Category: Content

In April 2021, a Nevada court found David Gilbert Saffron guilty of committing ‘cryptocurrency fraud and misappropriation.’ As part of the judgment, Saffron will have to pay back $32 million to all those he defrauded. Defraud may be one of the most severe cases of cryptocurrency fraud we’ve seen lately, but it’s far from the first and won’t be the last. 

As cryptocurrency trading rises in popularity across the digital world, so do scams and other cybercrime involving crypto. When cryptocurrency first rose to prominence on the internet, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) quickly warned against the various scams involved. 

Types of Cryptocurrency Scams

Several such scams are just modern takes on classic illegal schemes. For example, the CFTC warned traders about pump-and-dump schemes, where scammers would bulk buy a particular cryptocurrency while its value is low, then release false news about a rich celebrity or organization investing in it, thus increasing the price. They would sell back their stock when the price was high, netting a substantial profit. The currency would fall in value once people realized they had been scammed. 

Other scammers have posed as cryptocurrency trading outlets, inciting less informed traders to hand over their money, hoping to see profitable returns, but they never do. 

Giveaway scams have become very popular on social media platforms, namely Telegram, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Scammers will post fake videos and images from well-known corporations and celebrities, encouraging people to invest in cryptocurrency. These posts will feature hyperlinks leading to websites that look like authentic crypto-trading platforms but are designed to steal your cryptocurrency, bank information, and other personal data. 

Scammers may use data breaches on official platforms to obtain personal data and information about you. They’ll then use this data to extort money, or more recently cryptocurrency, out of victims.

Some scammers conduct employment scams. They post fake job postings online to gather personal data from applicants, which they then use to steal their cryptocurrency.  

Not all illegal activity surrounding cryptocurrency trading is as complex, however. Some more insidious hackers will hack into people’s virtual wallets and steal the cryptocurrency people have accumulated. 

According to The North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA), cryptocurrency fraud is one of the significant threats to investors right now. 

Advice From the U.S Government

Stay informed

Scammers have been using the Covid-19 pandemic to take advantage of people. The government advises citizens to remain informed about cryptocurrency and the pandemic in general, as scammers can spread false information to commit fraud. 

If something is too good to be true, it probably is

This one might sound too pessimistic, but a bit of skepticism can go a long way in such uncertain times. Be wary of any service asking for personal information, and know who you’re sending money, gift cards, or cryptocurrency to before sending it. 

Don’t act immediately

Take all the time you need to assess your options and fully understand what kind of service you’re offering. A legitimate service would gladly assist and inform you if a service agent seems to be forcing your hand toward giving them your money and personal data. 

Advice from a Reputable Crypto-trading Platform

Since its launch in 2012, Coinbase has established itself as a leading name in the cryptocurrency industry, gaining the trust of both experienced and beginner traders.

 

To ensure a safe trading experience, Coinbase encourages users to be vigilant and protect their sensitive information. It’s important not to share any personal details with individuals claiming to be support staff or employees of a crypto platform, and never grant anyone remote access to your device.

 

Additionally, Coinbase emphasizes the importance of being cautious when approached by anyone asking you to send small amounts of cryptocurrency with the promise of receiving more in return. These types of offers are often scams, and it’s best to avoid them.

 

The platform also recommends maintaining a healthy skepticism toward investment offers that claim unreasonably high returns. If something sounds too good to be true, proceed with caution.

 

For those looking to invest in cryptocurrency, Coinbase advises thoroughly researching any platform before making a purchase. Engaging with company staff is beneficial, but seeking insights from experienced traders can provide valuable perspectives and enhance decision-making.

An Educated Buyer is a Happy Buyer

With the boom the crypto market is seeing right now, it’s no surprise how many people want to invest, but there will always be those looking to take advantage of buyers. Cryptocurrency can be an incredibly lucrative investment, but you must have an in-depth understanding of what you’re getting into. Don’t be frivolous with your money. Be patient, be informed, and hopefully, you’ll see positive returns in no time if all goes right.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Welcome to Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs), where investment opportunities meet the convenience of trading shares. ETFs, or Exchange Traded Funds, represent a dynamic intersection between traditional investment funds and the flexibility of stocks. In this guide, we’ll explore ETFs’ fundamentals, advantages, disadvantages, and key considerations for investors. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or new to the game, understanding ETFs can unlock a world of potential in the stock market. Let’s dive in and discover the power of ETFs in shaping your investment strategy.

What are ETFs

ETF stands for Exchange Traded Fund. ETFs are publicly traded investment funds that behave like shares. They can be bought and sold anytime during the stock market session.

Like the shares, their price varies throughout the trading session. In that sense, they are a mix between stocks and investment funds. The objective of the ETFs is to replicate some equity index of equities, fixed income index, raw materials, or any other.

Therefore, a single purchase copies a whole index, obtaining excellent diversification for very little money and straightforwardly. As I told you, ETFs are products very similar to mutual funds. The main differences between these and the funds are taxation and existing rates, something I will tell you later.

Advantages of ETFs

Diversification

As I have already mentioned, when you buy shares in an ETF, you “buy” an entire stock index. So, if you choose one replicating the IBEX 35, you automatically purchase shares of 35 companies at a stroke, obtaining spectacular diversification.

On the other hand, ETFs also allow you to invest effortlessly in unknown or emerging countries to diversify geographically. With a well-built portfolio, your diversification will be maximum.

Low Commissions

Despite being very similar to investment funds, ETFs charge low management fees. You can even find ETFs that charge a ridiculous 0.10% annually on your money. Costs are essential when determining profitability, so this aspect is a clear advantage of the quoted funds.

High Liquidity

Like the shares, the ETF has excellent liquidity, especially if referencing an essential primary market.

They are Effortless to Acquire

There are many different ETFs; most can be purchased from your bank for a lifetime. It is as easy to buy ETFs as stocks or investment funds. Of course, before buying, you must always be sure of the broker’s commission since banks like Santander or Caixa charge much more than banks like ING.

There is No Minimum Investment Amount

Some funds require a minimum of money to invest, not like ETFs.

Of course, buying an ETF implies a commission, so if you make a purchase that is too low, the commission loss will be excessive.

Investment genius Warren Buffett has recommended that his wife invest all his money in ETFs when he dies because of their simplicity and profitability.

Disadvantages of ETFs

Although ETFs are a perfect option, they cannot be all advantages. I don’t have an ETF in my investment portfolio; I have funds.

Diversification Has a Price

Buying the entire desired index comes at a price, and good and bad companies are accepted.

If you buy shares individually, you can choose exactly where to put your money, while if you buy an ETF, you can only choose the index and eat some companies you do not like, which may involve obtaining less profitability for your money.

They Tax as Actions

Investment funds have a significant tax advantage; you can rotate them without paying taxes. On the other hand, ETFs have the same treatment as shares, so if you sell, you will have to pay capital gains taxes. It has bought-and-sold commissions. It is the main reason I have funds and not ETFs, along with the worst taxation of ETFs regarding funds.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) offer investors a unique blend of accessibility, diversification, and flexibility in navigating the stock market. As we’ve explored the fundamentals, advantages, and disadvantages of ETFs, it’s evident that they present a compelling investment option for both seasoned investors and newcomers alike. With the ability to replicate entire stock indices, achieve diversification effortlessly, and benefit from low commissions and high liquidity, ETFs provide a gateway to a world of investment opportunities.

However, it’s essential to consider the potential drawbacks, such as limited control over individual stock selection and taxation implications, when incorporating ETFs into your investment strategy. Ultimately, understanding the intricacies of ETFs empowers investors to make informed decisions and unlock the full potential of their portfolios in the dynamic landscape of the stock market.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Starting a food processing business is no easy gig; it requires much hard work and management. It is no secret that with the change in the economy, the food processing and agriculture business opportunities are on the verge of revolving. The process of updating the whole food chain has already begun. According to recent research, total food production will likely double in the next 20 years. Keeping that in mind, here are a few decent food-producing business ideas that are worth considering.

Starting a Bakery Business

The bakery business is the most extensive commerce in the food processing region. In recent years, bakery products have been ruling markets and are highly in demand. Starting a bakery is considered one of the most profitable businesses to set up in either a rented or owned space. If a person wants to start a thriving food processing business, opening a bakery is undoubtedly a worthy option.

Making Banana Wafers

Banana wafers are “under-ripe bananas cut into slices dipped in syrup solution. “Later, they are dried in the oven and fried. Wafer bananas are highly in demand and are sold on both export and local markets.

Making of Biscuits

Even though the biscuit-making business is considered small-scale, it is undoubtedly very profitable because most people still enjoy a freshly baked biscuit, way more than factory–made ones. A person can quickly start this food processing business, even with small capital.

Starting a Bread Production

Quality bread is an excellent source for adding extra carbs and fiber to the daily diet. Properly baked bread is a product that will never go out of style. Even though many new brands provide factory-made bread, fresh quality bread will always be in demand in urban and suburban areas. The best part about starting a business is that bread-producing is simple, uncomplex, and can start with small capital.

Cashew Nut Processing

The primary manufacturing processes required for cashew nut processing are cutting, cell cooking, drying, peeling, grading, and packing. For a person looking for a profitable business that requires small machinery and capital, cashew nut processing seems like the perfect choice.

Cheesecake Production Business

Cheesecakes are easy to make and only require a short list of ingredients, such as sugar, cheese, flour, wheat, eggs, vegetable oil, salt, strawberries, artificial color, essence, etc. These cakes are versatile and come in many different flavors. If someone wants to start a small business, creating a cheesecake-making business is worth a shot.

Chocolate Making Business

The manufacturing procedure of chocolate varies according to the type of chocolate a person wants. The taste of chocolate will also vary based on its ingredients and production methods. The chocolate-making industry is one of the most money-making food processing businesses a person can do.

Coconut Powder Milk Production 

The coconut milk powder-making business has excellent market potential across the globe. Another fantastic fact about coconut milk powder is its long shelf life, which can last long. The coconut food processing business is profitable for new starters and entrepreneurs.

Coconut Oil Manufacturing Business

For decades, coconut oil has been used as a healthy cooking agent. In addition to cooking, coconut oil is used to make bathroom and laundry soaps, detergents, hair tonics and products, hair oil, and cosmetic products.

Conclusion

In conclusion, venturing into the food processing industry demands diligence and strategic management. With the evolving economy, food processing and agriculture opportunities are ripe for innovation and growth. As recent research indicates a potential doubling of food production in the next two decades, aspiring entrepreneurs have a wealth of promising business prospects to explore. With careful planning and execution, individuals can tap into these lucrative opportunities and contribute to the dynamic landscape of the food processing industry.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

With time, social media has taken its toll on almost everything a person does today. The rise of social media has been so inspirational that it has caused people to switch their businesses to online stores. Nowadays, having an occurrence on social media has become everyone’s necessity instead of a choice. Undoubtedly, social media provides an excellent ground for online businesses and is also a valuable tool for an HR professional. Over time, more HR professionals have begun to use social media to connect and find new talent for different positions and purposes.

HR professionals can utilize social media in multiple ways, some of which are below.

Acquiring New Talent

By correctly utilizing the power of the platforms provided by social media, HR professionals can quickly enter a large pool of applicants. Social media platforms will allow HR professionals to post job vacancies on company pages or even on different public groups. It will also help in spreading the word about the new job position. Social media also allow HR people to view candidate profiles and their random activities before calling them. Social media will let a recruiter know candidates and their views regarding their personal and professional lives.

Employer Branding

With the help of social media, human resource personnel can utilize present and past employees as brand ambassadors. It can also use social media for promotional purposes regarding a brand, such as creating social media groups to share the company’s best accomplishments and undertakings. It can also use these platforms to post promotional images, videos of the company events, company culture, success stories, etc. 

Employee Engagement

Social media has fantastic potential for keeping people engaged; HR professionals can use a social media platform to create in-hour forums that employees can use to communicate, share ideas, and collaborate. It can also use such discussions to express concerns and give logical suggestions regarding the improvement of the organization.

Through such random suggestions and conversations, HR professionals can better understand their employees‘ issues and address them adequately. HR personnel can also take advice from employees regarding company policies and improve them accordingly. Such activities allow employees to participate and discuss company policies, making them feel more responsible for the outcomes.

Productivity Enhancement

Human resource professionals can also utilize social media by asking senior and experienced employees to write company forums about their careers and work. They can use these HR blogs to post company policies, announcements, promotional events, appreciation programs, etc.

Employee Communication

Another handy use of social media, especially for big international firms, is that it will allow employees to communicate better with each other across the globe. Sharing videos and images on social platforms will help employees better display their motto rather than exchanging emails like old times.

Monitoring Employees’ Activities

HR professionals can also use these social media platforms to monitor employee activities. Using Twitter will allow HR people to see the employee messages they are posting, and following them on Facebook and LinkedIn will allow them to monitor their daily activities. However, to properly implement this, a robust social media policy must be a form that is entirely relevant and up to date based on that company’s policies. Also, any debating or controversial conversations need to be avoided at all costs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, social media’s pervasive influence has transformed not only personal interactions but also professional landscapes, particularly in the realm of human resources (HR). As businesses increasingly shift online, social media platforms have become indispensable tools for HR professionals seeking to recruit talent, enhance employer branding, engage employees, facilitate communication, boost productivity, and monitor activities. 

By harnessing the power of platforms, HR professionals can tap into vast pools of potential candidates, effectively showcase company culture, and foster a sense of community among employees. Social media not only streamline recruitment processes but also serve as vehicles for promoting organizational achievements and facilitating open dialogue between employees and management. 

Moreover, monitoring employee activities through social media enables HR professionals to maintain awareness of their workforce’s online presence while ensuring compliance with company policies and regulations. However, it’s essential to implement robust social media policies that balance monitoring with privacy rights and ethical considerations. In essence, social media offers HR professionals a multifaceted toolkit for fostering a dynamic and thriving organizational culture in the digital age.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

In several countries, it is widespread practice for the most dependable companies to offer pension plans for their employees. This is a significant benefit that contributes to increasing our heritage, but few take advantage of it correctly.

What are the Pension Plans?

Given the low replacement rates in different countries, pension plans are often offered to complement social security.

The replacement rate is the proportion you will receive from your last salary as a pension. For example, when you say that the replacement rate is 40%, it means that you will receive 40% of what you earned before your retirement when you get your retirement.

For example, the replacement rate will be less than 35% for medium and high wages. This will not be enough for many people to survive, so it becomes essential to complement it with other types of savings, such as companies’ pension plans or personal retirement plans with a fiscal stimulus.

How do Company Plans Work?

Of course, there are many different pension plans. Still, companies generally supplement the employees’ savings up to a certain percentage of their salary.

The employee chooses what percentage of his salary he wants to save, and the company contributes an equal share (up to a limit that is usually between 4 and 5% of the salary, although sometimes it depends on the person’s salary level).

Therefore, by participating in these plans, we automatically get free money contributed by the company, which we would not otherwise see. We can only obtain it if we save.

For example, suppose we save 5% of our salary each month, and the company puts another 5%. In that case, this becomes 10% of our salary, which can grow significantly since, in many cases, the returns generated for such plans are exempt from taxes. Also, the company’s amount is not considered a cumulative income for employees. In other words, it is received free of charge (although at the time of retirement, the company’s contributions plus their income may be subject to taxes).

Difference Between Pension and Private Pensions

The core difference between pensions and private ones is the employer. The federal, government, national, and local representatives get private pensions. Police officers, firefighters, and schoolteachers may have pensions. Even private companies are still offering pensions to their retired employees. Multiple timeless companies have been providing pensions since the last century. Yet, most of them have frozen their pension policies. That is why new employees cannot get this opportunity.

Private pensions are more legitimately protected than public ones. According to the law, private pension funds must have adequate funding. The government pays the Corporation of Pension Benefit Guaranty premiums to ensure their pension funds. For public pensions, you do not need such requirements. This absence of legitimate protection prevents the government from assisting all their retired officers. Ultimately, there will be a drastic change in the sector’s benefits if governments do not act.

Risks of a Pension Plan

You are wrong if you think retirement plans or pension policies work without risks. You cannot say anything about the company’s pension fund investment. You acquire insufficient funds due to bad investment decisions. As a result, the benefits will be reduced without any warning. Usually, there is no command of the company’s control while finalizing the terms and conditions for the pension plan. And it is one of the examples of risks as well. Also, it can decrease the percentage of salary for each employee. It would be the employer’s choice to reduce or enhance the employee’s pension amount than alternatives.

In public pensions, the risk is that the country will have to face different economic issues and announce bankruptcy. Then, it will reduce all the rewards for candidates’ pension plans. So, you can save that money monthly as an alternative to your pension to get protected from all the risks. You wish to have a comfortable retirement without facing a shortage of funds.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Car insurance is not merely a legal obligation; it’s a shield that protects vehicle owners and passengers from the financial fallout of unforeseen accidents. It’s a safety net beyond vehicle repairs, encompassing medical bills, personal liabilities, and peace of mind.

In this guide, we’ll delve into the multifaceted protection provided by comprehensive car insurance, emphasizing its crucial role in safeguarding all passengers, covering repairs regardless of the driver, mitigating repair costs, and offering personal coverage in unforeseen circumstances. Understanding the depth of coverage provided by car insurance is prudent and essential in confidently navigating the uncertainties of the road. 

Here are five essentials for car insurance coverage.

Caring Coverage: Ensuring Protection for Every Passenger

Comprehensive car insurance extends protection to all passengers aboard. In the event of an accident, it offers reassurance by alleviating the burden of hefty medical bills. Regardless of who sustains injuries, the policy covers medical expenses, allowing the injured parties to concentrate on their recovery journey.

Superior car insurance encompasses every aspect of medical care, from surgical procedures to rehabilitation, ensuring thorough support throughout recovery. From doctor consultations to hospital stays and rehabilitation sessions, this coverage provides peace of mind to all occupants, particularly the vehicle owner, knowing that everyone is safeguarded in case of an unfortunate incident.

Protection Beyond the Driver

Most reputable car insurance policies extend coverage to any driver operating the vehicle. This provision proves invaluable, particularly when entrusting your car to a friend or family member who might encounter an accident.

With all drivers insured under your policy, you can confidently lend your car, knowing that any potential mishaps won’t result in financial devastation. Insurance, inherently, is designed to provide peace of mind. However, this reassurance is incredibly comforting when someone else is behind the wheel.

Eases the Burden of Repair Expenses

Repair costs following an accident can skyrocket, depending on the severity and type of vehicle involved. If you’re found at fault, you’re responsible for your vehicle’s repairs and potentially for the other drivers. Thankfully, with car insurance, the worry of shouldering these financial burdens fades away as your insurance company takes care of everything for you.

Furthermore, coverage extends to single-car accidents, such as collisions with trees or encounters with wildlife like deer. In these instances, where only your vehicle is damaged, having insurance coverage ensures that all repair expenses are promptly addressed, regardless of whether the damage involves multiple vehicles, solitary incidents, or acts of nature.

Providing Essential Protection

In an ideal scenario, accidents would be rare, and both drivers involved would seamlessly handle their costs. Regrettably, reality often paints a different picture, where only one driver is covered or found at fault. However, with comprehensive insurance coverage, you’re shielded from these uncertainties.

Whether the other driver lacks sufficient coverage or is entirely uninsured, you’ll find solace knowing that your full coverage insurance covers you in any situation. Regardless of the extent of their coverage, your peace of mind remains intact, safeguarded by your insurance provisions.

Comprehensive Personal Protection

Accidents are unpredictable; despite our best efforts, some events remain beyond our control. That’s why insurance policies are designed to offer coverage for the vehicle owner and all drivers involved. In the unfortunate event of an injury, even one resulting in long-term disability, the insurance company provides a predetermined settlement amount to alleviate any financial strain on the car owner.

Personal coverage extends beyond the individual car owner. It serves as a safety net for personal liability, ensuring that your insurance steps in to cover the costs if you’re deemed responsible for an accident. Additionally, this coverage safeguards you and your vehicle in cases where the other driver is at fault but lacks proper car insurance.

Conclusion

While adhering to the minimum liability insurance mandated by states is essential, your approach to car insurance should transcend mere compliance with the law. The aftermath of a car accident can be profoundly impactful and may reshape lives in unforeseen ways. Therefore, it’s imperative to carefully evaluate various factors, including your vehicle’s value, potential risks, and desire for peace of mind while on the road.

By investing in comprehensive car insurance that extends beyond legal requirements, you protect yourself financially and equip yourself with the assurance needed to navigate the uncertainties of driving with greater confidence and security.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

A group of self-employed workers is characterized by tax obligations differentiated from the rest of the self-employed. We refer to self-employed workers registered in the Special Regime of Self-Employed Workers (RETA). Their activity is linked to an autonomous business head to whom they are related up to the second degree of consanguinity.

What are the tax obligations of the self-employed collaborator? Pay attention to the following lines.

High in the RETA of the Autonomous Collaborator 

What are the requirements for contributing to Social Security as a self-employed collaborator? This figure is subject to a series of conditions to become part of the self-employed regime:

• Direct family member means spouse, descendants, ascendants, and other relatives of the employer—consanguinity or affinity up to the second degree inclusive and, where appropriate, by adoption.
• They are employed in their center or work centers regularly, they share a place of work with the self-employed person, and it is not a punctual collaboration.
• Share the same place of residence with the self-employed owner.
• Have at least 16 years of age.

How to Manage the Registration of the Autonomous Employee in Social Security

If you do not know the method as a self-employed collaborator, you can either follow the detailed steps below or ignore the process that relies on online advice. While you think about it, we anticipate that for the registration in Social Security as a self-employed collaborator, you need to present:

• The model TA0521 / 2 corresponds to the application for registration in the special self-employed regime for a family member of the holding owner.
• Family book.
• DNI.
• Copy of registration in the Treasury of the business owner that must be the direct relative and the taxpayer, as we will see later.

Obligations with the Treasury of the Self-employed Worker

Self-employed collaborators must follow tax obligations. The collaborator does not have taxpayer economic activity status. Therefore, you do not have to register with the Treasury, and you will not have to pay IVA and IRPF quarterly. 

Among the taxes that, as a self-employed collaborator, you will have to present is the Income Tax Declaration in your taxpayer status based on the income obtained through payroll.

Obligations of the Self-employed Person with the Self-employed Worker 

We have already seen that whoever assumes the fiscal burden of the economic activity, the independent collaborator, is a subsidiary and an autonomous holder. The latter also has acquired the following obligations with the self-employed collaborator.

Make the payment of contributions to the Social Security of the self-employed collaborator. Pay your salary and deliver the corresponding payroll according to the professional category and the applicable agreement.

Obligations for Tax for Self-employment 

Self-employed people must pay this tax as it is the employer’s portion of Social Security and Medicare. Employees must pay 7.65% self-employment tax, and self-employed people pay 15.30%. For 2024, each employee and employer must pay a wage limit of $168,600 and a 6.2% Social Security tax. The Medicare tax rate for each employee and employer is 1.45%, with no wage limit. This tax will cost you less than you imagine as you deduct half of your self-employment tax from your net income. The IRS considers the employer’s self-employment tax as their business expenditures, and you can remove it according to it. So, business owners pay 92.35% of their total income, their total business income, rather than their gross credit rate.

Tax Obligations for Health Insurance Premiums

Self-employed people can pay health insurance premiums if they are not eligible for coverage through their spouse. In this way, you can deduct all your tips. This payment is to give the courage to your children (younger than twenty-seven at year-end), dependents, and spouse. You can evaluate the deduction using the Self-Employed Health Insurance Deduction Worksheet in the IRS publication. Also, you can deduct all of your qualified long-term care insurance premiums, including health and dental.

Meals

You must pay a tax on meals as significant business expenses, especially when traveling for business or entertaining clients. The meal’s tax deduction for business owners is around 50% of the actual price of the total feed. Remember to have a receipt with you. You can pay a standard meal allowance that can be 50%. That is why you must know the purpose of the travel, time, and place. In this case, you will not need your meal receipts.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

These days, social media has become a potent tool to garner potential customers and build brand loyalty. Some studies suggest that most people use social media for nearly two hours daily. Social media users can significantly impact your brand’s image in this digitally savvy world. Besides, users can decide which businesses they wish to follow and what type of content appeals to them.

So, if you want people to find and follow your brand on social media platforms, you need to create a targeted strategy to engage maximum users. In this guide, we’ll discuss some social media services you can use to top your competitors.

Agora Pulse 

Agora Pulse is an excellent service for social media management. It’ll help you schedule content for platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Besides, it is interactive and has dynamic features like generating detailed analytics reports for social media networks. You can also market new content quickly and run promotional campaigns directly from this service. And the best news is that they also offer a free trial period to new users. So, if you’re unsure whether to purchase this service, you can test it to see if it fits your requirements. 

Bitly 

If you want to find out who and how many people accessed your links in Facebook and Twitter posts, Bitly is the best social media service to get your hands on. Bitly is a link-tracking software and is relatively straightforward to use. When you track your followers, copy a live website link like your latest tweet, type it into the service, and get shortened links.

These links look clean and track a significant amount of valuable data automatically. Bitly helps you keep track of how your links are performing. It’ll also enable you to understand where and why people clicked. 

Quintly 

Quintly is another excellent social media service to help you track your social media performance. Google Analytics is excellent, too, but it’s not particularly helpful for social media analysis. Quintly allows you to benchmark your completion’s social media strategies, which is what you need to beat them back. It’ll provide you with crisp analytical reports to give you a crystal-clear idea about your progress. Quintly also comes with a 14-day trial that doesn’t require any billing information. How generous!

It has various remarkable features to help you navigate more easily. Like Google Analytics, it gives you a custom dashboard to link all your social media platforms. This makes it easier to monitor your performance. You can also set up a dashboard to compare your progress against your competitors. 

MeetEdgar

MeetEdgar is a versatile social media service that delivers content and is a dedicated content marketer without a full-time salary. It is a powerful automation tool responsible for repeatedly sharing your best-featured content. Just think of all the time it could save you every week. It keeps you from going through the hassle of digging up old but killer social media posts. It automatically shares your evergreen content on social media, driving new engagement. MeetEdgar works for all popular platforms.

LinkedIn Sales Navigator 

LinkedIn Sales Navigator is a powerful tool designed to empower B2B sales professionals in finding and connecting with high-quality leads on the LinkedIn platform. With advanced search filters and targeting options, Sales Navigator lets users pinpoint their ideal prospects based on industry, company size, job title, and location. Its personalized recommendations feature suggests potential leads tailored to the user’s preferences and previous interactions, streamlining the lead-generation process.

Moreover, Sales Navigator provides real-time insights and updates on lead activities, informing users about key developments and engaging with prospects at the right time. Through its integration with CRM systems and sales automation tools, Sales Navigator facilitates seamless lead management and conversion, ultimately helping businesses grow their revenue and expand their client base in the competitive B2B landscape.

Conclusion

So, these social media services you can utilize to beat back your competition. You must understand that social media is a potent tool to attract new customers to your business. You need to be on social media, but you can only spend a little time on it. Therefore, you must carefully curate an engagement strategy to retain your social media following. And this is where these social media services will come in handy. We hope you enjoyed reading this post and found it helpful to get ahead of your competitors and retain your customers. 

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, mastering the art of digital marketing is paramount for businesses striving to stay ahead of the curve. While advertising through search engines, optimizing landing pages, and crafting engaging social media campaigns are vital components of digital marketing, they represent only a fraction of the journey. The real challenge lies in understanding where to begin amidst the plethora of digital strategies and tools available. With the transformative power of digital marketing becoming increasingly evident, businesses must embrace this paradigm shift to attract new customers, retain existing ones, and enhance their brand image.

However, transitioning from traditional marketing to digital requires careful planning, meticulous analysis, and a deep understanding of consumer needs and technical capabilities. This comprehensive guide delves into the essentials of embarking on a successful digital marketing journey, from formulating effective strategies to implementing practical actions. Join us as we navigate the intricate realm of digital marketing and unlock the keys to sustainable success in the digital age.

Embarking on Digital Marketing: From Strategy to Implementation

Advertising or publicizing through a search engine, points of arrival, site improvement, and painstakingly arranged web-based life crusades are pieces of advanced advertising; however, they are not the initial steps. These are apparatuses and methodologies that will assist you with accomplishing your exercises more productively and successfully. Yet, at present, your need is beginning with those exercises.

Realizing that it is significant for your business, you feel incapacitated and on edge, yet you do not learn to begin. Consistently you are not stepping toward advanced; you could be missing business and affecting your drawn-out progress. However, if only you recognized what those means were, you would happily take them.

Few brands have developed a digital communication and sales strategy to attract new customers, retain current consumers, or improve their image with the public. Digital marketing has become a staple and concerns increased support, from computers to touchpads via mobile applications of smartphones and modern technologies such as augmented reality, virtual reality, or interactive furniture. The digital revolution brings significant advantages to small and large companies, not only in terms of budget but also in offering a complete experience to consumers.

However, moving from traditional marketing to digital marketing and implementing practical actions requires accurate prior reflection and an in-depth analysis of the company’s consumer needs, technical possibilities, and skills. This is essential to facing the dangers of digital marketing and understanding its ins and outs.

Brand Image and Communication Control

Consider and manage the activity of Internet users on social networks. Social media have become one of the critical tools for companies to communicate, unite, and build consumer loyalty. They effectively offer many possibilities thanks to an increasingly connected population that wishes to give its opinion, exchange with the brand and other community members, and feel heard.

However, digital transformation and these networks are a double-edged sword: they allow businesses to create a privileged link with their customers and give Internet users new power. When they are satisfied, the impact will, of course, be positive. On the other hand, if the customers are dissatisfied and wish to denounce certain practices or ask disturbing questions, they also have the possibility there. This is more dangerous for the brand, as their comments will be visible to everyone. 

Zara, among others, paid the price when she presented her new collection in 2014, with her striped top with an embroidered yellow star. It shocked internet users, who did not hesitate to share their thoughts quickly across networks. This controversy highlighted the importance of cultural sensitivity and awareness in fashion design and marketing, prompting discussions about the impact of cultural appropriation and the need for brands to be mindful of the messages conveyed by their products.

Strategies for Proactive Online Reputation Management

Keep a constant watch to find out what is being said on your social pages and in the media so that you can act before harmful content spreads.

Respond quickly to unflattering reviews and posts from each user to resolve the issue or reassure other consumers.

Remove defamatory or abusive comments, which do not add value, where specific negative comments can help you improve your products and services and strengthen the bond with the customer in the medium and long term.

Finally, brands must remain vigilant against false influencers, such as people who hold pages whose subscribers or views have been purchased or are not real. These fake influencers will not add value to the brand’s image since their audience is biased and only publishes content that is of little use.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

It is essential to know how to negotiate successfully or learn techniques that allow us to increase our sales. Learning to recognize when a theoretical deal is slipping from our hands and when we will have to put all the meat in the spit is also essential. Here are five everyday entrepreneur situations that should trigger all alarms.

Our Potential Client is Indifferent

A client interested in doing business with us should ask us questions, be curious, and express their concern in the less clear points. In this sense, our potential client doesn’t need to reject our proposal outright to understand that reaching an agreement will not be possible.

Observing how he does not ask us questions, barely intervenes in the conversation, or consents to everything we say will be enough. If so, let’s consider whether we should go forward or understand that we are not interested in what we say.

A Clear Deadline is Not Established When Deciding

For any commercial, closing a sale as soon as possible is vital. The longer a decision process takes, the more chances our prospective client will finally choose not to close the deal.

In this sense, establishing short deadlines and even encouraging quick decisions through discounts and special offers can effectively reduce time.

Negotiate With a Person Who Does Not Have Decision-making Power

Negotiating with a potential client begins with someone who does not have a high degree of responsibility within the company or has no power to decide on the matter that interests us.

It is perfectly normal and, in theory, does not have to mean anything negative. However, if, after some previous conversations, we cannot establish contact with the person with that capacity when making decisions, the time may come to consider if they are interested in us.

Our Price is Very High

One of the main objections we can find during the negotiation process is that our price is very high. They will tell us they can find a similar service and product at a lower price than our competition.

Suppose we’re not able to lower our margin. In that case, we must worry about offering added value, negotiating the payment terms, or offering a lower price in the first order in exchange for re-adjusting the price in a later one, assuring us that, yes, a minimum of orders.

Customers Ask for a Proposal Before Negotiating

Before sitting down to negotiate with us, if a potential client is asking us for a recommendation or, even more, the offer that we can provide, the chances that it is a “market study” are high.

In this case, the customer is comparing prices of several manufacturers, so it is not for more than we are the ones who take the first step and, before sending our proposal, ask about the criteria that will be considered beyond an adjusted price.

Since the customer is always right, try making realistic negotiations and proposals. If you focus on the profit, not what the customer wants or desires, you can experience considerable loss.

All in All

Remember that every customer is in a vulnerable situation when you are pitching. Your job is first to calm them down and make them trust you. It would be best if you pitched in relatable information. Always treat your customers the way you expect to be treated. Create a need, pitch them ideas, and make a sale.

If you miss any of those five points, it can be difficult to make a sale.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.