Contractor
Showing 337–352 of 390 results
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Construction Success Story – Contractor goes paperless with IWA system
September / October 2009
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 437
Abstract: This month’s Construction Success Story tells of one contractor who had been pondering the idea of going paperless but hadn’t found the right tool to help her do so. When she asked her CPA for ideas, he mentioned imaging and workflow automation (IWA) systems. He explained that many business owners, including contractors, have been using IWA systems to streamline their invoice and accounts payable processes.
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On-the-job training provides lasting returns
September / October 2009
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 477
Abstract: A contractor will benefit clients, employees and itself by providing on-the-job training at every level. Sure, it takes time and money, but not as much as one might think — and the results can mean a more efficient company and bigger profits. Knowledgeable employees work faster and better; in the end, they’ll make the company more money. Plus, an employee who feels valued is more likely to stick around, helping to decrease turnover. But many managers get promoted to leadership positions because they are hard workers and great at their jobs, not because they’re natural or skilled leaders. So it’s important to ease the transition and the learning curve by creating opportunities for new managers to learn from experienced leaders within the company.
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The inside scoop on the manufacturers’ deduction
September / October 2009
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 492
Abstract: Many contractors have been taking advantage of a useful break with a somewhat misleading name: the manufacturers’ deduction, which provides a tax break for many businesses besides manufacturers — including contractors. Certain kinds of construction activities qualify for the deduction, which will be increasing in 2010.
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Employee benefits – Self-funded health insurance may be a healthy option
September / October 2009
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 1009
Abstract: Because of rapidly rising health insurance premiums and shrinking budgets, some contractors are choosing to forgo offering health care benefits to their employees as a way to save money in a down economy. But a number of alternatives can reduce their financial burden while still giving their employees access to the health care services they need. One such route is the self-funded health insurance plan. This article discusses how it differs from commercial insurance, the risks and rewards, and the obligations involved. A sidebar discusses what to look for when choosing a third-party administrator for a plan.
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Construction Success Story – Contractor learns the ins of out-of-state projects
July / August 2009
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 364
Abstract: A contractor who had established a successful commercial electrical systems installation and repair business in his home state was considering bidding on jobs in neighboring states. At face value, it seemed like a great way to increase revenue and ultimately expand his business. Before venturing too far afield, however, the contractor ran the idea by his financial advisor, who explained that each state has its own laws and requirements for taxes, workers’ compensation, licenses, insurance and bonding.
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Employment update – E-Verify system now required for federal projects
July / August 2009
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 673
Abstract: E-Verify, the free, Internet-based system that matches an employee’s Social Security number to his or her I-9, has become a requirement for the growing number of contractors taking on federal projects. This article describes who is required to sign on, how to do so, and the pros and cons of the system. A sidebar discusses new I-9 guidelines.
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3 tips on improving communication (and keeping your sanity)
July / August 2009
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 527
Abstract: Today, it may seem as if you have too little communication — or too much. Here are three ways to help you be sure that communication enhances your business instead of crippling it.
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Turning bad news into good with an NOL deduction
July / August 2009
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 521
Abstract: No one likes losses, but a net operating loss (NOL) may help your construction company because you can use it to offset past tax payments through carryback provisions or reduce future tax liabilities through carryforward provisions. Historically, a company could carry back an NOL two years and forward 20 years. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA), however, increased the carryback period to five years for many 2008 NOLs. This article can help you determine if you qualify and whether you should carry a loss backward or forward.
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Have assets you need to buy? Give these depreciation-related tax breaks a try
July / August 2009
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 948
Abstract: Times are tight. If you need to buy assets but are understandably concerned about keeping expenses down, provisions of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) could help ease this tough decision. ARRA has extended both the 50% depreciation bonus and the Section 179 expensing deduction, which are especially advantageous when used together. A sidebar discusses the benefits of timekeeping software.
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Construction Success Story – Contractor learns benefits of a business appraisal
May / June 2009
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 392
Abstract: In this issue’s “Construction Success Story,” we tell the tale of a contractor with a five-year-old commercial construction business who was faced with growing competition in his sector — and only a vague idea of his current competitive standing. After learning a fellow construction business owner had learned a lot about his company following an appraisal, the contractor asked his financial advisor about the benefits of the valuation process.
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Same equipment, smaller investment – Rental/leasing agreements offer a variety of potential advantages
May / June 2009
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 727
Abstract: Investing in high-end machinery can be a big financial burden — especially in a down economy. That’s why more and more contractors are seeking to minimize costs by renting or leasing their equipment. This article explains that, beyond the obvious cost savings, equipment rental or leasing provides several important benefits worth considering.
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3 simple steps to more effective scope management
May / June 2009
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 499
Abstract: More than just a theory, scope management provides contractors with a plan for staying on-task and on-budget. And adopting a plan for scope management doesn’t require a major overhaul to a construction company owner’s current management style. This article describes three simple steps to improving a construction company’s scope management.
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Do you know where your money goes? Job costing software can help
May / June 2009
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 516
Abstract: When it comes to the money spent and made on a project, what contractors don’t know can hurt them. Upgrading to job costing software could provide a construction company owner with the details needed to streamline spending and control costs. This article provides some buying tips for this highly practical technology tool.
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Control your debt (so it won’t control you)
May / June 2009
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 954
Abstract: As fuel costs fluctuate and project income becomes less reliable, contractors are increasing their debt load in record numbers. In fact, most contractors have come to depend on debt as a source of liquidity to keep their operations running smoothly. Yet, in an unstable economy, having a plan for managing debt is vital — especially now that bankruptcy is more common than ever. This article offers some tips on putting together just such a plan.
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Construction Success Story – E-permitting saves contractor time, money and mileage
March / April 2009
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 335
Abstract: This issue’s Construction Success Story tells the tale of a paving contractor who was juggling multiple projects and growing increasingly tired of having to drive to City Hall to obtain the required permits. His financial advisor suggested he try e-permitting, which allows local building departments to accept permit applications, review plans, schedule inspections, and calculate and collect fees electronically.
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Reviewing EESA’s energy tax-break extensions
March / April 2009
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 623
Abstract: This past fall, in passing legislation to bail out the struggling banking industry, Congress also acted to encourage contractors and owners to continue their efforts in energy-efficient building. The Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 (EESA) extended many tax credits and deductions for energy efficiency. Although this is hardly news, it’s still a good idea to review EESA’s changes as you work your way into 2009. This article covers the law’s pertinent provisions.