Latest Articles

February 17, 2017 

One reason our goals fall by the wayside is that we often just think about them. We internalize what we want to accomplish but don’t write it down or share it with anyone. This keeps things simple, but it also increases the chance of failure.

Jim Boomer

February 17, 2017 

In 2017, when it comes to sales tax, states are taking stances on everything from soda to streaming content, tobacco to tampons. The New Year will also bring renewed efforts by states to implement internet sales taxes and continue the legal battle to ...

Kerry Alexander

February 17, 2017 

The fundamentals are the same as they have always been: ample margin, adequate top line sales, minimize expenses, collect cash quickly, and if you choose, make the best of OPM (other people’s money) by creative bill payment, financing and special ...

Randy Johnston

February 17, 2017 

It’s no secret that a robust professional development program is beneficial for accounting professionals, but managers also reap rewards when they invest in employees. Your workers become more knowledgeable, which means they’re able to contribute ...

Paul McDonald

February 17, 2017 

Mark Radetic, CPA, CGMA, managing partner, MarksNelson MarksNelson is Innovative! When you look at innovation and where we’re at you have to go back to where it changed. Five to six years ago we had a number of partners, including some of our rainmakers, getting towards retirement. We wanted to remain independent (not merge with...…

February 17, 2017 

Payroll processes are fraught with potential errors, and they can be costly for a small business or an accounting firm managing payroll for them. Here are some tips on what to do, and not do, that can streamline payroll functions and ensure compliance.

Luke Reynebeau

February 17, 2017 

As a trusted advisor to your clients, you’ve probably gotten your share of questions about the new Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) overtime regulations or “Final Rule” and the latest court ruling blocking the Final Rule from taking effect.

Aldor Delp

February 17, 2017 

Right now, accountants are meeting with clients to prepare taxes. This is a great time for accountants and payroll professionals to assess 2016 and make plans to ensure compliance moving into 2017. With the impending changes and uncertainty ...

Taija Sparkman

February 17, 2017 

When you can anticipate the questions your clients will ask, it’s likely your meetings will go smoothly. We asked Linda Freeman, tax partner at MarksNelson, about the types of questions clients are asking as they meet with their accountants to review ...

February 17, 2017 

How do you start your day? I start my day off with some exercise, often some running, have my breakfast - a bowl of oatmeal or cereal - and then head into office. I arrive at the office between 6:30 and 7:00 a.m.

February 17, 2017 

Checklist of top things to share with your clients this month. Margo Hoegler, CPA, manager in accounting services with MarksNelson A lot of your small business client discussions this month will be around tax or personal finance issues, but this is also a great time to share tips for starting the new year in a...…

February 17, 2017 

There have been times in my life when I’ve tried to reinvent myself. There was the winter I decided to be recognized for my hats and started wearing wide-brimmed felt hats to work every day. This was in Chicago and the wind was not my friend.