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Heads-up if your company offers a 401(k) or similar retirement plan: After several delays, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has finally settled on a deadline for the new participant-level fee disclosure rules to take effect. The goal is to provide more transparency about the fees and expenses certain plan participants pay. The rules, which apply to retirement plans that allow participants to direct their own investments, require an annual notice. For most plan sponsors, the deadline for sending out initia

Looking for ways to reduce your 2011 taxes? See if you’ll be able to qualify for any tax credits. Credits are available for a variety of expenses. Child and dependent care. If you pay for the care of a child under age 13, a disabled spouse, or another adult dependent while you work, look into claiming this credit. It’s available for 20% (or more) of up to $3,000 of qualifying expenses ($6,000 for two or more dependents). Higher education. The American Opportunity Tax Credit can be as much as $2,500 annually

Some business owners don’t “do” meetings because they think they’re a waste of time. And you may agree. But consider this: If you’re not communicating directly with your employees, then you can’t be certain that everyone is on the same page. And that could be hurting business. Without meetings, you may be missing the opportunity to: Improve efficiency by coordinating tasks and work flow Engage employees by providing information about the company Expand capabilities by asking employees for input and ideas It

Selling a vacation home or other property in today’s market can be difficult. Even if you find a potential buyer, the buyer might have trouble securing financing. If you’re willing to hold a mortgage on the property, you may be able to make a deal. But should you? Here are some things to think about when you are weighing the decision. Price. Since you won’t receive the full sale price up front, you should expect to receive a better price for your property from a buyer who wants you to hold a mortgage than f

Cash flow: It’s a rare small business owner who doesn’t have to worry about it. And the current economic climate has only made matters worse. Short of borrowing money, what steps can be taken to ease a company’s cash flow problems? Frequently, it comes down to better cash management. Money In Be prompt about sending out bills. Instead of using a 30-day billing cycle, bill customers immediately after goods or services have been delivered. To get cash in the door more quickly, consider offering customers a sm