Small Business General

Dana Said:

How hard is it to handle your own accounting for your small business (general contractor)?

We Answered:

Start off with Quicken. If you outgrow Quicken, upgrade to Quickbooks Simple Start.

Gertrude Said:

I would like to start a small general contracting business but I don't know how or where to start.?

We Answered:

Go to City Hall in your city and talk to their Redevelopment Department. They will be able to provide you with the info you need. If you're a college student you could probably get an internship as they hire a lot of interns. They may have other jobs in the department that could get you started while you learn what else you need to do. If you want to move to a different city check their Human Resources Department for jobs.

Margaret Said:

Starting small business.. need general info on my taxes and how employee taxes work for me?

We Answered:

One way is to get a good accountant.

The way I do it with my businesses is I use a payroll company. Not sure what is available in your area, just check your yellow pages. I use Advantage payroll. This way I never have to look at or file ANY forms with the state or with the IRS. It's all handled by the payroll company for me. So nice not to have to worry about deadlines and properly filling out forms and such.

Some national payroll companies include:
www.advantagepayroll.com
www.paychex.com

The nice thing about using a payroll company is that you never have to worry about IRS or state tax problems. The payroll companies handle everything for you, make sure all forms are filed on time and even guarantee their service. It's by far the safest way to do payroll and in my opinion worth the prices they charge.

Even for only 1 employee (I own 2 companies with 1 employee each) I find it well worth it.

Ronnie Said:

what are some good things to keep in mind when looking for a good general small business lawyer?

We Answered:

Your local bank manager (yes they do still exist) should be able to put you in touch with some local lawyers in your town, they'll be used to dealing with small businesses in your area and will generally have some good contacts in other fields of business. Have a chat with the lawyers as it won't cost you anything to start with, get some prices on the work you require and see if you like them.

Daniel Said:

How to start a small general shop business with very less fund?

We Answered:

Rent an in older shopping center in like a
smaller country town. You would want to
have a shop that will not be too big in
size eithier.

Discuss It!