Superannuation

BUSINESS MAXIMS

A question of profits

Business Maxims Operating a business through a company can be a great idea when starting out. But the tax benefit can be outweighed when profits have built up.

Super savings total $1.5b over four years

Federal government to reduce what it gives to low and middle-income earners through super co-contribution from mid-2012.

FINANCE

Keeping your lenders in the loop

Tony Kaye Having a better relationship with your bank could save you if push comes to shove. Here's how to do it.

Can't pay the ATO? Don't do a runner

Max Newnham Often the first financial commitments that cash-strapped businesses ignore are payments due to the tax office.

We owe ourselves salaries

Business Maxims Q. Can we claim our salaries - which we don't have the money for - as a tax deduction?

BUSINESS MAXIMS

The ABCs of GST

Max Newnham When you own a business there are countless rules and regulations that must be met.

Business alert: no dividends in skipping super

Ruth Williams Small businesses struggling with tight cash flows have been warned not to fall behind on employee super payments

BUSINESS MAXIMS

How do I get rollover relief?

Max Newnham Q. I'm a physio doing home visits and need better equipment. Could I claim these under CGT rollover relief?

Mark Bouris

Profitability always a cash-22 situation

Mark Bouris Make sure you know your customers and be clear on what they look for from you.

Don't get caught without cover

Business Maxims There are many ways to own and operate a business. Some of them are simple, such as a sole trader or partnership, where the owner earns income as a share of profits.

Mark Bouris

Small and non-bank lenders worth a look

Mark Bouris The truth is that you can't influence a rate cut, but you can look for a better deal.

Mark Bouris

Marketing a matter of timing and target

Mark Bouris Mark Bouris answers letters to guide you through a marketing minefield.

Undervalued: why less is risking more

Christopher Niesche The increased cost of construction brought on by the carbon tax and the soft economic conditions mean many more small businesses are taking the risk of being underinsured, an insurance consultant...

BUSINESS MAXIMS

Tax tactics: maximise your return

Max Newnham Tax return time is approaching, so make sure you don't land yourself with a large bill.

Business Maxims

Not meeting super obligations can be an expensive mistake

Max Newnham Businesses who fail to pay their employees' superannuation properly face a raft of penalties and risk attracting the notice of the Fair Work Ombudsman.