Business

Intuit is phasing out QuickBooks Desktop in favor of QuickBooks Online, pushing users toward a subscription model. But if you have an older version—like QuickBooks Desktop 2020—you might not need to panic just yet.

I recently used TurboTax tax filing service, and while their system doesn’t allow you to upload QuickBooks data files directly, there’s a simple workaround. You can generate your Income & Expense reports within QuickBooks and then upload them to TurboTax as PDFs. This means you can still use your old software for tax prep without needing to switch to QuickBooks Online.  This same process would work with other accounting firms, including H&R Block, etc. 

If you're running a business, you probably use good ole' stamps and envelopes for a variety of purposes: checks, invoices, direct mail, letters, etc.  The last time I sent out a direct mail piece, it consisted of a personal letter, a small trifold brochure, and a business card.  I sent 1000 of them, which translated into two boxes of 500 envelopes from Staples.  The cost, just for envelopes?  About $70.

Article: If you're a sole-proprietor or small business and need to get your name out, and anything like me, you've spent a considerable amount of time building and pruning your personal and business contacts.  In marketing terms, this may be your most valuable asset: your customer base.  These people know you already, and are (probably) the most likely to refer others to your and your business.

In passing, I frequently discuss business ventures and startups with clients and prospects. I'm a fan of entrepreneurship in general, and I've been thinking of writing this post for a while now.  My intention is to share my methods and provide suggestions to those who are looking to start their own business.

I've made a list of 7 things that every business should have: Logo Design, Business Cards, Fictitious Name / Registration, Incorporation, Business Checking, Accounting Software, and Business Liability Insurance.

Read on...