Our Small Biz World Blog

Reduce Your Stress In The New Year A Little Bit At A Time!

2014-01-01T11:22:00.000-05:00

“The trouble with always trying to preserve the health of the body is that it is so difficult to do without destroying the health of the mind.” - Gilbert K. Chesterton

Maintaining a healthy mind and body is so important to achieve maximum success in life or business. For example, many people have made resolutions to lose weight, to join a gym, or to quit smoking. These are great goals to strive for, however, a person shouldn’t wait for a particular occasion like New Year’s Day to make these decisions. The stress with these situations happen when a person feels they bit off more than they could chew or feel the strain of physical exertion now taking a toll on their body. I’m not one who makes regular New Year’s resolutions, but do believe that change is good when implemented properly. Most medical problems arise because of legal issues that are out of a person’s hands. They tend to react negatively by neglecting their overall health.

Overeating, legal issues, excessive drinking, ongoing or underlying medical problems, lack of exercise, and sleep deprivation are potential factors for increased stress, among many others. Often times, people don’t know who to call or don’t know where to find the answers to assist them with their issues. I’m glad that LegalShield and AmeriDoc 24/7 Doc Rx are not only services I get paid very well to market to consumers and businesses, but are benefits I use to help keep my stress levels down. My wife and I can talk to a multi-million dollar law firm for whatever we want, whenever we want, with no limits or surprises for the about price of a bottle of water a day. We also can talk to a qualified physician who’s familiar with our medical histories without ever having to leave our home for the price of another bottle of water a day.

Companies are starting to take notice about work-place stress and what it does for reduced productivity by offering wellness benefits to their staffs. From employees taking time off of work to deal with legal issues to workers being stuck in crowded emergency rooms on company time and receiving high medical bills that can cause high stress-related issues as well. If you’re experiencing legal issues and you don’t know how to solve them or need a more-personal medical service that you can utilize from the comfort of your phone or webcam, then I can help you! Don’t go through 2014 carrying that old legal and medical baggage over from last year. Contact me so I can help you put a plan in place that will help you worry-free and with less stress, sleep better at night, protect your family, business, and employees, all for the price of about 2-bottles of water a day! Isn’t your family and business worth protecting?

Please fill out the “LEARN MORE” Form at the top if you would like more information about my business or this article.

G. L. Giddings, Executive Director

GLG and Associates LLP

The POWER Group Organization Team

http://glgiddings.com

Quit Worrying About Things You Have No Control Over

2013-10-21T10:30:00.000-04:00

“Trust yourself, you know more than you think you do.” - Benjamin Spock

Whether it’s in life or business, many people fail or cause themselves unnecessary problems and heartaches

because they tend to worry about things they don’t have control over. People focus too much on what others think of them or even simple things such as how the weather will be tomorrow. I have a simple philosophy I that live by and it helps me tremendously: “Whatever happened yesterday is done and I can’t change it. I’ll worry about tomorrow when it gets here. My focus is on today because it’s where I am right now.” If you begin to worry about things out of the ordinary, especially those you have no control over, you can begin to lose trust with your inner self.

I feel there are only 3 things you have control over: how you think, your daily activities, and when you do them. Everything is subjected to other’s opinions about you and how you do it. My mother used to have a say when I was younger that “one monkey don’t stop no show!” In other words, because someone has an opinion about you or what you do doesn’t mean you should stop doing what makes you happy. You have to learn how to stand your ground because no one’s going to do it for you better than you! No one will protect your best interests more than you. So why should you let other’s opinion affect how you go about your daily activities? Who cares about them more than YOU?!

When this happens, you are setting yourself up for failure because it’s hard to build confidence in your abilities when you begin to doubt them. You’re becoming a “mental time-bomb” ready to explode with negativity. This can be contagious to your surroundings like your family, friends, and business associates. Remember that it’s OK to make mistakes because it’s part of human nature and that you will never be perfect at everything. Relax and take deep breaths when things don’t seem to go your way. When you begin to stop worrying about the inevitable, you’ll learn how to handle your problems while figuring out meaningful ways to overcome your negative thoughts.

G. L. Giddings, Director

GLG and Associates LLP

The POWER Group Organization Team

Office: (502) 209-TEAM {8326}

http://ibosocial.com/thepgoteam

*Download this educational information I’ve prepared about the Affordable Care Act: “What Everyone Needs To Know About Healthcare Reform”: http://ibourl.net/healthcarereformfacts

Why Great Customer Service Will Save Your Business!

2013-10-18T10:21:00.001-04:00

“There is only one boss. The customer. And he can fire everybody in the company from the chairman on down, simply by spending his money somewhere else.” - Sam Walton, Wal-Mart Corporation founder

Most professions tend to forget the most important part of the sales process – customer service. The Wikipedia definition of customer service is “the provision of service to customers before, during and after a purchase”. It is the thing that leads to more sales, more referrals, and more possibilities. I’m glad to be a part of a business that this is the #1 focus of the company. Many doctors don’t have any type of “bed-side” manners to care properly for their patient’s feelings. Other professions tend to focus on how to get into your pockets without any thought of how to help you with your long-term issues. As a LegalShield Independent Associate, I talk to or correspond with individuals, families, business owners, employees, and commercial drivers on a daily basis. My primary goal is to build a “relationship” with them FIRST, then introduce them to my services. I’m never going to “drown them” with my opportunity or service. If you ask the right questions, eventually, you’ll see when and how you should share your company’s vital information. I want my clients to immediately have a “WOW! Experience”.

Customer service involves being upfront right from the start for every entrepreneur. Matter of fact, I focus on “serving” my prospects so they will eventually turn into clients, recruits, or both. I tend to do exactly the opposite as everyone else, even other LegalShield associates. My philosophy is “if you don’t treat your prospects the right way, then I will!” My customers love working with me because I approach them with sincerity and care. People now a days can “smell fake” a mile away and it definitely isn’t a good look for anyone. I actually have turned business away or denied a new recruiting prospect because I felt there was going to be an issue with “their own creditability”. I do not believe in “chasing money”. I’m in the business to “sort”, not “convince”. You can’t please everyone, and it isn’t in my character to try. However, I do believe in working with individuals and businesses who see real value in what I have to offer. I don’t have time (or patience) to convince anyone. That isn’t providing customer service; that’s selling to survive!

Providing great customer service leads to customer loyalty. Once I market a membership to a new client, I make it a point to “touch base” and keep them informed about what’s going on in the company and industry. You can do this by using product-based marketing and retention systems, emails, phone calls, etc. They will appreciate that you are going the extra mile to make their sales experience with you a memorable one. But nothing beats a simple face-to-face meeting, a warm hand shake, and a bright smile. And if they are too far from you to physically do that, get creative. Do a desk top share on your computer or a Skype call with them so they can see who they’re working with. If you put customer service at the top of your sales process, you will see your business change so much that it’ll make your head spin. Now is the time to take your business to the next level with great customer service and watch your income explode in 2014!

G. L. Giddings, Director

GLG and Associates LLP

The POWER Group Organization Team

Office: (502) 209-TEAM {8326}

http://ibosocial.com/thepgoteam

Negativity Will Ruin Your Business (If You Let It)!

2013-10-05T09:49:00.000-04:00

“The five essential entrepreneurial skills for success: Concentration, Discrimination, Organization, Innovation and Communication.” - Harold S. Geneen

When I read this quote about success, I immediately thought to myself if I have achieved each of these areas. After careful recollection of my past experiences, including my failures (and I’ve had many), I concluded that I’m well on my way to achieving the success I want. Years ago at a training I attended, I once heard one of my mentors who is the 2nd highest paid associate in LegalShield say, “If you want to make more money than me, then go out and get more “NO’s” than me!” At the time, I thought he was being pretty cynical and snide. It was very early in my years with the company and for all the time I’ve been a business person, I never heard a statement like that. But it changed my perception, outlook, and business sense from that point on!

This is where I began to think differently about my goals and how I was going to achieve them. I knew I needed to talk to more prospects without a care if they said no to me. My job wasn’t to “sell” to everyone but to “expose” them to my service and how it can help their families and companies. I had to work through the no’s to get to the “yesses”. Every time someone gave me a “no” I knew I was that much closer to that “yes”. I had to completely concentrate (focus) on the tasks at hand and be discriminate with the choices I made to complete them. I’ve always been pretty organized, but needed to do a better job at it. Without “reinventing the wheel”, using technology and some basic common sense, I’ve become innovative in my own right by how I present my business and myself to my prospects. I also worked to improve my personal methods of effective communication to my teams as well as my business prospects.

Personal development is a great tool to improve yourself and all 5 of these attributes helped me shape the way I live my life. I’ve developed a kind of “bullet-proof mentality” over the years and I use it to my advantage. No potential client or recruit can “ruffle my feathers” because they don’t see things the way I do. And it definitely doesn’t faze me at all when people tell me they’re not interested in what I have to share with them. If you let negativity affect the way you operate, you’ll never achieve the success to carry on with reaching your goals. Always remember that YOU are the CEO and President of YOUR business. Focus on the positive aspects of your business and everything else will take care of itself.

G. L. Giddings
CEO/President/Executive Director
GLG and Associates LLP
The POWER Group Organization Team
Office: (502) 209-TEAM {8326}
http://ibourl.net/glg

P.S. - Save yourself a lot of money and read my article about the Tax Advantages of Owning a Home-Based Business: http://ibourl.net/taxadv (PDF)

21st Century Leadership Made Easy

2013-09-27T11:18:00.000-04:00

Between my many roles from management in various jobs to serving in the U.S. Air Force to running my own company today, I think I have a pretty good grasp on what leadership is. But just like technology changes from moment to moment and becomes obsolete quickly, leadership styles can also take that same path. We have to be open-minded to the many changes the home-based and direct selling industries make at any given time and learn to adapt to them whenever necessary.

G. L. Giddings, Director

GLG and Associates LLP

The POWER Group Organization Team

Office: (502) 209-TEAM {8326}

garner@legalshieldassociate.com

http://ibourl.net/glg

Click here to see why Uncle Sam wants you to start a home-based business! http://ibourl.net/whystartahbb

Interns Wanted Across North America!!

2013-03-28T11:06:00.000-04:00

GLG and Associates LLP, a specialized benefits brokerage firm in Southern Indiana, has exceptional internship opportunities for entry-level professionals and college students. We are seeking high-energy individuals to provide marketing support on key brands in analysis, research, brand development, sales, communications, promotions, and strategic marketing concepts. This is a 12-week, paid internship.

Click here to see our PDF file of our unique virtual internship program: http://ibourl.com/1kpg

Instructions for application: Review the GLG and Associates LLP Internship Program PDF, follow the directions at the top of the application (download from page 4 of PDF). Complete and email back to our office at garner@legalshield.com If you don't have a SIGN tab at the right-hand top area of the PDF, then print out pages 1, 2, 5, and 6, scan them, then email to us. Be sure to put your name and BEST phone number and email address on it. Please attach a resume and send to glgandassociatesllp@usa.com. We will review it then call you for a short phone interview.

We are looking for interns for the Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter semesters. Our next cycles begins on April 1, 2013. You must be a resident of the U.S. and Canada to be eligible for this internship program.

Here’s Why Uncle Sam Wants You To Start A Business!

2013-03-13T09:47:00.001-04:00

(Reprinted from article written by Sharon Lechter, CPA)

A lot has been said about the many tax advantages of starting your own business. Let’s start with the tax incentives. It’s no secret to anyone that the tax laws are written to promote business ownership. So what do what the rich do. Start your own business and take advantage of the favorable tax advantages that come with owning a business.

Build First, Pay Taxes Last

The difference between the employees and the business owner is that the employee pays taxes FIRST on what they earn and then get to live on whatever is left over. The business owner spends their earnings to build their business FIRST and then pays taxes on what is left. The business owner will always pay less tax than the employee simply because they can reduce the income amount they have to pay tax on. This enable the business owner to grow their business faster and for the business to generate investment dollars quicker.

That is also why there is such an advantage in starting a direct selling business versus a traditional business from scratch. You can immediately begin earning, instead of spending, the time and money to set up the back office administration, product development, advertising, and other functions that are often necessary when you begin a new business.

Tax Advantages of a Home-Based Business

To take advantage of these deductions, the tax code states that these expenses need to be only “ordinary and necessary” and that your business needs to be one in which you are endeavoring to make a profit. Here are some of the other business deductions you may be able to take advantage of:

· Home office expenses (repair, maintenance, property taxes)

· Business equipment (computers, cell phones)

· Office supplies

· Internet and telephone services

· Software and subscriptions

· Mileage and other auto expenses

· Travel, meals, and entertainment

Proper Documentation a Must

Don’t be afraid to take advantage of these deductions. As long as your expenses follow the tax code guidelines and you retain proper documentation to back-up the expenses, you will be protected in the rare case of an audit.

G. L. Giddings, Director

GLG and Associates, LLP

The POWER Group Organization Team

http://ibourl.com/17hk

Office: (502) 209-TEAM {8326}

The 4 Pillars of Business

2012-12-07T09:47:00.004-05:00

By G. L. Giddings

If you are going to operate any type of business, you need to understand the (4) pillars of business because not having just one of them can be the difference between SUCCESS and FAILURE! This is the reason why over 90% of businesses fail within their first 5-years. You can remember them easily if you use the acronym “LIMP”:

1. Lawyers (Legal), 2. Investment (Money),

3. Marketing (Advertising), and 4. Product (Sales)

As a business owner, you will need legal services to have contracts and documents reviewed, find out what your rights are about certain situations, or need to ask questions about your business set up. You may want to know how to leave your company to a loved one through a Last Will and Testament, find out how to take advantages of tax situations, or maybe you want to protect your employees and their families with legal benefits.

The investment area is very important because you need to have seed money to grow and support your business. Marketing is another part of your business that needs attention because without it, no one will ever know what you are trying to share with others or who you are. Finally, you have to have a product or service. Without it, you really don’t have a business. Now is the time to educate yourself before you are found not in compliance with state and federal regulations. The government and the IRS could care less if you’re not familiar with the many laws and tax codes for small businesses. What they care about is that you are following the laws to their specifications or they will penalize and fine you. Do your homework and rethink your strategies to make sure that your business is covered in these critical situations.

G. L. Giddings, Executive Director

GLG and Associates, LLP

The POWER Group Organization Team

http://ibourl.com/17hk

Office: (502) 209-TEAM {8326}

Please “LIKE” our Facebook Biz Page at http://facebook.com/glgandassociatesllp!

Overcoming Objections

2012-11-16T13:01:00.002-05:00

By G. L. Giddings

If you are going to be in business for yourself, overcoming objections is something you will face multiple times in your career. There are many objections a person may give to you from a plain “NO” to “I just don’t want it”. I’ve found that you can master almost any objection by helping them understand why they said no in the first place. Maybe you didn’t explain your service well enough for them to grasp the concept, or they may know you personally and don’t feel comfortable with you because of your relationship to them.

Most of the time, when a person says “no”, it isn’t anything personal. Maybe the timing just isn’t right for them, or they don’t have the funds or can’t afford another bill at this time. They could be having some type of family crisis going on at home that will prevent them from getting involved with what you are trying to show them. Through experience, you will develop ways to turn “no’s” into that “yes” you want, but only with a lot of PRACTICE! A tip I use when someone buys from me, gives me referrals, or even says that dreadful “no” is to ask them, “May I keep you informed as to how my business is doing?” Almost everyone will say “YES”, so even when you don’t make the sale or recruit the new prospect, you can keep them in your “pipeline” and reintroduce them to your service or opportunity at a later date.

Most of the people I ever shared my business with that told me “no” eventually bought my service or became an associate because I keep them “informed” with what was going on with the business and industry at least once every 30 to 60 days afterwards. The may not have needed my service or even wanted additional income at first, but their situations changed and now they were ready. So unless they tell you an unequivocal, flat out “NO”, keep in touch with them via a monthly newsletter, or occasional phone call. You’ll be surprised as to how many people will appreciate you keeping them in the loop, while you continue to grow your business!

G. L. Giddings, Executive Director
GLG and Associates, LLP
The POWER Group Organization Team
Office: (502) 209-TEAM {8326}

Please “LIKE” our Facebook Fan Page at facebook.com/glgandassociatesllp !

Growing Your Business This Holiday Season

2012-10-31T11:05:00.003-04:00

By G. L. Giddings

The holiday season is here and with Christmas right around the corner, people are looking for viable ways to earn some additional income to help with their shopping, vacations, etc. How many people do you know that’s “open-minded” to an opportunity to make an extra $500 to $1,000 between now and Christmas? Everywhere you look, there’s someone look for that opportunity; it may be your opportunity!

Now is the time to get out of your “comfort zone” and reach out to those individuals and share with them your service or business. Remember, it may or may not be for them. If you offer a service that can help them save money, you are on your way to helping a lot of people. Saving money is a value-proposition that consumers need to stay competitive in today’s financial crisis.

Whenever you can give someone added value to their families well-being, it creates a WIN-WIN-WIN for everyone involved. You may have sold a product or service that is desperately needed in the marketplace, while giving a person the opportunity to prosper financially.

G. L. Giddings, Director

GLG and Associates, LLP

The POWER Group Organization Team

Office: (502) 209-TEAM {8326}

Please “LIKE” our Facebook Biz Page at http://facebook.com/glgandassociatesllp!

Click here to receive a FREE tool from me to promote your businesses! http://ibourl.com/174u

What Is Your Business “Plan of Action”?

2012-10-16T09:41:00.001-04:00

By G. L. Giddings

No matter where you are in your business opportunity, this is the time to reflect on the leadership skills that will be required of you along your career path. Take time to review your current career goals and plan and ask yourself a couple of important questions:

•Will my plan of action provide the experiences and professional development I need to achieve my goals? (Another words: “PLAN, DO, and REVIEW”!)

•Do I have a track record of high-level performance? If not, what do I need to do to get better? (PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT – read a chapter of a good book a day.)

•Do I have the right mentors to help me adjust my career plan and develop the skills I need most? (TELL ME; SHOW ME; LET ME; GROW ME!)

•Am I knowledgeable about my personal style, motivations and capabilities, and their effect on others? Would personal coaching help me become a better people leader? (FIND A WORKOUT PARTNER.)

•What adjustments in my personal commitment and accountability must I make in order to successfully reach my personal and business goals? (INSPECT WHAT YOU EXPECT!)

•Am I focused on my RESULTS or my MONEY-MAKING ACTIVITIES? (Setting in-person appointments, booking professional presentations, making phone calls, etc. Stop focusing on your RESULTS and start focusing on the ACTIVITY!)

Once you have the answer to these questions, you can better decide where to better spend your time developing your leadership skills and how to effectively grow your team and business.

Leaders Aren’t Born, But Bred!

2012-10-16T09:31:00.005-04:00

By G. L. Giddings

Companies, teams, and organizations are always "sorting for leaders"! The most effective leaders prepare for higher levels of leadership throughout their careers. Very few people will claim pure luck for their success, or being in the “right place at the right time”, or they just magically making things happen. It's said that “Luck happens when PREPARATION meets OPPORTUNITY.”

Among the most important leadership responsibilities are effective communication with your organization, setting appropriate strategic visions, inspiring engagement and action on focused priorities, and successfully leading the team through the toughest challenges. Many “so-called” leaders haven’t developed the skills necessary to successfully lead with these important responsibilities.

Here Are (5) Critical Elements of Leadership Development:

1. Your Experiences (“What you've done in the past?” versus “What you are doing right now?”)

2. Personal Performance (You have to be in it to WIN it!)

3. Personal development (Reading a chapter of a good book a day; staying plugged into trainings, conference calls, briefings, etc.)

4. Mentoring & Coaching (Create an ACTION SYSTEM’s Training program for your team to follow; “SYSTEM” stands for “SAVING YOUR SELF TIME, ENERGY, & MONEY!”)

5. Commitment & Accountability (INSPECT what you EXPECT!)

Find leaders that “fit” your company’s personality. Get in the habit of “SORTING FOR LEADERS”, not convincing others to become one. You will find that prospects who sincerely want to be a part of your business opportunity will work towards the overall goal of the organization. You’ll have more success and less headaches in reaching your goals and dreams. TEAM = Together Everyone Achieves More!

What Are You Doing To GROW Your Social Networks?

2012-10-13T13:47:00.001-04:00

By G. L. Giddings

If you are online for any considerable amount of time, whether it be a laptop, smartphone, or PC, chances are that you are involved in some sort of SOCIAL MEDIA NETWORK. There are so many, I can't keep track of them: Twitter, Facebook, MeetUp, LinkedIn, and many others. And as much as I love to meet people on these great mediums, I sometimes get discouraged because as a small business owner, I rely on these networks to make meaningful connections that can help me online.

About a week ago, I was introduced to a network called IBOSocial. IBO stands for "Independent Business Owners" and once I registered for the free account, I began to start meeting people right away, even before I had my profile all set up and running. IBOSocial has a host of great marketing tools that you can use like a URL shortener, you can add videos, post press releases, and many other things that will take me all day to share.

It allows you to build a network of fresh leads, contacts, and great friendships that I am finding very helpful. It's definitely fast-paced and a little knowledge in "copying and pasting" will definitely go a long way as I can't keep up with the various requests I receive from the network. This is great for me because I wanted to basically meet new individuals who may be interested in my particular services. If you are looking for a way to gain additional connections for your business opportunities, small business, or just want to meet some really great individuals, then consider joining and getting a free account. You have nothing to lose and so much to gain! Have FUN with your new IBO Social Network and I will soon see you on "The Wall"!

Get your IBO Social Network FREE account today by clicking the TOP banner on the RIGHT of this page!

G. L. Giddings is the owner of GLG and Associates, LLP and "Our Small Biz World Blog" in Southern Indiana.

AS SEEN ON NATIONAL TV!

2012-08-07T09:39:00.000-04:00

This is going to be insane -- in a good way -- but only for those who are working to build their LegalShield business!

HELP WANTED!: Due to predicted flood of business, we are looking for motivated individuals to help us service future clients AND get the word out to all individuals and small businesses who will be interested in LegalShield after seeing TV commercials set to air nationally within the next few weeks.

Work from HOME and position yourself to get paid DAILY! Earn upfront income as well as long-term renewal income for life. Small business and employee group benefit plans are available.

List of channels and shows LegalShield is currently airing on in San Diego, CA, Phoenix, AZ, Charlotte, NC, and Denver, CO: WAXN 64 Eyewitness News at 10; WBTV3 Morning News; WBTV Late News and during Dave Letterman; WCCB 18 News Rising; "Everybody Loves Raymond", News Edge & 10pm News and "How I Met Your Mother", WCNC 36 Early News during the Today Show & Olympics, late news, Jay Leno Show, Jimmy Fallon. WSOC 9 Late News, "Nightline", Jimmy Kimmel, AEN, APL, History Channel ("Pawn Stars" & "American Pickers"), Life Channel, TLC, Bravo, Comedy Channel, Golf Channel, Family Channel...(and a list similar to this for the next 9 weeks!)

Who do you know in these areas that is looking to earn additional income, needs to get their Wills updated, or may be looking for a career change? Contact me ASAP to learn more!

Even if YOU are curious to learn more about our service OR are interested in earning an extra $500 a month or more, call or email me and I will answer all of your questions!!

"Opportunities don't go away; they just pass you by!"

G. L. Giddings, Director
GLG and Associates, LLP
The POWER Group Organization Team

LegalShield Independent Associates
Business: (502) 209 TEAM {8326}
garner@legalshield.com
http://legalshieldvideo.com

"You can have everything you want if you help enough people get what they want!" Zig Zieglar

10 Tax Deductions for Home Based Businesses

2012-03-13T17:39:00.000-04:00

Posted by Ivan Widjaya

One of the greatest advantages to working for yourself through a home-based business is the many tax deductions that can be claimed against your federal tax obligations. Valuable information concerning the rules that apply to each of the following categories can be found on the IRS website. At the outset of the business, have a system for saving receipts and maintaining good documentation concerning every deduction. Some small businesses are audited every year, and the business owners with good records emerge from the audit easily while others end up paying additional taxes because expenses could not be proven. Many of the following categories will apply to most home-based businesses.

1. Home Office Space – When the home office is a separate space that is used exclusively for the business operation, that percentage of the total square footage of the home can be deducted as office space. Specific calculations apply and can be found on the IRS website. For certain types of businesses, the licenses to operate in the home must be acquired prior to claiming the home as a place of business. Check local and state regulations prior to the first day of operation to avoid disqualified deductions.

2. Services and Utilities – A phone line that is installed in the business office and used exclusively for business calls is deductible. Installation charges and monthly service charges can be claimed as deductions. All long distance charges can also be deducted. Cell phone accounts can be deducted as a percentage of the actual business usage. If the cell phone is used exclusively for business, the entire expense, including the cost of the phone, can be deducted. Utility expense to heat the office and the electricity to light the office can be deducted according to the percentage of the home’s square footage used for business.

To read the entire article, click here: http://www.noobpreneur.com/2011/02/05/10-tax-deductions-for-home-based-businesses/

The Importance of Having a Last Will and Testament

2012-03-09T12:34:00.001-05:00

By G. L. Giddings

A Last Will and Testament is the MOST important legal document you will ever sign in your lifetime, IF you take the time and effort to get it completed! Approximately 80% of all Americans do not have an updated Will. The average Last Will and Testament averages $500 to $6,000 from a non-LegalShield attorney. LegalShield offers all of its members a FREE and comprehensive Last Will and Testament, a Living Will, and a Durable Healthcare Power of Attorney for owning the LegalShield membership. Here is a BIG reason why you should get your Last Will done; to protect the ones you love and care for like your family while you are ALIVE versus having them deal with expensive probate issues when you DIE.

The Financial Costs of Not Having A Last Will and Testament
Some people think that a Last Will and Testament is something that can be done later in life, or that their estate or family situation doesn’t warrant the time and effort to create one. Estate planners, probate authors, and scholars have written and lectured time and time again about the legal need to have a Last Will and Testament in place to transfer your assets when you die, but the financial need may be the one thing that finally encourages some to get their Will done. Keep this in mind: Bad things happen to good people and no one is promised to be here tomorrow!! (For example, accidents and injuries that result in death, illnesses, weather, natural disaster, etc.)

Here is why probating an estate is almost always MORE EXPENSIVE to manage WITHOUT a Last Will and Testament:
Let’s look at a very simple estate case. For example, say you are an individual with no children with an estate worth only $20,000. Maybe you own a car or have some other personal property to leave behind. When you die with a Last Will and Testament that states to whom your estate is to be distributed to is pretty “cut and dry” in probate court. Your estate may pay legal fees of approximately $750 to $1000 and the probate process would end quickly.

Take that same example if you do not have a Will in place. Now, your legal fees will go up because of an increase in paperwork and the need to interview potential witnesses, and your estate will now have to pay for a second attorney (known as an Attorney Ad Litem) to represent the heirs of the estate. The Probate Judge doesn’t know if you have kids living out of state, or even if they live close by, so an attorney is hired by the estate to make that determination. In a nutshell, the attorney fees will go up closer to $1,500 to $2,500 and the Attorney Ad Litem fees will be from $400-$1,000 depending on the estate.

For example, in the state of Texas, the application filed with the probate court will require a posting in the local newspaper, at the very least, announcing that the application was filed and that all heirs of the deceased must come forward immediately to make their claim to the estate, even if there are no known legal heirs at that time. Now add another $200 to $300 to the estate expenses to pay for the newspaper posting!

You can expect to spend between $2,000 to $4,000 to probate an estate with no Last Will and Testament, or pay $750 to $1,000 to probate an estate with a Will in-place. On the lower end, an intestate estate (one without a Will) costs $1,350 more to probate; on the high end it may cost $2,700 more to probate an estate without a Last Will and Testament. These numbers are just averages and could go lower or higher depending on your particular estate and the state laws where you live.

Complications will increase costs even more when there are minor heirs (which may be your own nieces and nephews or grandchildren) or you own properties in more than one state. A court ordered trust has to be created and a corporate trustee is paid an annual fee to manage the trust assets. Your estate may have to pay for two probate actions in the separate states where you own property. And don’t forget that someone will have to go to court annually as to serve as guardian of the minors to file an annual accounting (with additional attorney fees incurring every time) in those states.

Do your family, the people you care for, and yourself a HUGE favor. Complete your Last Will and Testament to protect your family even if the intent is to just give all of your estate to one or more persons. Having a Last Will and Testament in place when you die saves your estate and your family more money than what you will spend on getting it done, plus it give them additional “peace of mind”.

You will sleep better knowing that your family will be taken care of in the event of your untimely demise.
Remember, the Last Will is FREE with the LegalShield membership! More than likely, you will save more money by getting it completed NOW and also using your membership than you would have ever paid for the $17 to $39 monthly fees of our Life Events Legal Plan membership for a lifetime! No one wants to talk about death, but it’s much easier to handle your probate issues while you are LIVING than when you’re DECEASED! And you never have worry about the HIGH HOURLY COSTS, plus the $500 to $6,000 fees traditional attorneys charge to complete a Last Will and Testament.

Don’t wait till it’s too late to get your Will done! It’s very easy to do. To learn more about the LegalShield Life Events Legal Plan Membership and/or to enroll, please contact:

The POWER Group Organization Team
LegalShield Independent Associates
Business: (502) 209-TEAM

To read more about information about LegalShield and The POWER Group Organization Team, please click here! http://venturestreet.com/thepgoteam

What Cloud Computing Really Means

2012-02-16T10:38:00.006-05:00

The next big trend sounds nebulous,

but it's not so fuzzy when you view the value
proposition from the perspective of IT professionals

By Eric Knorr, Galen Gruman | InfoWorld

Cloud computing is all the rage. "It's become the phrase du jour," says Gartner senior analyst Ben Pring, echoing many of his peers. The problem is that (as with Web 2.0) everyone seems to have a different definition.

As a metaphor for the Internet, "the cloud" is a familiar cliché, but when combined with "computing," the meaning gets bigger and fuzzier. Some analysts and vendors define cloud computing narrowly as an updated version of utility computing: basically virtual servers available over the Internet. Others go very broad, arguing anything you consume outside the firewall is "in the cloud," including conventional outsourcing.

Cloud computing comes into focus only when you think about what IT always needs: a way to increase capacity or add capabilities on the fly without investing in new infrastructure, training new personnel, or licensing new software. Cloud computing encompasses any subscription-based or pay-per-use service that, in real time over the Internet, extends IT's existing capabilities.

To read the entire article, click here: http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=7907847164679305709

2012: Year of the Skimmer

2012-01-18T10:30:00.002-05:00

Fraud Losses to Increase; Mag-Stripe Vulnerabilities to Blame
By Tracy Kitten, January 18, 2012

Fraud losses linked to card skimming are quickly hitting epidemic proportions. Robert Siciliano, a security expert and McAfee consultant, says 2012 will be to skimming what 2011 was to the hacker and hacktivist. "2012 will be the Year of the Skimmer," he says. "Skimming fraud is an epidemic," says Mike Urban, who oversees product management for Fiserv's Financial Crimes division. "And it continues to grow every year."

Some big skimming cases have grabbed headlines in recent months. Last June, four men were charged for their alleged involvement in a $1.5 million ATM skimming scheme that targeted Citibank and JPMorgan Chase ATMs in New York, Chicago and Miami. And 28 suspects were indicted in November for their alleged connection to an organized credit-card skimming ring that recruited waiters and waitresses at high-end restaurants in Manhattan to collect card details from American Express accountholders. Card skimming itself is relatively simple. "It's very low-tech," Urban says.

To read the entire article, click here: http://www.bankinfosecurity.com/articles.php?art_id=4417&rf=2012-01-18-eb&elq=bfc58a74b5204885bb25f0936a6ba29b&elqCampaignId

Fighting high health insurance costs with qualified high deductible health plans and health savings accounts

2012-01-14T09:28:00.001-05:00

By Jared Balis, For the Deseret News

The combination of health savings accounts (HSAs) and qualified high deductible health plans (QHDHPs) has proven to be a powerful weapon in the battle of rising health insurance costs. Because consumers who use this solution have an opportunity to save hundreds and even thousands of dollars on health insurance premiums, these plans have become increasingly popular with Utah residents since their introduction in 2003.

Here are four compelling points to consider using an HSA and QHDHP:

You may be able to significantly lower your monthly health insurance cost by switching to a qualified high deductible health plan.
Consider depositing a portion, or all, of your monthly premium savings into your health savings account and use the funds to pay for qualified medical expenses with tax-free money.
Many HSA-eligible health plans cover 100 percent of your medical expenses after you meet the deductible, leaving you with a clear knowledge of your maximum out-of-pocket expenses in a given year.
The balance in your health savings account rolls over from year to year, letting the balance grow. It's not a "use it or lose it" account, like a Section 125 Cafeteria Plan.

In order to take advantage of these benefits, you must participate in the two components that combine to make up the final solution.

In order to be eligible to use a health savings account, you must purchase a qualified high deductible health plan. “Qualified” simply means that your health plan meets the IRS guidelines to be used with a tax-advantaged health savings account. As the name suggests, these plans have high deductibles, typically ranging from $1,200 to $5,000 per year for individuals and $2,400 to $10,000 per year for families. This health plan becomes your primary and sole health insurance plan.
Once you’ve setup a qualified high deductible health plan, you are eligible to open a health savings account. An HSA is simply a checking account that is labeled “tax advantaged.” Most banks and credit unions offer HSAs. In addition, many health insurance companies that offer QHDHPs offer HSAs through their preferred vendors.

To read the entire article, click here: http://www.deseretnews.com/article/705394741/Fighting-high-health-insurance-costs-with-qualified-high-deductible-health-plans-and-health-savings.html

What's "Cloud Computing" All About?

2012-01-07T10:56:00.003-05:00

Cloud computing is a technology that uses the internet and central remote servers to maintain data and applications. Cloud computing allows consumers and businesses to use applications without installation and access their personal files at any computer with internet access. This technology allows for much more efficient computing by centralizing storage, memory, processing and bandwidth.

A simple example of cloud computing is Yahoo email, Gmail, or Hotmail etc. You don't need a software or a server to use them. All a consumer would need is just an internet connection and you can start sending emails. The server and email management software is all on the cloud ( internet) and is totally managed by the cloud service provider Yahoo , Google, etc. The consumer gets to use the software alone and enjoy the benefits. The analogy is , 'If you need milk , would you buy a cow ?' All the users or consumers need is to get the benefits of using the software or hardware of the computer like sending emails etc. Just to get this benefit (milk) why should a consumer buy a (cow) software /hardware ?

Cloud computing is broken down into three segments: "application", "storage", and "connectivity". Each segment serves a different purpose and offers different products for businesses and individuals around the world. In June 2011, a study conducted by VersionOne found that 91% of senior IT professionals actually don't know what cloud computing is and two-thirds of senior finance professionals are clear by the concept, highlighting the young nature of the technology. In Sept 2011, an Aberdeen Group study found that disciplined companies achieved on average an 68% increase in their IT expense because cloud computing and only a 10% reduction in data center power costs.

^{To read the entire article, click here: http://www.wikinvest.com/concept/Cloud_Computing}

Feds Bust $2 Million Fraud Scam

2011-12-26T10:36:00.001-05:00

Bank Insiders Key to Alleged ID Theft Scheme

By Tracy Kitten, December 22, 2011

U.S. federal authorities have indicted 55 suspects for their alleged involvement in an identity-theft and financial crime ring that used insiders at banks, a non-profit institution, a high-end car dealership and a real-estate management company to steal personally identifiable information from more than 200 individuals and organizations.

According to charges filed by the Manhattan District Attorney, stolen names, dates of birth, addresses, Social Security numbers and financial information were used through a variety of schemes to defraud victims and financial institutions. Between May 2010 and September 2011, the New York crime ring is accused of stealing more than $2 million from JPMorgan Chase Bank, TD Bank, Citibank, Discover and American Express. The charges include conspiracy to commit grand larceny, grand larceny, criminal possession of stolen property, identity theft and criminal possession of a forged instrument.

The 18-month investigation, which relied on court-ordered eavesdropping, physical surveillance, computer forensics and analysis of credit card, banking and phone records, remains open.

"Today's indictment reveals another tool of organized identity thieves - insiders who betray their employers and prey on clients," said Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus R. Vance in a statement about the case. "These insiders used their positions to gain access to client data, and then sold that data to make money for themselves and their accomplices."

To read the entire article, click here: http://www.bankinfosecurity.com/articles.php?art_id=4350&rf=2011-12-22-eb&elq=2089d9f1275c4a69a721677f9c7f3d06&elqCampaignId=1034

Zeus Variant Can Defeat Two-Factor Authentication

2011-12-23T16:36:00.000-05:00

By Tracy Kitten, December 2, 2011

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has issued a warning about a new Zeus malware attack targeting commercial bank accounts, ultimately leading to incidents of corporate account takeover. The Zeus variant used: a malware called Gameover, which the FBI says is able to defeat several forms of dual-factor authentication.

To protect themselves, the FBI suggests consumers and businesses pay attention to suspicious e-mails. In the case of the Gameover attacks, e-mails purporting to come from NACHA-The Electronic Payments Association contained malicious links. NACHA does not traditionally send e-mails directly to businesses or consumers. Receipt of a direct e-mail from an organization such as NACHA should raise a red flag.

But according to the FBI's Denver Cyber Squad, it's not just phishy emails and dual-factor get-arounds that have made the Gameover attacks forces to be reckoned with. As it turns out, the fraudsters behind this scheme combined a number of tactics, including the use of money mules and denial of service attacks, to con businesses and banks out of funds.

To read the entire article, click here: http://ffiec.bankinfosecurity.com/articles.php?art_id=4295&rf=2011-12-02-eb&elq=5209da99abcc4e7b8fa7af3303c5ca23&elqCampaignId=904

D.C. gridlock seen as big threat to small business

2011-12-22T11:11:00.000-05:00

By John W. Schoen, Senior Producer

Michael Osborn, president of Pie 'N Burger International, at his restaurant in Pasadena, California. Small businesses are worried about the economy in 2012, and many blame Washington for the problems.

Corey Shaker is hoping to sell a lot more cars next year. The biggest roadblock he sees is the ongoing political gridlock in Washington, D.C. Shaker, CEO of Hometown Auto Retailers, a dealership chain based in Waterbury, Conn., has reason to be optimistic about 2012. After falling sharply in the 2007-09 Great Recession, car sales are bouncing back. New high-mileage models are drawing owners of aging clunkers to his showrooms. The downturn forced many of his competitors out of business, generating higher sales for dealers left standing.

But Shaker said some potential customers may have second thoughts about buying because of government gridlock and bickering among lawmakers.

“Consumer confidence moves the economy,” he said. “The biggest single thing they can do (in Washington) to boost the economy is to boost confidence. And to do that, consumers have to believe that there is leadership that can get their act together to make the spending cuts on stuff we don't need.”

To read the entire article, click here: http://bottomline.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2011/12/19/9563940-dc-gridlock-seen-as-big-threat-to-small-business

10 Winter & Holiday Travel Tips to Melt Your Worries Away

2011-12-20T18:09:00.000-05:00

It's no secret that winter and holiday travel can be the most stressful occasion. Especially when the hustle and bustle of holiday travel starts, people become more distressed with long waits and unexpected challenges. If you travel by air or car during the cold season, you can count on more delays than you'd experience in the summer. Once bad weather appears during the peak times for air travel, we end up with the lengthiest flight delays, cancellations and missed connections of the year.

On the other hand, road travel has its share of annoyances and risks. There may be road closings, slower speeds due to snow or sleet, traffic accidents and other obstacles to throw you off track. However, don't let the winter and holiday travel season make you blue. Become a smarter and happier traveler for your next winter vacations — use TravelSense's winter travel tips to make life easier as you journey to and from your destination.

To read the entire article, click here: http://www.travelsense.org/tips/wintertraveltips.cfm

'Dismal' prospects: 1 in 2 Americans are now poor or low income

2011-12-16T18:22:00.002-05:00

By Associated Press

WASHINGTON - Squeezed by rising living costs, a record number of Americans — nearly 1 in 2 — have fallen into poverty or are scraping by on earnings that classify them as low income.

The latest census data depict a middle class that's shrinking as unemployment stays high and the government's safety net frays. The new numbers follow years of stagnating wages for the middle class that have hurt millions of workers and families.

"Safety net programs such as food stamps and tax credits kept poverty from rising even higher in 2010, but for many low-income families with work-related and medical expenses, they are considered too 'rich' to qualify," said Sheldon Danziger, a University of Michigan public policy professor who specializes in poverty.

"The reality is that prospects for the poor and the near poor are dismal," he said. "If Congress and the states make further cuts, we can expect the number of poor and low-income families to rise for the next several years."

Study: 1 in 5 American children lives in poverty

Congressional Republicans and Democrats are sparring over legislation that would renew a Social Security payroll tax cut, part of a year-end political showdown over economic priorities that could also trim unemployment benefits, freeze federal pay and reduce entitlement spending.

To read the entire article, click here: http://usnews.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2011/12/15/9461848-dismal-prospects-1-in-2-americans-are-now-poor-or-low-income