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Expanding your Overseas Business in the USA

02-02-2010 11:16 AM

Most foreign-owned businesses expand their operations into the U.S. by establishing a branch office or an online presence. Both processes are very similar to starting a new business as any American citizen would, except for a few extra steps during registration and some special tax regulations. Read on to learn more about visa laws, import regulations, and other government services for foreign businesses expanding operations into the U.S. Read more...

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Dress Code Policies

01-25-2010 10:21 AM

Regardless of industry, almost all businesses with employees have some form of a dress code policy. When creating a dress code policy for your business, apply your policy equally to all employees. Unfair dress code policies are considered discriminatory and can be grounds for a lawsuit. Read more...

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How Do I Find an EIN?

01-19-2010 12:12 PM

Most businesses need an Employer Identification Number (EIN), also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number, from the IRS. If you misplaced your EIN, need to establish an EIN, or want to look up another business's EIN, read this guide for fast answers to your EIN questions. Read more...

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The Legal Steps to Buying a Business

01-13-2010 09:30 AM

There are important legal considerations to keep in mind when buying a business. Read this guide to understand what you can expect, and what to look out for when you’re in the market to purchase an existing business. Read more...

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Federal and State Laws that Govern Layaway Practices

12-28-2009 06:16 PM

Layaway plans typically require customers to pay a deposit, generally a percentage of the total price for an item, and make additional payments until the total cost is covered. Retailers agree to hold the item for the customer until the payment plan is complete, at which point they can take home their purchase. Read more...

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Starting a Business as a Former Inmate

12-21-2009 12:34 PM

Most former inmates believe that because of their status, they will not be allowed or able to find employment or start their own business. Fortunately, there are resources and opportunities available to assist former inmates in reentering the workforce. Check out this quick guide for more information. Read more...

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How to Become (And Stay) Self-Employed, According to the Law

12-17-2009 01:21 PM

Starting up as a self-employed business owner is not much different from starting any business - but there are a few important tax and benefit implications that apply to the self-employed. Learn more about when you're considered "self-employed," how to preserve your self-employed status, and other resources for this fast-growing business type. Read more...

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Drug-Free Workplaces: Employer Rights and Responsibilities

12-14-2009 08:18 PM

Most private employers have rights when it comes to testing for illegal substances in the workplace. Although employee drug testing is generally not required by law, if you choose to exercise your testing rights, you must comply with federal and state regulations that outline your responsibilities. Read more...

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Updated Labor Law Resources for Employers

12-10-2009 04:27 PM

The Department of Labor's Employment Law Guide was recently updated to address new- but important - changes in labor policy. Read more...

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Creating a Privacy Policy for Your Online Business

12-07-2009 02:17 PM

In the world of online business, privacy policies are a must. The increased frequency of identity theft, online fraud, and spamming all heighten customer insecurities when shopping online. A good privacy policy can be instrumental for business owners attempting to ease customer concerns and solidify their reputation as a trusted online retailer. Read more...

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How to Use Contests, Sweepstakes, and Giveaways as Marketing Tools - While Staying Within the Law

12-03-2009 02:59 PM

In a tough economy, small businesses need to get creative in order to stretch marketing dollars. Contents, sweepstakes, and giveaways are a popular methods, but there are several consumer protection rules that you should familiarize yourself with before you begin any promotions. Read more...

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Free Workplace Safety Handbook for Small Businesses

11-30-2009 12:13 PM

The OSHA Small Business Handbook was created to help small business employers understand occupational health and safety laws. The guide was recently revised to incorporate feedback from small businesses, including self-inspection checklists. Read more...

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Made in the USA Labels: Information for Manufacturers, Retailers, and Consumers

11-23-2009 03:32 PM

While it may seem appealing to stretch the meaning of "American-made," the Federal Trade Commission holds the power to enforce laws against businesses that make false or misleading claims about a product's U.S origin. Read more...

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New Export Resource Features Industry- and Region-Specific Opportunities

11-19-2009 11:30 AM

For small businesses, exporting can pave a path of expansion and growth. Starting up may seem daunting, but with the rise of the Internet and enhanced trade rules it is now easier than ever to become a successful seller abroad. A new Export Program Guide offers support and assistance for new exporters, or those thinking of their overseas operations. Read more...

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Small Business Insurance: Protect Your Business with the Proper Coverage

11-16-2009 03:53 PM

For almost every risk your business faces, there is an insurance policy that will cover it. But what's required and what isn't? Check out this quick guide for a better understanding of business insurance requirements. Read more...

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Resolving Business Conflicts – Options Beyond the Court Room

11-12-2009 03:42 PM

Heading to court to resolve business conflicts can be costly, time consuming, and even damage your business’s reputation. If you’re facing disputes with an employee, customer, vendor, or partner, you have conflict resolution options beyond litigation. Read more...

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What’s Cooking? Food Preparation Options for Home-Based Food Businesses

11-09-2009 01:54 PM

If you're starting a food-based home business, you have several options when it comes to the food preparations. Check out this quick guide to help you navigate the laws on commercial kitchens, co-packing arrangements, and home kitchen conversions. Read more...

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The Truth Behind Unpaid Internships

11-05-2009 12:25 PM

Unpaid internships are not illegal, but there are very strict guidelines that employers must adhere to. Even if a student worker receives academic credit for an internship, it does not mean that can they work for free. Read on to learn when an internship can be unpaid and how to stay within the law when employing student workers. Read more...

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Business Visas 101: Temporary and Permanent Business Travel

11-02-2009 01:19 PM

Many small businesses chose to operate with foreign partners, investors, or workers in some capacity. Before you start booking plane tickets there are travel and immigration laws that you must consider. Any non-U.S. citizen or resident who wishes to legally participate in business related activities in the United States will require a visa - a document attached to a passport that gives permission to apply to enter the United States. Read more...

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Hurt on the Job: An Employer's Action Plan for Workplace Injuries

10-29-2009 02:41 PM

As an employer, you have a responsibility to maintain a safe work environment, but accidents can happen even in the safest of workplaces. If one of your employees becomes injured on the job, do you have a plan? Read more...

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How to Avoid a Bad Business Partnership – And Your Options if You Find Yourself in One

10-26-2009 03:28 PM

A business partnership is like a marriage - it takes a lot of hard work to keep it together, but if done correctly, can be very rewarding. Follow this quick guide for tips on how to keep your partnership healthy and what your options are if things take a turn for the worse. Read more...

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Can a Homeowners' Association Ban Your Home-Based Business?

10-22-2009 01:39 PM

If you live in a planned residential neighborhood or complex, your business activities may be restricted to your Homeowners' Association (HOA) Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&R) rules. CC&Rs are designed to protect the community’s collective property value by prohibiting undesirable activities. Common CC&R rules enforce particular paint colors, landscaping arrangements, or ban the installation of satellite devices – but they can also have a serious impact on your home-based business. Read more...

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Should Your Small Business Go Public? Consider the Benefits and Risks of Becoming a Publicly Traded Company

10-19-2009 01:39 PM

Are you thinking of taking your business public? Before you decide to attempt the transition, check out this quick guide to understand the who, what, where, when, and why of going public. Read more...

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What is Considered a "Tipped Employee"? Guidelines on Tip Credits, Pools, Service Charges and More

10-15-2009 12:53 PM

Pay practices and resources for employers of tipped workers. Read more...

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All About Domain Names

10-12-2009 06:10 PM

Online businesses have become extremely popular in that last few years. While many steps of starting an online business are the same as those for a traditional business, several additional requirements are necessary to create your website. To understand the basics of starting your website, you must understand what a domain name is, how to select one, and how to register it. Read more...

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Bloggers and Social Media Users Must Disclose Freebies, Comps, and Paid Endorsements Under New FTC Rules

10-08-2009 02:58 PM

The FTC announced new advertising guidance on product endorsements in blog posts, chat rooms and other social media web sites, and message boards. Read on to find out what the new rules mean to you Read more...

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Consumer Credit Law: An Introduction to the Fair Credit Billing Act

10-05-2009 01:24 PM

It's a safe assumption that at some point your small business will have to rely on personal or business credit cards to operate. If you find an error on one of your account bills, it is important to know your rights as a consumer. The Fair Credit Billing Act exists in order to protect consumers from lasting damage as a result of possible credit account errors. Read more...

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Need a Lawyer? How to Find Legal Representation for Your Small Business

10-01-2009 05:48 PM

Whether you find yourself grappling with an employment issue, sparring with a business partner, or just need some guidance on filing the proper paperwork, you may need to turn to a small business lawyer. For some tips on how to find a good small business lawyer, read on… Read more...

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Before You Sign: Quick Tips for Understanding the Terms of a Commercial Lease

09-28-2009 12:05 PM

Small businesses often need to lease commercial space to operate - whether in a standalone brick-and-mortar store, a booth at a flea market, a floor in a commercial building, etc. Because most people feel comfortable renting residential property, they may not be aware of a few important factors to consider when leasing commercial property. Before you sign a commercial lease for your business, make sure you understand what you're getting yourself into. Read more...

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Employer's Guide to Discrimination: Fair Wages and The Equal Pay Act

09-24-2009 05:30 PM

The Equal Pay Act of 1963 was established to prevent gender-based wage discrimination. Today, we still hear statistics about this form of workplace discrimination, as women earn roughly three-quarters of their male counterparts' salaries. As an employer, are you practicing fair wage practices? Check out these frequently asked questions about compensation discrimination Read more...

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Trade Names and Trademarks - What's the Difference...	7
Becoming a Street Vendor... Where do I start?	5
Re: Federal Law Prohibits Showing Credit Card Numb...	5
How Do I Find an EIN?	5
Starting a Business in the U.S. as a Foreign Natio...	5

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