Learn about a variety of business financing options available from traditional and alternative agencies and lenders, during a Business Financing Seminar presented by the San Juan County Economic Development Council. The event will be held at the Mullis Street Fire Hall, 1011 Mullis Street, Friday Harbor, on Monday, November 7, from 9-11 a.m.
Attendees will meet representatives from financing agencies, including the SBA, the USDA, EFACWA, the Northwest Women’s Business Center, local lenders, and more – over eight representatives will attend. Participants will leave the seminar knowing which program will best suit their businesses’ needs.
Topics will include local, state and federal loan and grant sources, loan requirements, the recent expansion of federal funding through federal and state agencies, export financing assistance, alternative financing options, hiring incentives and other services available to assist businesses.
The EDC thanks San Juan County, the Town of Friday Harbor and the Ports of Friday Harbor and Lopez for supporting our Business Financing Seminar.
The San Juan County Economic Development Council’s Business Education Series was created by the EDC in response to concerns from local business owners and overall increased demand from new businesses. This series presents a variety of business topics designed for both those opening a new business or those wanting to take their business to the next level. The Business Education Series was funded in part by San Juan County government.
The San Juan County Economic Development Council (EDC) strives to strengthen and diversify the economy of San Juan County. We believe a strong economy builds a strong community. The EDC works to build an environment that helps business owners create jobs. We serve business: linking organizations and resources, providing valuable information, rendering assistance and advocating for an improved island business environment.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Friday, October 28, 2011
2012 Washington State Small Business Award Competition Begins
SBA Seeks Nominations - deadline November 28th
It’s no secret small
businesses make significant contributions
to the state's economy and they bring innovative products and services to the
marketplace. They are an important source of employment and opportunity
throughout the state. Seattle District SBA Office wants to recognize these
entrepreneurs and those who support and champion small businesses. Help us by
nominating candidates for our upcoming awards program. Last year, two of our
local winners received National awards and represented Washington state during National Small Business Week ceremonies in
Washington DC.
“The determination and
ingenuity of America’s workers and entrepreneurs are major contributors to the
strength of the American economy” says Nancy Porzio, Seattle District Director.
“Over 99% of all employer firms are small businesses, employ 51% of all people
and have generated over two-thirds of new jobs in the past decade. Washington
State is home to approximately 550,000 small businesses and make up 98% of the
state’s employers. Small business is BIG in Washington State”, she
adds.
Any individual or organization may submit nominations. A company, owner, or business advocate can also self-nominate. Award categories include:
·Small Business Person of the
Year
·Small Business Exporter of the
Year
·SBA Young Entrepreneur of the
Year
·Jeffrey Butland Family-Owned
Business of the Year
·Entrepreneurial Success
Award
Small Business Champion Award recipients are individuals or organizations who have dedicated their professional skills or personal talents to supporting small businesses through advocacy and volunteer efforts. Nominees may or may not be small business owners. Categories include:
·Financial Services Champion of
the Year
·Home-Based Business Champion
of the Year
·Minority Small Business
Champion of the Year
·Veteran Small Business
Champion of the Year
·Women in Business Champion of
the Year
The winner of the Washington State Small Business Person of the Year, along with other state winners will be honored locally at the Washington State Awards Gala in the Spring 2012 and continue on to compete for national honors.
All nominations must be received no later than Monday, November 28, 2011. For a copy of the full nomination criteria, contact Carol Andersen, SBA, at 206-553-7315, carol.andersen@sba.gov. Downloadable nomination forms are also available electronically. Go to http://www.sba.gov/about-offices-content/2/3157/resources/6635 # #
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
VA Announces PSA About Women Veterans: Nationwide Release Encourages Public to Join VA Culture Change
WASHINGTON – The Department of Veterans Affairs is taking its internal
culture-change message to the public with a new video about the vital role
women play in the military and the importance of providing women Veterans with
high quality health care.
VA’s Women Veterans Health Strategic Health Care Group recently completed a 60-second public service announcement (PSA) that challenges viewers to rethink pre-conceived notions about women Veterans. This dynamic video features images of women in service to our country: they drive supply trucks, participate in reconnaissance missions, walk safety patrols, and operate helicopter machine guns.
“When these brave women complete their service and become Veterans, we want them to know that VA is there to meet their health care needs,” said Dr. Patricia Hayes, Chief Consultant of the VA’s Women Veterans Health Strategic Health Care Group. “At the same time, we want the public to recognize the contributions of women Veterans and the benefits they have earned through their service to the Nation.”
The PSA is available for viewing on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_profilepage&v=BOP5DCgjxPE and www.va.gov. Broadcast organizations interested in obtaining a broadcast-quality version of the PSA should contact VA’s Office of Public Affairs (202-461-7600).
The number of women using VA has doubled in the past decade, and that increase is expected to continue into the next decade.
More than half of the women using VA health care have a service-connected disability. These range from combat PTSD to missing limbs. The PSA gives a sampling of the service-connected disabilities women Veterans must cope with on a daily basis.
The PSA was developed for nationwide release from a new employee orientation video—available at www.womenshealth.va.gov—created as part of VA’s ongoing efforts to change its culture to be more understanding and accommodating of women Veterans and honor the important service they have given our country.
“VA’s goal is to provide the highest quality care for every Veteran, regardless of gender. Part of this initiative has been educating staff so they understand and appreciate that it is their job to make sure women Veterans receive the best care anywhere,” said Hayes.
In addition to new employee orientation, VA is spreading its culture-of-change message to current employees through posters, conferences, and e-mail messaging. VA health care providers are all given the opportunity to participate in a ground-breaking mini-residency program in Women’s Health for Veterans. This program has already educated more than 1,100 VA providers on the latest knowledge in gender-specific health care.
For more information about VA programs and services for women Veterans, please visit: www.va.gov/womenvet and www.womenshealth.va.gov.
VA’s Women Veterans Health Strategic Health Care Group recently completed a 60-second public service announcement (PSA) that challenges viewers to rethink pre-conceived notions about women Veterans. This dynamic video features images of women in service to our country: they drive supply trucks, participate in reconnaissance missions, walk safety patrols, and operate helicopter machine guns.
“When these brave women complete their service and become Veterans, we want them to know that VA is there to meet their health care needs,” said Dr. Patricia Hayes, Chief Consultant of the VA’s Women Veterans Health Strategic Health Care Group. “At the same time, we want the public to recognize the contributions of women Veterans and the benefits they have earned through their service to the Nation.”
The PSA is available for viewing on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_profilepage&v=BOP5DCgjxPE and www.va.gov. Broadcast organizations interested in obtaining a broadcast-quality version of the PSA should contact VA’s Office of Public Affairs (202-461-7600).
The number of women using VA has doubled in the past decade, and that increase is expected to continue into the next decade.
More than half of the women using VA health care have a service-connected disability. These range from combat PTSD to missing limbs. The PSA gives a sampling of the service-connected disabilities women Veterans must cope with on a daily basis.
The PSA was developed for nationwide release from a new employee orientation video—available at www.womenshealth.va.gov—created as part of VA’s ongoing efforts to change its culture to be more understanding and accommodating of women Veterans and honor the important service they have given our country.
“VA’s goal is to provide the highest quality care for every Veteran, regardless of gender. Part of this initiative has been educating staff so they understand and appreciate that it is their job to make sure women Veterans receive the best care anywhere,” said Hayes.
In addition to new employee orientation, VA is spreading its culture-of-change message to current employees through posters, conferences, and e-mail messaging. VA health care providers are all given the opportunity to participate in a ground-breaking mini-residency program in Women’s Health for Veterans. This program has already educated more than 1,100 VA providers on the latest knowledge in gender-specific health care.
For more information about VA programs and services for women Veterans, please visit: www.va.gov/womenvet and www.womenshealth.va.gov.
Monday, October 24, 2011
The Videos Are In – Tell Us Your Favorite Small Business Exporting Story
Voting Period for SBA’s
Export Video Contest is NOW OPEN
In August, we announced the Export Video Contest, asking small businesses to submit their exporting stories through YouTube videos for a chance to win cash prizes and a monetary award towards a future export event. The contest, presented in partnership with Visa and the President’s National Export Initiative, recognizes successful small exporters and helps get the word out about federal tools available to help U.S. exporters expand into new markets, grow their companies and spur job creation.
You responded. We received entries from companies doing business around the globe, representing diverse industries from personal care products to healthcare innovations and residential water solutions.
The videos are in, and a panel of judges has selected the finalists in each of five categories. Now it’s your turn to vote for the best video on our YouTube channel and Facebook page!
Voting Instructions
There are two different ways to vote:
1.) You can "Like" your favorite contestant's video on the SBA Facebook page (www.facebook.com/sbagov), via the links provided under the "Videos" tab.
2.) You can "Like"(thumbs-up) your favorite contestant's video on the SBA YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/sba).
You may vote once per video per voting method, but you may vote for as many of the finalists’ videos as you wish. Voting closes at 12 Noon (Eastern Time) on Friday, October 28, 2011. Only votes cast through one of the official voting methods will count. "Likes" on videos posted on non-SBA YouTube channels, personal Facebook profiles, or any other website will NOT count toward the final tally. To find the videos, check out our Facebook and YouTube pages or click on the links below by business category:
Agribusiness category
Building Beyond Our Borders
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sLbFRRHnUzg
Consumer Products category
Grow Your Business One Country At A Time
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4sIRpVXepuA
Manufacturing category
Exporting: Success Beyond Borders
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V4_s6fo1hYM
Professional Services category
From Small to International Business
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CngHp1qerQ0
Technology category
Exported from Detroit
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EO7uVnRsVaw
Please see our full Contest Rules for complete contest policies.
In August, we announced the Export Video Contest, asking small businesses to submit their exporting stories through YouTube videos for a chance to win cash prizes and a monetary award towards a future export event. The contest, presented in partnership with Visa and the President’s National Export Initiative, recognizes successful small exporters and helps get the word out about federal tools available to help U.S. exporters expand into new markets, grow their companies and spur job creation.
You responded. We received entries from companies doing business around the globe, representing diverse industries from personal care products to healthcare innovations and residential water solutions.
The videos are in, and a panel of judges has selected the finalists in each of five categories. Now it’s your turn to vote for the best video on our YouTube channel and Facebook page!
Voting Instructions
There are two different ways to vote:
1.) You can "Like" your favorite contestant's video on the SBA Facebook page (www.facebook.com/sbagov), via the links provided under the "Videos" tab.
2.) You can "Like"(thumbs-up) your favorite contestant's video on the SBA YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/sba).
You may vote once per video per voting method, but you may vote for as many of the finalists’ videos as you wish. Voting closes at 12 Noon (Eastern Time) on Friday, October 28, 2011. Only votes cast through one of the official voting methods will count. "Likes" on videos posted on non-SBA YouTube channels, personal Facebook profiles, or any other website will NOT count toward the final tally. To find the videos, check out our Facebook and YouTube pages or click on the links below by business category:
Agribusiness category
Building Beyond Our Borders
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sLbFRRHnUzg
Consumer Products category
Grow Your Business One Country At A Time
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4sIRpVXepuA
Manufacturing category
Exporting: Success Beyond Borders
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V4_s6fo1hYM
Professional Services category
From Small to International Business
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CngHp1qerQ0
Technology category
Exported from Detroit
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EO7uVnRsVaw
Please see our full Contest Rules for complete contest policies.
Co-sponsorship
Authorization #11-7080-11SBA
SBA’s
participation in this cosponsored activity is not an endorsement of the views,
opinions, products or services of any cosponsor or other person or entity. All
SBA programs and service are extended to the public on a non-discriminatory
basis.
Friday, October 21, 2011
IRS News Releases and Headliners - October 2011
Free Webinar: Reporting of Employer Provided Healthcare Coverage on Form W-2
http://www.irs.gov/businesses/small/article/0,,id=158856,00.html#2
Oct 31 -- 11:00 a.m. (PT)
This webinar will explain the Affordable Care Act provision that requires some employers to report health care coverage on Form W-2.
Learn about:
What changes employees will see in their Form W-2 due to the coverage reporting
When employers must begin reporting the cost of coverage on the Form W-2
Transitional relief for certain employers, plans, and situations
Which employers need to report the cost of coverage on the Form W-2
How employers will report the cost of coverage on the Form W-2
What valuation methods employers can use to determine the amounts to report on the Form W-2
CPE credit is not being offered for this webinar. To register for this event, visit the Internal Revenue Service Webinar Registration Web Site.
Related links:
IR-2011-31, IRS Issues Interim Guidance on Informational Reporting of Employer-Sponsored Health Coverage
Employer-Provided Health Coverage Informational Reporting Requirements: Frequently Asked Questions
BBB Secure Your ID Day: Gather Unwanted Documents for Fall Shred Event
http://alaskaoregonwesternwashington.bbb.org/secure-your-id
The Better Business Bureau is partnering with America's Credit Union and Cintas Document Management to bring free bulk shredding services to South Sound residents. BBB's goal is to help consumers securely shred personal documents to prevent identity theft.
Saturday, Oct. 22 -- 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
1495 Wilmington Drive, DuPont, WA 98327
Drive up and drop off up to three bags or boxes of unwanted documents per person. No cardboard or three-ring binders please. Items will be securely shredded on-the-spot by Cintas for free. Donate old cell phones: ACU and BBB are collecting for Cell Phones for Soldiers. Donated phones help raise the funds needed to purchase international calling cards for deployed soldiers. For more information, please contact BBB serving Alaska, Oregon and Western Washington at 206-431-2222 or events@thebbb.org.
Business Tax Requirements – Offered in Spanish – Yakima & Sunnyside
http://www.rcdr.biz/default.htm
October 18 – Sunnyside -- Work Source Office, 1925 Morgan Road
6:00-8:30 pm
or
October 20 – Yakima -- Rural Community Development Resources, 22 S 3rd Ave
6:00-8:30 pm
Rural Community Development Resources, in partnership with the IRS, and the Washington State Departments of Labor & Industries and Employment Security will be providing educational workshops for limited English speaking Latino entrepreneurs and start up businesses on employment taxes, and state and federal business tax filing and reporting, including IRS Form 1040 Sch C, Sch SE and credits. Call (509) 453-5133 for more information or to register.
THIS SEMINAR IS IN SPANISH.
Small Business Taxes & Bookkeeping for the Small Business Owner – Seattle SBA Education and Training Center
2nd & 4th Thursday of each month - 10:00 am to 11:00 am
Upcoming workshop dates: Oct 27, Nov 10
4th & Battery Building - 2401 Fourth Avenue, Suite 450, Seattle
Learn about important information regarding your tax responsibilities as a small business owner, find out what taxes to pay and when they are due. Please pre-register by calling 206-553-2664 or e-mail workshops@sba.gov
SBA and SCORE also offer a variety of other workshops for small business owners – find out more here: http://www.sba.gov/about-offices-content/2/3157
Payroll Workshop – Seattle SBA Education and Training Center
2nd Thursday of each month -- 8:30 am to 9:30 am
Upcoming workshop dates: Nov 10
4th & Battery Building - 2401 Fourth Avenue, Suite 450, Seattle
Have you been in business for a while? Are you ready to incorporate? Hire employees? Want to know more about payroll, benefits, and human resources? If you need to make informed decisions about growing your business, this workshop is for you. Key information covered: 1) Contractor versus employee; 2) Keeping current on ever changing tax rules; 3) Payroll software and business owner options; 4) Strategies to empower yourself as an entrepreneur.
Please pre-register by calling 206-553-2664 or e-mail workshops@sba.gov
SBA and SCORE also offer a variety of other workshops for small business owners – find out more here: http://www.sba.gov/about-offices-content/2/3157
Explore Self-Employment and Learn How to Start Your Own Business!
http://nwwbc.seattleccd.com/node/81
Self Employment may not be for everyone, but if you think that you have the experience, interest, and motivation, these workshops can be an important first step towards a successful new beginning. This workshop will give you an opportunity to assess your skills in order to determine if self employment is a realistic option for you.
3rd Monday of each month
Where: Worksource – Oak Harbor
Cost: FREE!
For more information or to register, contact the Northwest Washington Business Center at (425) 423-9090 or infonwwbc@seattleccd.com.
Seattle SCORE Workshops
http://seattle.score.org/events
SCORE offers workshops designed to give you the skills necessary to start your own successful business.
Nov 2, Dec 7 -- Starting a New Business
4th & Battery Building - 2401 Fourth Avenue, Suite 450, Seattle
Starting Your Own Business -- Spokane SBDC
http://wsbdc.org/class-detail?classid=371
The Spokane SBDC is now offering a Starting Your Own Business Seminar in Spokane the 3rd Wednesday of each month, starting September 21. If you have considered starting your own business, or are ready to jump start a small business you already have, you may want to attend this one evening seminar. Please register on the SBDC website training calendar http://wsbdc.org/training-calendar or use the direct link in the class title. If you have difficulty with on line registration or have other registration questions contact Cindy Doyl at cdoyl@wsu.edu or 509-358-7890.
Oct 19 – 6:00 – 8:30 pm
(Every Third Wednesday from 6 - 8:30 pm)
Cost: $36
Held at the Spokane Small Business Development Center
665 N Riverpoint Blvd., Suite 201, Spokane WA 99202
Spokane SCORE Workshops
http://www.scorespokane.org/workshops.php
Spokane Regional Business Center (SRBC), 801 W. Riverside Avenue, Suite 444, Spokane
Financial Record Keeping – Oct 26
How to Start a New Business – Nov 2
Cost: $40 if registered in advance
Check website for current listings and registration information.
Employer's Introduction to L&I Workshops
http://www.lni.wa.gov/Safety/TrainTools/Workshops/Available/EmpOrien/default.asp
This workshop is designed for new businesses or businesses that plan to hire workers for the first time. It explains an employer’s rights and responsibilities and provides an overview of the services and resources available at Labor and Industries.
Nov 9 – Mt. Vernon – 9am – 12 pm
Nov 17 -- Tacoma – 1:00 – 3:30 pm
IRS Updates & News Releases:
Did you know? One of the best ways to get information is by visiting the IRS Small Business Tax Center where you can learn everything from how to get an Employer Identification Number (EIN) online to how to best navigate an audit.
Tax Extension Reminder: Don't Overlook Special Individual and Small Business Tax Benefits; Choose e-file, e-pay
http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=247198,00.html
The Internal Revenue Service urges taxpayers whose tax-filing extensions run out soon to double check their returns for expanded individual and business tax benefits, and then file their returns electronically using IRS e-file or the Free File system. Many of the nearly 10.1 million taxpayers who requested an automatic six-month extension this year have yet to file. IRS e-file is fast, accurate and secure, making it an ideal option for those rushing to meet the Oct. 17 deadline that applies to most people who requested extensions, or the special Oct. 31 deadline that applies to many taxpayers affected by recent natural disasters.
Most taxpayers qualify for e-file regardless of whether they prepare their returns themselves or use a paid preparer and regardless of whether they live in the United States or abroad. In addition, those with incomes at or below $58,000 can file their returns for free using the Free File link on IRS.gov. Taxpayers who file electronically can also e-pay by authorizing an electronic funds withdrawal or making a credit card payment.
IRS Announces New Voluntary Worker Classification Settlement Program; Past Payroll Tax Relief Provided to Employers Who Reclassify Their Workers
http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=246203,00.html
The Internal Revenue Service has launched a new program that will enable many employers to resolve past worker classification issues and achieve certainty under the tax law at a low cost by voluntarily reclassifying their workers. This new program will allow employers the opportunity to get into compliance by making a minimal payment covering past payroll tax obligations rather than waiting for an IRS audit. This is part of a larger “Fresh Start” initiative at the IRS to help taxpayers and businesses address their tax responsibilities.
“This settlement program provides certainty and relief to employers in an important area,” said IRS Commissioner Doug Shulman. “This is part of a wider effort to help taxpayers and businesses to help give them a fresh start with their tax obligations.”
The new Voluntary Classification Settlement Program (VCSP) is designed to increase tax compliance and reduce burden for employers by providing greater certainty for employers, workers and the government. Under the program, eligible employers can obtain substantial relief from federal payroll taxes they may have owed for the past, if they prospectively treat workers as employees. The VCSP is available to many businesses, tax-exempt organizations and government entities that currently erroneously treat their workers or a class or group of workers as nonemployees or independent contractors, and now want to correctly treat these workers as employees. See the full article for details on which employers are eligible to participate.
What Employers Need to Know About Claiming the Small Business Health Care Tax Credit
http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=246605,00.html
Many small employers that pay at least half of the premiums for employee health insurance coverage under a qualifying arrangement may be eligible for the small business health care tax credit. This credit can enable small businesses and small tax-exempt organizations to offer health insurance coverage for the first time. It also helps those already offering health insurance coverage to maintain the coverage they already have. The credit is specifically targeted to help small businesses and tax-exempt organizations that primarily employ 25 or fewer workers with average income of $50,000 or less. See the full article for what small employers need to know so they don’t miss out on the credit for tax year 2010.
IRS Issues Guidance to Further Implement Return Preparer Oversight
http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=246227,00.html
The Internal Revenue Service has provided additional clarification for tax return preparers about when to renew their preparer tax identification numbers (PTINs), how suitability testing will be conducted, and when the continuing education requirement will begin. Notice 2011-80 provides that PTINs must now be renewed on a calendar year basis. All PTIN holders must renew their numbers using the online PTIN application or paper Form W-12 and pay the required fee ($64.25 for 2012) after Oct. 15 and before Jan. 1 annually. The return preparer initiative requires anyone who is paid to prepare all or substantially all of any federal tax return or claim for refund to register with the IRS and obtain a PTIN. Certain preparers also must pass a competency examination, undergo a suitability check and complete continuing education courses annually. The IRS will designate individuals who meet these requirements as a Registered Tax Return Preparer. Individuals designated as a Registered Tax Return Preparer will be authorized to prepare federal tax returns and claims for refunds and to represent their clients during an IRS examination of a tax return or claim for refund that the individual signed as the paid tax return preparer. The notice also clarifies a number of other issues.
Recent Articles from e-News for Small Businesses
Update on heavy highway vehicle use tax
A new video outlines recent changes for filing Form 2290, Heavy Highway Vehicle Use Tax return.
Reminder: Federal Payroll Tax Deposits must be made electronically
As of Jan. 31, 2011, using Federal Payroll Tax Deposit coupons F8109 or F8109B is no longer a deposit option. Federal tax deposits must be made electronically. Payments mailed to the Federal Tax Deposit mailbox in St. Louis are being returned.
Notice 2011-81 provides the 2011-2012 special per diem rates for taxpayers to use in substantiating the amount of ordinary and necessary business expenses incurred while traveling away from home.
IR-2011-94, IRS Shows Continued Progress on International Tax Evasion
Subscribe to e-News for Small Businesses
If you would like to receive e-News for Small Businesses, please visit this link to subscribe: http://www.irs.gov/businesses/small/content/0,,id=154826,00.html
Recommend e-News for Small Businesses
If you already receive e-News for Small Businesses, you can share it with a business acquaintance, colleague or employee. Just forward this link to them to view a sample edition and subscribe.
http://www.irs.gov/businesses/small/article/0,,id=158856,00.html#2
Oct 31 -- 11:00 a.m. (PT)
This webinar will explain the Affordable Care Act provision that requires some employers to report health care coverage on Form W-2.
Learn about:
What changes employees will see in their Form W-2 due to the coverage reporting
When employers must begin reporting the cost of coverage on the Form W-2
Transitional relief for certain employers, plans, and situations
Which employers need to report the cost of coverage on the Form W-2
How employers will report the cost of coverage on the Form W-2
What valuation methods employers can use to determine the amounts to report on the Form W-2
CPE credit is not being offered for this webinar. To register for this event, visit the Internal Revenue Service Webinar Registration Web Site.
Related links:
IR-2011-31, IRS Issues Interim Guidance on Informational Reporting of Employer-Sponsored Health Coverage
Employer-Provided Health Coverage Informational Reporting Requirements: Frequently Asked Questions
BBB Secure Your ID Day: Gather Unwanted Documents for Fall Shred Event
http://alaskaoregonwesternwashington.bbb.org/secure-your-id
The Better Business Bureau is partnering with America's Credit Union and Cintas Document Management to bring free bulk shredding services to South Sound residents. BBB's goal is to help consumers securely shred personal documents to prevent identity theft.
Saturday, Oct. 22 -- 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
1495 Wilmington Drive, DuPont, WA 98327
Drive up and drop off up to three bags or boxes of unwanted documents per person. No cardboard or three-ring binders please. Items will be securely shredded on-the-spot by Cintas for free. Donate old cell phones: ACU and BBB are collecting for Cell Phones for Soldiers. Donated phones help raise the funds needed to purchase international calling cards for deployed soldiers. For more information, please contact BBB serving Alaska, Oregon and Western Washington at 206-431-2222 or events@thebbb.org.
Business Tax Requirements – Offered in Spanish – Yakima & Sunnyside
http://www.rcdr.biz/default.htm
October 18 – Sunnyside -- Work Source Office, 1925 Morgan Road
6:00-8:30 pm
or
October 20 – Yakima -- Rural Community Development Resources, 22 S 3rd Ave
6:00-8:30 pm
Rural Community Development Resources, in partnership with the IRS, and the Washington State Departments of Labor & Industries and Employment Security will be providing educational workshops for limited English speaking Latino entrepreneurs and start up businesses on employment taxes, and state and federal business tax filing and reporting, including IRS Form 1040 Sch C, Sch SE and credits. Call (509) 453-5133 for more information or to register.
THIS SEMINAR IS IN SPANISH.
Small Business Taxes & Bookkeeping for the Small Business Owner – Seattle SBA Education and Training Center
2nd & 4th Thursday of each month - 10:00 am to 11:00 am
Upcoming workshop dates: Oct 27, Nov 10
4th & Battery Building - 2401 Fourth Avenue, Suite 450, Seattle
Learn about important information regarding your tax responsibilities as a small business owner, find out what taxes to pay and when they are due. Please pre-register by calling 206-553-2664 or e-mail workshops@sba.gov
SBA and SCORE also offer a variety of other workshops for small business owners – find out more here: http://www.sba.gov/about-offices-content/2/3157
Payroll Workshop – Seattle SBA Education and Training Center
2nd Thursday of each month -- 8:30 am to 9:30 am
Upcoming workshop dates: Nov 10
4th & Battery Building - 2401 Fourth Avenue, Suite 450, Seattle
Have you been in business for a while? Are you ready to incorporate? Hire employees? Want to know more about payroll, benefits, and human resources? If you need to make informed decisions about growing your business, this workshop is for you. Key information covered: 1) Contractor versus employee; 2) Keeping current on ever changing tax rules; 3) Payroll software and business owner options; 4) Strategies to empower yourself as an entrepreneur.
Please pre-register by calling 206-553-2664 or e-mail workshops@sba.gov
SBA and SCORE also offer a variety of other workshops for small business owners – find out more here: http://www.sba.gov/about-offices-content/2/3157
Explore Self-Employment and Learn How to Start Your Own Business!
http://nwwbc.seattleccd.com/node/81
Self Employment may not be for everyone, but if you think that you have the experience, interest, and motivation, these workshops can be an important first step towards a successful new beginning. This workshop will give you an opportunity to assess your skills in order to determine if self employment is a realistic option for you.
3rd Monday of each month
Where: Worksource – Oak Harbor
Cost: FREE!
For more information or to register, contact the Northwest Washington Business Center at (425) 423-9090 or infonwwbc@seattleccd.com.
Seattle SCORE Workshops
http://seattle.score.org/events
SCORE offers workshops designed to give you the skills necessary to start your own successful business.
Nov 2, Dec 7 -- Starting a New Business
4th & Battery Building - 2401 Fourth Avenue, Suite 450, Seattle
Starting Your Own Business -- Spokane SBDC
http://wsbdc.org/class-detail?classid=371
The Spokane SBDC is now offering a Starting Your Own Business Seminar in Spokane the 3rd Wednesday of each month, starting September 21. If you have considered starting your own business, or are ready to jump start a small business you already have, you may want to attend this one evening seminar. Please register on the SBDC website training calendar http://wsbdc.org/training-calendar or use the direct link in the class title. If you have difficulty with on line registration or have other registration questions contact Cindy Doyl at cdoyl@wsu.edu or 509-358-7890.
Oct 19 – 6:00 – 8:30 pm
(Every Third Wednesday from 6 - 8:30 pm)
Cost: $36
Held at the Spokane Small Business Development Center
665 N Riverpoint Blvd., Suite 201, Spokane WA 99202
Spokane SCORE Workshops
http://www.scorespokane.org/workshops.php
Spokane Regional Business Center (SRBC), 801 W. Riverside Avenue, Suite 444, Spokane
Financial Record Keeping – Oct 26
How to Start a New Business – Nov 2
Cost: $40 if registered in advance
Check website for current listings and registration information.
Employer's Introduction to L&I Workshops
http://www.lni.wa.gov/Safety/TrainTools/Workshops/Available/EmpOrien/default.asp
This workshop is designed for new businesses or businesses that plan to hire workers for the first time. It explains an employer’s rights and responsibilities and provides an overview of the services and resources available at Labor and Industries.
Nov 9 – Mt. Vernon – 9am – 12 pm
Nov 17 -- Tacoma – 1:00 – 3:30 pm
IRS Updates & News Releases:
Did you know? One of the best ways to get information is by visiting the IRS Small Business Tax Center where you can learn everything from how to get an Employer Identification Number (EIN) online to how to best navigate an audit.
Tax Extension Reminder: Don't Overlook Special Individual and Small Business Tax Benefits; Choose e-file, e-pay
http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=247198,00.html
The Internal Revenue Service urges taxpayers whose tax-filing extensions run out soon to double check their returns for expanded individual and business tax benefits, and then file their returns electronically using IRS e-file or the Free File system. Many of the nearly 10.1 million taxpayers who requested an automatic six-month extension this year have yet to file. IRS e-file is fast, accurate and secure, making it an ideal option for those rushing to meet the Oct. 17 deadline that applies to most people who requested extensions, or the special Oct. 31 deadline that applies to many taxpayers affected by recent natural disasters.
Most taxpayers qualify for e-file regardless of whether they prepare their returns themselves or use a paid preparer and regardless of whether they live in the United States or abroad. In addition, those with incomes at or below $58,000 can file their returns for free using the Free File link on IRS.gov. Taxpayers who file electronically can also e-pay by authorizing an electronic funds withdrawal or making a credit card payment.
IRS Announces New Voluntary Worker Classification Settlement Program; Past Payroll Tax Relief Provided to Employers Who Reclassify Their Workers
http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=246203,00.html
The Internal Revenue Service has launched a new program that will enable many employers to resolve past worker classification issues and achieve certainty under the tax law at a low cost by voluntarily reclassifying their workers. This new program will allow employers the opportunity to get into compliance by making a minimal payment covering past payroll tax obligations rather than waiting for an IRS audit. This is part of a larger “Fresh Start” initiative at the IRS to help taxpayers and businesses address their tax responsibilities.
“This settlement program provides certainty and relief to employers in an important area,” said IRS Commissioner Doug Shulman. “This is part of a wider effort to help taxpayers and businesses to help give them a fresh start with their tax obligations.”
The new Voluntary Classification Settlement Program (VCSP) is designed to increase tax compliance and reduce burden for employers by providing greater certainty for employers, workers and the government. Under the program, eligible employers can obtain substantial relief from federal payroll taxes they may have owed for the past, if they prospectively treat workers as employees. The VCSP is available to many businesses, tax-exempt organizations and government entities that currently erroneously treat their workers or a class or group of workers as nonemployees or independent contractors, and now want to correctly treat these workers as employees. See the full article for details on which employers are eligible to participate.
What Employers Need to Know About Claiming the Small Business Health Care Tax Credit
http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=246605,00.html
Many small employers that pay at least half of the premiums for employee health insurance coverage under a qualifying arrangement may be eligible for the small business health care tax credit. This credit can enable small businesses and small tax-exempt organizations to offer health insurance coverage for the first time. It also helps those already offering health insurance coverage to maintain the coverage they already have. The credit is specifically targeted to help small businesses and tax-exempt organizations that primarily employ 25 or fewer workers with average income of $50,000 or less. See the full article for what small employers need to know so they don’t miss out on the credit for tax year 2010.
IRS Issues Guidance to Further Implement Return Preparer Oversight
http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=246227,00.html
The Internal Revenue Service has provided additional clarification for tax return preparers about when to renew their preparer tax identification numbers (PTINs), how suitability testing will be conducted, and when the continuing education requirement will begin. Notice 2011-80 provides that PTINs must now be renewed on a calendar year basis. All PTIN holders must renew their numbers using the online PTIN application or paper Form W-12 and pay the required fee ($64.25 for 2012) after Oct. 15 and before Jan. 1 annually. The return preparer initiative requires anyone who is paid to prepare all or substantially all of any federal tax return or claim for refund to register with the IRS and obtain a PTIN. Certain preparers also must pass a competency examination, undergo a suitability check and complete continuing education courses annually. The IRS will designate individuals who meet these requirements as a Registered Tax Return Preparer. Individuals designated as a Registered Tax Return Preparer will be authorized to prepare federal tax returns and claims for refunds and to represent their clients during an IRS examination of a tax return or claim for refund that the individual signed as the paid tax return preparer. The notice also clarifies a number of other issues.
Recent Articles from e-News for Small Businesses
Update on heavy highway vehicle use tax
A new video outlines recent changes for filing Form 2290, Heavy Highway Vehicle Use Tax return.
Reminder: Federal Payroll Tax Deposits must be made electronically
As of Jan. 31, 2011, using Federal Payroll Tax Deposit coupons F8109 or F8109B is no longer a deposit option. Federal tax deposits must be made electronically. Payments mailed to the Federal Tax Deposit mailbox in St. Louis are being returned.
Notice 2011-81 provides the 2011-2012 special per diem rates for taxpayers to use in substantiating the amount of ordinary and necessary business expenses incurred while traveling away from home.
IR-2011-94, IRS Shows Continued Progress on International Tax Evasion
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