This Week's Highlight Setting up a Payroll System – A 10 Step Guide for Small Business Whether you have one employee or 50, setting a payroll system not only streamlines your ability to stay on top of your legal and regulatory responsibilities as an employer, it can also save you time and help protect you from incurring costly IRS penalties. Here are 10 steps to help you set up a payroll system for your small business. Read more... Recent Articles in the Community Small Business Matters Start-Up Survival – Making it through the Early Years (a Year-by-Year Guide) Government data does show that seven out of 10 new employer firms last at least two years, with only half surviving for five years. Statistics aside, there is no doubt that steering a fledgling business venture through the startup phase and the immediate years that follow is likely to be a huge test of entrepreneurial character. Here are some strategies to consider as you struggle and stride through the first few years of entrepreneurialism. Read more... Business Law Advisor Resources for Starting a Halfway House or Transitional Housing Facility Are you thinking about starting a halfway house or transitional home? Here is a brief overview of the steps to take to start a temporary housing facility, including registration, location, guidelines, and financing. Read more... Marketing to Children: Where is the Line and Who Enforces it? All businesses must comply with advertising and marketing laws - failure to do so could result in costly lawsuits and civil penalties. You should be aware of regulations that apply to businesses that market their products or services to children. Read more... Get Started in Shipping - Regulations for Importers and Exporters If you plan to ship your product overseas, first familiarize yourself with the regulatory requirements and industry standards that govern domestic and international shipping transactions. If you are engaging in international commerce, you should become familiar with a new set of laws and regulations that affect your business. Read more... Small Business Cents When an Employee Passes Away: Legal and Financial Considerations for Employers An employee’s death is a tragedy that can affect any business. Small businesses with a few employees may feel the impact even harder. Nevertheless, there are legal ramifications that an employer must consider. Read these five steps to ensure that you’re following the law when issuing final wages and benefits as a result of an employee death. Read more... The Industry Word What Problem Are You Trying To Solve By Buying A Franchise? Are you exploring buying a franchise for the wrong reasons? Will you end up trading pain for pain? Here's a breakdown of the problems that can be solved and the new problems that will arise if you buy a franchise. Read more... Help for Small Businesses Looking for Government Contracts Small business owners looking for government contracts may not know that there is an entire organization out there set up to help you land government business. This organization hosts networking events, procurement conferences, business-strategy workshops, and more – in your geographic area. Who are they? Read more... | For More Topics, Visit the Discussion Boards: | |