2015

Showing 641–656 of 732 results

  • Should you revamp your sales compensation model?

    Winter 2015
    Newsletter: Auto Focus

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 814

    Abstract: The Internet has fundamentally changed the role of the automobile salesperson. When customers walking in the door already know which vehicle they want to buy and how much they will pay for it, this tends to minimize the need for a traditional salesperson. Given this, many dealerships are re-examining the proper role of their salespeople, as well as their sales compensation model. This article discusses a sales model that combines base salary with performance-based incentive pay. It also offers a few guidelines for constructing a sales compensation plan, while a sidebar looks at what automobile dealership salespeople across the United States earn.

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  • You’ve inherited a large sum of money … now what?

    January / February 2015
    Newsletter: Planning for Prosperity / Wealth Management Advisor

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 324

    Abstract: Nearly $30 trillion will pass from one generation to the next during the next 30 years, according to a recent study. But, for those who are fortunate enough to receive a significant inheritance, the large influx of cash can greatly alter their financial situation and thus the strategies that are appropriate. This article advises that such a recipient first put the money into a liquid account while mulling their options — and then go over those options with an expert financial advisor.

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  • It’s not too late! Boosting retirement savings with catch-up contributions

    January / February 2015
    Newsletter: Planning for Prosperity / Wealth Management Advisor

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 608

    Abstract: For workers 50 or older who are late to the savings game, it’s not necessarily too late to look forward to a secure retirement. This article explains how catch-up contributions to IRAs and 401(k)s can accelerate one’s progress, along with options available for the self-employed.

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  • The BDIT – Realize estate planning benefits while retaining control

    January / February 2015
    Newsletter: Planning for Prosperity / Wealth Management Advisor

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 685

    Abstract: After spending a lifetime building one’s net worth, it’s normal to not want to give up control of property, as is required for certain estate and asset protection strategies. A relatively new trust — the beneficiary defective inheritor’s trust (BDIT) — avoids this drawback. This article describes how a BDIT accomplishes this, and how it’s structured to be intentionally “income tax defective,” making it possible to produce significant estate planning benefits.

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  • Take the alternative route – Alternative investments seek to balance portfolio risk and return

    January / February 2015
    Newsletter: Planning for Prosperity / Wealth Management Advisor

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 841

    Abstract: Alternative investments (or “alternatives”) have gone mainstream in recent years. Hedge funds and hedging strategies, such as long-short, increasingly are becoming popular with investors seeking better diversification and risk-adjusted returns. That said, alternatives involve unique risks and aren’t appropriate for every investor. But not all alternatives increase portfolio volatility — some are designed to lower it. This article examines some of the various types of alternatives.

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  • Practice Notes – How to flourish as an independent practitioner

    Winter 2015
    Newsletter: Rx for Practice Management / Practice Management Advisor

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 420

    Abstract: While the trend is clearly toward physician employment by hospitals and health plans, many doctors would prefer to practice independently for as long as possible. So what does it mean to be independent and how can one stay that way? This article notes that the dream is more manageable when five components are in place: fiscal strength, care coordination, risk assumption, competitive advantage and embracement of change.

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  • Choose malpractice coverage wisely

    Winter 2015
    Newsletter: Rx for Practice Management / Practice Management Advisor

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 659

    Abstract: All physicians must have malpractice insurance. But all policies aren’t alike. It’s critical to choose one that fits the practice’s needs. Otherwise, the practice could find itself in a tenuous financial and legal situation should someone be sued. This article describes different types of coverage, such as claims-made, tail and nose policies. It also looks at policy provisions that should be carefully examined and offers tips for selecting a carrier.

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  • Digging through employment law issues

    Winter 2015
    Newsletter: Rx for Practice Management / Practice Management Advisor

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 623

    Abstract: Every physician group is subject to numerous federal and state employment laws. Several issues have become the focus of recent enforcement activities against health care employers, but there are ways physician practices can protect themselves. This article looks at ways to deal with wage and hour issues, leave of absence policies, pregnancy discrimination, and criminal records.

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  • Preparing to sell a medical practice: 3 key steps

    Winter 2015
    Newsletter: Rx for Practice Management / Practice Management Advisor

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 809

    Abstract: Whether a physician is considering selling his or her medical practice or has already made a firm decision to do so, three key preparation steps can help ensure a successful outcome. This article describes how to benchmark practice performance, review physician-owner payments and expenses, and prepare strategic and financial plans. As a sidebar explains, it’s also possible to consider a traditional SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats) analysis of the practice’s operating environment.

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  • Newsbits – Charity Navigator evaluates major philanthropic markets

    Winter 2015
    Newsletter: Profitable Solutions for Nonprofits

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 420

    Abstract: In this issue, “Newsbits” looks at a Charity Navigator report on the performance of the 30 largest U.S. philanthropic marketplaces; a new FASB standard involving service concession arrangements and that could affect NFP accounting; a Technology Association of Georgia event in which “hackers” helped develop mobile apps or websites for participating nonprofits; and a report that online charitable giving to nonprofits jumped 8% for the first half of 2014.

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  • Do your part for donors – IRS substantiation rules apply to contributors

    Winter 2015
    Newsletter: Profitable Solutions for Nonprofits

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 585

    Abstract: With donors gearing up for tax-filing season, it’s not too late for not-for-profits to make sure that they’re following the IRS donation “substantiation rules” so that their benefactors have the proof they need to deduct financial gifts. Proper documentation is also crucial so that donors don’t have any future problems with the IRS. This article explains what the IRS requires to document various levels of gifts and offers a real-life example of the consequences of not closely adhering to the rules.

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  • Are you ready for the Omni Circular?

    Winter 2015
    Newsletter: Profitable Solutions for Nonprofits

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 674

    Abstract: The Office of Management and Budget’s (OMB’s) so-called Omni Circular supersedes and streamlines requirements from eight existing circulars that apply to federal awards. This article explains that, although the new audit threshold has received much of the attention, nonprofits that receive federal awards should be aware of other significant changes that take effect for new contracts starting after Dec. 26, 2014. They include significant reforms to the cost principles and procedures regarding the monitoring of award subrecipients, maintaining effective internal control over the award, and demonstrating successful performance.

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  • Building a stronger internal audit function

    Winter 2015
    Newsletter: Profitable Solutions for Nonprofits

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 822

    Abstract: In recent years, nonprofits have been the target of increased scrutiny over governance, accountability and compliance. Despite this, many organizations dismiss the importance of their internal audit function. This isn’t a wise move. Tight budgets notwithstanding, nonprofits can’t afford mistakes or fraud incidents as a result of a weak or nonexistent internal audit function. This article describes the role of internal audit, what the auditors do, and factors that ensure the effectiveness of the internal audit function. A sidebar notes that savvy organizations have also begun to tap internal audit for strategic purposes.

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  • Your employee reimbursement plan may violate the ACA

    Winter 2015
    Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 442

    Abstract: In 2015, many midsize or larger employers, including nonprofits, must offer an affordable, minimum level of health insurance coverage to full-time employees — or risk financial penalties. Smaller employers are required to inform employees about their health insurance options. But other elements of the ACA are less straightforward and have proven confusing for some organizations. As this article explains, employers that don’t provide insurance but offer to reimburse employees for coverage obtained elsewhere may not be in compliance.

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  • Lifesaver or liability? Limiting risk associated with volunteers

    Winter 2015
    Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 558

    Abstract: For many nonprofits on tight budgets, operating without the assistance of volunteers is out of the question. Unfortunately, nonprofits that direct and benefit from the actions of their unpaid workforce can be held accountable if volunteers are harmed or harm others on the job. This article explores how nonprofits can potentially reduce liability. They’re advised to treat volunteers as potential employees during the recruiting process and provide appropriate supervision, training and policies.

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  • How COSO helps nonprofits bolster internal controls

    Winter 2015
    Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 607

    Abstract: For more than two decades, COSO — a joint initiative of several professional accounting groups — has provided for-profit companies with guidance on designing and maintaining internal controls. COSO recently revised its original framework with the release of Internal Control — Integrated Framework. As this article explains, not all of the updated framework will apply to nonprofits, but the new guidance can provide a structure for organizations trying to establish, strengthen or assess their internal controls.

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