors. However, navigating the cryptocurrency market can be daunting due to its inherent uncertainty and complexity. In this article, we will explore how market uncertainty and complexity impact cryptocurrency investments and how dynamic portfolios can help investors adapt to these conditions.

Market Uncertainty in Cryptocurrency Trading in SA

Cryptocurrency trading in SA is known for its volatility, with prices fluctuating wildly in short periods. This volatility creates a sense of market uncertainty, making it challenging to predict future price movements. Factors such as regulatory changes, technological advancements, and market sentiment significantly contribute to this uncertainty. For instance, news of government regulations or security breaches can trigger sharp price drops or surges.

To successfully navigate market uncertainty, investors must stay informed and monitor market trends closely. By understanding the factors that influence market uncertainty, investors can make more informed decisions and manage risk effectively.

Navigating Complexity in the Cryptocurrency Market

The cryptocurrency market is complex, with thousands of different cryptocurrencies available, each with its own unique features and use cases. Furthermore, the presence of numerous exchanges, trading strategies, and investment vehicles adds to the complexity. Unlike traditional financial markets, cryptocurrencies lack widely accepted valuation metrics, making it challenging to determine the fundamental value of a cryptocurrency.

To overcome this complexity, investors must conduct thorough research and due diligence. They should analyse a cryptocurrency’s technology, team, adoption rate, and competition before considering an investment. Engaging with the cryptocurrency community, reading whitepapers, and following reputable sources can also help investors gain a better understanding of specific cryptocurrencies.

Dynamic Portfolios: Adapting to Market Uncertainty and Complexity

Static investment portfolios may struggle to adapt to the dynamic nature of the cryptocurrency market. That’s where dynamic portfolios come into play. A dynamic portfolio is a strategy that allows investors to adjust their asset allocations based on market conditions, enabling them to seize opportunities and manage risks effectively.

There are several strategies for implementing dynamic portfolios in the cryptocurrency market. One approach is rebalancing, which involves periodically adjusting the allocation of assets based on predefined criteria. Dollar-cost averaging is another strategy, where investors regularly invest a fixed amount of money regardless of the cryptocurrency’s price, reducing the impact of short-term volatility. Additionally, utilizing stop-loss orders can help protect investments by automatically selling a cryptocurrency if its price falls below a predetermined threshold.

Risk Management in the Cryptocurrency Market

Given the volatile nature of cryptocurrencies, effective risk management is crucial. Diversification is an essential risk management technique that involves spreading investments across different cryptocurrencies to reduce exposure to any single asset. Setting clear risk tolerance levels and utilizing proper position sizing is also vital to manage risk effectively.

Furthermore, staying updated with the latest security practices and employing secure storage solutions, such as hardware wallets, can help protect investments from potential hacks or theft.

How to Choose a Reliable Cryptocurrency Trading Platform in South Africa

When choosing a reliable cryptocurrency trading platform in South Africa, consider factors such as regulation and compliance with authorities like the FSCA, robust security measures, a user-friendly interface, a diverse range of cryptocurrencies, high liquidity, responsive customer support, competitive fees, positive reputation and reviews, and access to educational resources like Banxso – Online Trading Platform. By evaluating these aspects, you can select a platform that offers a secure and seamless trading experience for your cryptocurrency investments.

As the cryptocurrency market continues to evolve, market uncertainty and complexity will remain significant factors for investors to consider. By understanding market uncertainty, conducting thorough research, and implementing dynamic portfolio strategies, investors can navigate the complexities of the cryptocurrency market more effectively. Moreover, incorporating risk management techniques will help protect investments and ensure long-term success. Remember, continuous learning and staying informed are key to making informed investment decisions in the dynamic world of cryptocurrencies.

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The 6 Best Accounting Software Tools For Small Business Owners https://365businesstips.com/the-6-best-accounting-software-tools-for-small-business-owners/ Mon, 26 Jun 2023 17:58:41 +0000 https://365businesstips.com/?p=15940 You might need more resources to hire a full-time accountant if you’re a small business owner.

You may be super focused on creating content for your website using generative AI. If you’re just starting out and you don’t have that much money coming in, you need to focus on creating content so you can generate revenue. But, you’re also going to need to spend at least *some* time on accounting, even if you don’t want to; those finance calculations will add up quickly. 

Unfortunately, if you don’t have the cash to pay for help, you may have to do the accounting yourself until you generate enough revenue to hire a professional accountant. Luckily, there are several accounting software tools available that can simplify and streamline the process.

In this blog post, we will look at some of the best accounting software tools for small business owners. We’ll provide a brief overview of each tool, and cover features, pricing, and what I like and don’t like about each tool. After reading this article, you can select the best tool for you!

What Are The 6 Best Accounting Software Tools For Small Business Owners?

  1. Quickbooks.
  2. Xero.
  3. Freshbooks.
  4. Wave.
  5. Zoho Books.
  6. ZipBooks.

1. Quickbooks.

Perhaps the most well-known brand in the accounting software space, Quickbooks is a software tool that is more than capable of helping small business owners track their finances. Not only do the majority of small business owners use Quickbooks as their accounting tool of choice, but it’s also very well-designed, with all accounting features easily accessible on one central dashboard.

Quickbooks Key Features:

  • Bill Management – Track and manage your bills online so you never miss a payment.
  • Expense Management – Track expenses across all different accounts.
  • Inventory Management – Know what’s in stock and what’s on order in real time.
  • Invoicing & Payments – Quickly send invoices to clients and customers.
  • Tax Deduction Management – Find tax deductions you learned about to help maximize your tax return.

What I Like/Dislike About Quickbooks:

Likes:

  • Quickbooks design is simple to use and prioritizes speed over flashy design. I love how easy it is to track expenses on the go.
  • It’s an ideal small business accounting software choice because it is affordable.
  • I love how it calculates tax deductions for you. Using this feature, I’ve gotten a good chunk of change back last tax season.

Dislikes:

  • Not a huge fan of how long it can take for their support team to get back to you. They need to be more staffed, especially around tax season.

Quickbooks Pricing:

Quickbooks offers four tiers of pricing: Simple Start, Essentials, Plus, and Advanced.

  • Simple Start: $30/month – For small business owners just starting out.
  • Essentials: $55/month – For growing businesses with multiple employees.
  • Plus: $85/month – For established businesses that need a robust bill management system.
  • Advanced: $200/month – For large companies looking to use Quickbooks as their accounting tool of choice.

2. Xero.

Xero is a cloud-based accounting software tool that offers a wide range of features, including expense tracking, inventory management, and bank transaction syncing. It’s ideal for small business owners who need to access their financial data from anywhere at any time. It’s also one of Quickbooks’ biggest competitors.

Xero Key Features:

  • Pay Bills – This feature allows you to track and pay bills on time and clearly understand your cash flow.
  • Expense Management – Allow you and your team to submit and reimburse expense claims through Xero.
  • Bank Connections – Integrations and connections with commercial and community banks.
  • Accept payments – Collect credit and direct debit payments directly within the Xero invoice.
  • Project management tools – Tools to ensure that you and your team keep the project on track so you can get paid for all your hard work.

What I Like/Dislike About Xero:

Likes:

  • I like how many integrations Xero has with banks. It makes transferring and reporting funds super easy if you have multiple bank accounts.
  • Xero offers a great mobile app that allows you to access your finances on the go.
  • The customer service is excellent, and their support team is very responsive.

Dislikes:

  • Not a big fan that you can only send up to 20 quotes and invoices per month on the Early plan.
  • Just generally not a huge fan of the lack of features on the Early plan.

Xero Pricing:

Xero provides three pricing tiers: Early, Growing & Established—many options for your small business accounting software.

  • Early: $13/month – For small business owners just starting out.
  • Growing: $37/month – For small business owners with small teams.
  • Established: $70/month – For well-established small business owners looking to use Xero as their dedicated accounting software.

3. Freshbooks

Freshbooks is a user-friendly accounting software tool focusing primarily on invoicing and payment processing. It’s ideal for small business owners who need a simple solution for managing their cash flow.

Freshbooks Key Features:

  • Balance Sheet – Track financial performance and assets with the balance sheet.
  • General Ledger – Create, track, and report customer invoices in the cloud.
  • Cost of Goods Sold – Track your Cost of Goods Sold to report your Gross Margin accurately.
  • Accounts Payable – Pay bills in one centralized place.

Freshbooks Pricing:

Freshbooks offers three tiers of pricing: Lite, Plus & Premium. As well as a custom “Select” pricing option for Enterprise customers.

  • Lite: $22/month – For small business owners that need a simple online accounting software tool.
  • Plus: $35/month – For growing small businesses with more complex accounting software needs.
  • Premium: $60/month – For large businesses looking to use Freshbooks as their main inventory management and accounting software tool.
  • Select: Custom pricing – For businesses with more complex needs. Typically for enterprise clients or larger B2B businesses.

4. Wave.

Wave is a free accounting software tool for small business owners needing a basic invoicing, payment processing, and receipt scanning solution. It’s ideal for startups and freelancers who are just getting started with their business finances.

Wave Key Features:

  • Create invoices quickly – Generate invoices for your customers in seconds.
  • Recurring billing for repeat customers – Set up recurring invoices so you don’t have to chase down customers for payments.
  • Automatic Bookkeeping – Invoicing and payment information is automatically synced to the cloud, so you never have to track anything manually.
  • Instant Notifications – Know when invoices are viewed, so you can take the right actions to follow up with customers.

Wave Pricing:

Wave has some attractive pricing options. The invoicing and accounting options are entirely free, and they provide payment options for payment processing, payroll staff, and accounting staff.

Check out their website for a detailed breakdown of their complicated pricing setup.

5 . Zoho Books.

Zoho Books is a cloud-based accounting software tool with time tracking, expense management, and project management features. It’s ideal for small business owners who need to track their time and expenses on projects.

Zoho Books Key Features:

  • Send invoices – Remember to send an invoice to clients. Zoho Books will help you generate this quickly to ensure you get paid on time.
  • Banking Integrations – Connect Zoho Books to your bank account to get accurate reporting on your cash flow and transactions.
  • Powerful reporting – Generate reports to help you when the tax man comes to visit in spring.
  • Inventory management – Manage your business’ goods as imported and exported from your warehouse.
  • Expense Management – Enable your team to organize and submit their expenses quickly.

Zoho Books Pricing:

Zoho Books has six different tiers of pricing; Free, Standard, Professional, Premium, Elite, and Ultimate.

  • Free: $0/month – For small businesses looking to try Zoho Books.
  • Standard: $20/month – For small businesses that just need a lite accounting software solution.
  • Professional: $50/month – For growing businesses looking to begin to build out their accounting team.
  • Premium: $70/month – For established businesses with a fleshed-out finance team.
  • Elite: $150/month – For large companies looking to utilize Zoho Books on an Enterprise level.
  • Ultimate: $275/month – For enterprise clients with complex business needs.

6. ZipBooks

ZipBooks is a cloud-based accounting software tool that offers invoicing, payment processing, and reporting features. It’s ideal for small business owners who want a modern and user-friendly solution for managing their finances.

ZipBooks Key Features:

  • Invoicing & Billing – Send professional invoices in real-time.
  • Payment processing – Get paid using Paypal and every major credit card.
  • Auto-payment reminders – Never miss a bill again.
  • Bookkeeping & Reporting – Make tracking your expenses and purchases easy with full reporting and a sleek user interface.
  • Intelligence – Smart reports help you see how you’re faring versus your competitors.

ZipBooks Pricing:

ZipBooks offers four pricing tiers: Starter, Smarter, Sophisticated & Accountant.

  • Starter: $0/month – For solopreneurs looking to give ZipBooks a trial run.
  • Smarter: $15/month – For serious small businesses that need a lite accounting software solution.
  • Sophisticated: $35/month – For growing small businesses that still need to build a dedicated accounting team.
  • Accountant: Custom pricing – You’ll need to speak with the sales team for complex, custom needs.

Wrap Up

Managing your finances as a small business owner doesn’t have to be a headache. With the plethora of accounting software tools available on the market, there’s bound to be a solution that fits your needs and budget. Whether you opt for a traditional desktop app or a modern cloud-based tool, the key is to find a solution that works for you and helps you stay on top of your financial responsibilities. Hopefully, this guide was able to help you do that, so you can start tracking your expenses in the back half of 2023.

Author Bio:

Adam Purvis is an Enterprise SaaS Sales Account Manager. You can find him blogging about sales outreach, business software, and SEO at adamjohnpurvis.com. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

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Getting to Know Personal Loan Interest Rates: Factors, Trends, and Negotiation Tips https://365businesstips.com/getting-to-know-personal-loan-interest-rates/ Mon, 26 Jun 2023 13:35:43 +0000 https://365businesstips.com/?p=15935 When you require money for a planned event, such as a wedding, vacation, or home remodeling, such as a wedding, personal loans might be a big help. Personal loan applications are quick and easy to fill out. Applying for a personal loan online is another option. Totally paperless and practical, the method. The popularity of personal loans among borrowers is a result. 

A personal loan’s affordability is, however, determined by the interest rate. The amount of the EMIs increases with the interest rate. As a result of the bank’s lack of collateral, personal loans have higher interest rates than other types of loans. Depending on the borrower’s characteristics, a personal loan’s interest rate may not be the same for all applicants.

Instant loans are available from Fi.Money is deposited into your savings account. Selected people with good credit scores can apply for these pre-approved personal loans. Each user maintains control and has full sight of all information during this entirely paperless process on Fi.Money, where loans are offered at competitive interest rates. By setting up automatic in-app payments, you can also avoid paying late fees for EMIs. Each user receives an acceptable loan amount from our licenced partner bank (up to Rs. 5 lahks).

You should be aware of the variables that affect your personal loan rates if you intend to apply for a personal loan. Here are some significant variables that can impact the interest rates on your personal loans:

  • Rating of credit

Your credit score gives details about your credit history and a quick assessment of your dependability as a borrower. You are a responsible borrower with solid money management skills if you have a high credit score. A borrower with a credit score of over 7.50 is more likely to get approved for a low-rate personal loan than someone with a low score.

  • Repayment History of Loans

Before settling on a personal loan interest rate, the lender will look at your past repayment history in addition to your overall credit score. The bank will probably charge you a low-interest rate on your loan if you are a trustworthy borrower who makes on-time EMI payments.

  • Liabilities

Lenders will want to make sure you have enough income coming in each month to pay back the personal loan if you’re currently making payments on another loan, such as a home loan or an education loan. Having a lot of liabilities makes it more likely that your loan will default; therefore, lenders will generally charge you a high-interest rate.

  • Earlier Defaults

The danger to the lender grows when a bank finds loan defaults in your credit history; in this instance, the lender will either reject your loan application or charge you an extraordinarily high-interest rate.

  • Relationship between Borrower and Lender

A bank is likely to offer you a low-interest rate if you have been a consistent customer for a long time and are seen as reliable. An interpersonal relationship with the bank might result in a low-interest personal loan if the customer exhibits long-term trust and responsible behavior.

  • Portfolio of the business

If you work for a respectable corporation or a governmental organisation, the lender will take you seriously. Lenders have complete faith in your ability to repay the loan on time and depend on your reliable employment. Your interest rate will be significantly lowered by this factor.

  • Monthly Salary

The biggest factor affecting the size of your loan and the interest rate is your monthly income. A decreased likelihood of loan default is associated with increased income. It gives the lender peace of mind that the loan will be repaid on time, enabling the bank to offer a low-interest personal loan.

  • Conclusion

Understanding the variables that affect personal loans interest rates, such as your credit score, income, and employment history, is a good place to start if you want to obtain the lowest interest personal loan. If you meet the requirements with a good score, you may even be able to bargain with the bank for a cheaper interest rate on personal loans taken out online. We advise using a loan EMI calculator to calculate your precise monthly obligation once you have a loan amount in mind. This will assist you in staying current on your payments and preventing default.

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Analyzing the Employee Retention Credit for Your Business https://365businesstips.com/analyzing-the-employee-retention-credit-for-your-business/ Thu, 22 Jun 2023 20:53:24 +0000 https://365businesstips.com/?p=15927 There have been few forces as destructive for businesses across America and the world as COVID. The pandemic effectively shut down hundreds of services, leaving businesses without workers or clients in many cases. Clearly, this was a massively harmful event, but there were attempts to alleviate this.

The Employee Retention Credit is one example of an attempted alleviation. This tax credit was designed for businesses to keep their employees on the payroll across the pandemic. For any businesses that suffered from COVID, this credit could save tens of thousands per employee. In 2021 this program ended alongside, effectively, the pandemic. Yet the funds that businesses are owed are still up for grabs.

Of course this credit won’t apply to all businesses. Once a business has qualified their employees, wages, and position, they can start to look at the tax credit. Those that were particularly hurt by COVID, select organizations, and those with mandated changes by the government are most applicable. In terms of organizations, think nonprofits, universities, hospitality, and construction. 

Businesses, through tax amendment, even today, can acquire the credit. Employment has been in a state of fluctuation since the pandemic. Businesses that managed to keep their employees deserve to be rewarded for that action. In a time where keeping a business afloat is so challenging, it’s essential to take whatever opportunities are offered.

What Is Employee Retention Credit? ]]>