Here is an article I like that focuses on women and how they have to take their financial life seriously. Taking responsibility for your finances and planning will only help in the long run:http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2011/11/06/2748407/women-told-to-overcome-financial.htmlThere are a lot of circumstances where the ladies are going to have to take charge. It makes sense to have someone who is professional enough to help you through things. Call me or email me and we can discuss some professionals I know who cen help.
Brian’s Tax Musings
Well the Employment Development Department, who deals with all California payroll taxes, has decided what the percentage and wage limitation for State Disability Insurance will be for 2012. This will definitely surprise you, because the rate is going down, even if the maximum is going up. See this flash announcement by Spidell Tax Services:https://www.magnetmail.net/actions/email_web_version.cfm?recipient_id=654422898&message_id=1616912&user_id=Spidell&group_id=739139&jobid=7896282Wow who would have thought California would ever reduce any taxes?
Brian’s General Musings
This is kind of both a general, financial and tax musing. It is about how I feel is the best way to bill for my services. I have always advocated a billing structure based on setting up services as ‘projects’ then billing a flat fee for each of those projects. I have never liked billing on an hourly basis – clients sometimes feel you are spending more time to ‘pad’ the bill. I would rather calculate the fee for the project using my experience and including all services (including telephone time) in the fee. The fee is what it is and I know what I am receiving for my work, plus the client can budget based on what is to be paid. Accountants sometimes get a ‘taxi driver’ mentality (start the meter when you get in the cab) which I feel does nothing to promote the profession or satisfy their clientele. Here is an article about this:http://www.accountingtoday.com/news/Accountants-Move-Toward-Value-Pricing-Model-60705-1.htmlThis results in your clients knowing what to expect and many will recommend you to their friends and associates.