Ask SmallBizClub

We are currently running Windows XP and are considering leasing computers from Mac/Apple, is it worth it?

QuickBooks, Office, and other business software for Macs can be purchased; however, other than the efficiencies of Macs with heavy graphics and similar uses, we are not aware of any particular advantage that Macs have over PCs in the area of reliability, speed, life, or long-term cost of ownership.

Are there any plans that are HSA compatible and also Obamacare compatible?

Risk | Bill Wortman

Some of the bronze level plans available through the federal and state (where available) health insurance marketplaces or exchanges qualify as HSA compatible HDHPs; however, we recommend that you work with a local qualified health insurance agent or broker to help you locate an HSA compatible HDHP…

How do I get a Dun & Bradstreet number for my new greeting card business?

Starting a Business | Bill Wortman

Just like with other types of products, there is significant competition for shelf space at retailers to display greeting cards – gift shops, grocery stores, drug stores, department stores, etc. Also, the approved supplier and purchasing processes vary based on the size and type of retailer – independent, franchise, national chain, etc.

Can employers still reimburse employees for individual health plans under ACA as they could in prior years?

Tax & Accounting | Rick Gossett

Beginning in 2014, employers can no longer reimburse employees for their substantiated premiums for individual health insurance coverage on a tax-favored basis under a benefit plan meeting the requirements of IRC Section 106 and Revenue Ruling 61-146.

What factors are involved in outsourcing overseas when it comes to tax and accounting?

Tax & Accounting | Rick Gossett

Amounts paid to IT developers or other business service providers in foreign countries are qualified business expenses. Also, if a foreign worker, or firm, does not physically conduct any business activities in the U.S., then you generally would not have U.S. income tax withholding or payroll cost implications.

How can I sell one of my restaurants as a franchise?

Legal | Bill Wortman

If you are planning to sell more franchises, then franchising your restaurant concept will be a consideration. However, if you are not planning to expand your restaurant business beyond the two current locations, then a form of partnership or other business structure may be a consideration with your lawyer rather than establishing a franchise system.

What CRM software should we use to help us track our relationships with current clients and prospects?

Marketing | Ed Fox

We have reviewed the capabilities of the Salesforce CRM product and compared those to your stated needs as per your question. This product should certainly meet the needs of your business. We have provided below the various Salesforce pricing and edition options for their CRM software solution as well as a review board for the Salesforce CRM products.

Which Point-of-Sale systems should I purchase for my small operation?

Sales | Rick Gossett

Many companies offer retail POS systems or software that read bar code; however, accounting and inventory control applications must be integrated or linked with any POS system or software, which affects your POS system or software solutions. Also, your accounting and inventory needs and budget will impact the type of POS system you select.

Can we dock employees pay for poor work quality?

Human Resources | Bill Wortman

As a general rule, the Federal Fair Labor Standards Act, or FLSA, prohibits docking the pay of employees (nonexempt or exempt) for poor quality work or work resulting in rework. Nonexempt employees are employees who are subject to the FLSA’s minimum wage and overtime pay requirements and are typically paid on an hourly basis.

What would be the best payment arrangement to a project manager to assure they are working and not billing us for being on the job and not there?

Technology | Rick Gossett

It is common for construction companies to require project managers and other employees to submit a form of weekly timesheet in order to accurately track labor time, costs, and profitability of each project.